The Big 9 Kahungunu Waitangi Day Celebrations 175

Kia ora and welcome to the 175th anniversary of Waitangi Day. This free event will attract thousands to a showcase of nine food, sports, arts and music events at the spectacular 30 hectare Hawke's Bay Sports Park in Hastings from 8am to 4pm.

There's something for everyone .

There's no better way to experience the soul of a region than through it's food at "Bite of the Bay". Foodies can try an array of delicious kiwi and international kai for all tastes.

A multicultural concert from 10am features Scottish and belly dancing to hip hop and country dancing. Two local kapa haka teams competing at the national Te Matatini Festival in Christchurch later in the month will perform. Local bands and soloists will round off the schedule of performances.

International rising star Sammy Johnson takes the stage at 2.45pm with a fusion of reggae, hip hop. and RnB. There's a chance for locals to have 'selfies' with Sammy at 1.45pm under the paua inflatable archway.

Seven sporting codes have organised volleyball, touch, 3 on 3 basketball, netball, hockey and Ki Orahi tournaments in the morning. A new addition is a Rugby League clinic for youngsters from 5 to 12 years old.

Free kiddies rides all day on the giant slide, obstacle course and bouncy castles.

There's a world-class covered 2500 seat grandstand providing all day weather protection plus 60 toilets for comfort and convenience and free on site parking for 1,000 vehicles..

Everyone is welcome to come along to enjoy New Zealand's national day celebrations.

The event is funded by Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi, Hastings District Council, Ministry for Culture & Heritage, Te Puni Kōkiri and Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga.