The fuel crisis and economic downturn has hit the birthplace of modern New Zealand after a caféat the treaty grounds was forced to close.
Whare Waka, the eatery at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Paihia, served its last manaakitanga on May 12, to the dismay of locals.
Part of the grounds since the 1970s, it was refurbished in 2011, and was open to visitors and public as well as hosting hangis, weddings and other events.
Locals said on social media it would be “sadly missed,” praising the “wonderful food and service.”
“It’s very alarming that places like these are closing down...it’s hitting every business...sign of the times,” one person said.
