Click on the picture to find out more about Sea Weel and the Young Ocean explorers

Click on the picture to find out more about Sea Week.

During the late 18th century and early 19th century there was increasing  interaction between Māori and Europeans trading in a range of homegrown and imported commodities. 

This activity created great profits for entrepreneurs on both sides. While valuing their developing global connections Māori were intent on self determination of their affairs.  

In support of this, in 1835, a group of Northern tribal leaders sought an alliance gaining protection from King William IV that became known as He Whakaputanga. 

The British Resident James Busby requested that Missionary Henry Williams facilitate the drafting of this document which became He Whakaputanga o te Rangatiratanga o Nu Tireni, and was signed by iwi leaders throughout Northland, Waikato and from Ngāti Kahungunu. 

It is important to note that this treaty was formally acknowledged by the British, it declared Māori sovereignty and that the British would never give law-making powers to anyone else.