Photo By Lt. Col. Timothy Johnson | Soldiers of the New Zealand Defence Force prepare traditional New Zealand cuisine to...... read more read more
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CAMP TAJI, Iraq- On February 6, the New Zealand Contingent of Task Group Taji invited all personnel at Camp Taji to join them in their celebration of Waitangi Day.
“Being able to learn about other country’s culture is one of the unique benefits of serving with coalition forces” said Maj. Matthew Krieter, 108th Sustainment Brigade. “It’s amazing to see the passion each contingent has for their heritage.”
The Waitangi Day celebration began with the New Zealand Contingent welcoming base personnel to a Powhiri or traditional welcome ceremony.
“Today we celebrate what it is to be New Zealand; to be Kiwi.” Lt. Col. Darren Beck, New Zealand Army said. “Waitangi day is celebrated on the 6th of February each year. It was this day in 1840 that the Treaty of Waitangi was signed by representatives of the British Crown and a majority of Māori chiefs.”
The New Zealand Contingent arranged a day of cultural displays, sports, games and a meal of traditional foods from New Zealand.
“The New Zealand Army has adopted the Māori warrior fighting spirit which is interwoven into our everyday activity.” said Beck. “Today we will perform the New Zealand Defense Force haka.”
“The highlight for me was getting to see the performance of the haka.” said Maj. Brian Pranske, 108th Sustainment Brigade. “I will probably never have a chance to visit New Zealand so I’m glad I was able to be a part of this.”
| Date Taken: | 02.06.2019 |
| Date Posted: | 02.12.2019 01:53 |
| Story ID: | 310239 |
| Location: | IQ |
| Web Views: | 141 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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