Wellington to celebrate Waitangi at One Love

Waitangi Day will be celebrated in style in Wellington, with the tenth annual One Love concert set for the Hataitai Velodrome tomorrow.

With the weather forecast predicting all-day sun with a gentle southwest breeze, organiser Dave Gibbons said that One Love was set to provide a great day out for Wellingtonians on Waitangi Day.

“What better way than to spend the national day with good music, great weather and thousands of your mates,” he said.

“We started this event ten years ago to provide an alternative to the politics and apathy that coloured the national day. I thought there was a better way to celebrate unity, peace and respect for all – and that was to throw a big party!

“Bring a blanket to sit on, a hamper and refreshments and soak up the sun and good vibes on Waitangi Day,” he said.

People attending One Love can bring their own alcohol as long as it is not contained in glass, continuing the same policy for the past ten years. The no-glass policy will be strictly enforced. A cash bar and food stalls will be provided.

Headline acts include House of Shem, Olmecha Supreme, Home Fire Burning and Adi Dick, with DJ support from Ras Twig, Topknot and Carlito.

There are plans for the performers to lead the crowd in singing a classic Bob Marley song between 3.30 and 4pm.

“It’s a bit of a tradition in New Zealand to have a sing-along to celebrate unity, so we thought we’d give it a crack on a grand scale,” said Mr Gibbons. “Last year 17,000 people came to One Love so this could be a giant Bob Marley karaoke!”

ENDS

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