He Tohu at National Library of New Zealand

Opposite the New Zealand Parliament buildings stands Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa National Library. Inside you’ll find He Tohu — a permanent exhibition housing some of New Zealand’s most important documents.

Visitors can enter He Tohu for free and view original versions of three constitutional documents that have helped shape Aotearoa.

Te Tiriti o Waitangi , signed in 1840, is the founding agreement between Māori and the Crown. The treaty has often been hotly debated, and at times ignored or broken, but it remains a source of hope and optimism for Aotearoa’s future. It is displayed facing toward the doors of parliament across the road, to constantly challenge its agreement.

He Tohu is also home to the 1893 Women’s Suffrage Petition, Te Petihana Whakamana Pōti Wahine. This document led to New Zealand becoming the first country in the world where women gained the right to vote in general elections. 

It’s also where you can view the He Whakaputanga — Declaration of Independence. This hugely important document was how rangatira told the world in 1835 that New Zealand was an independent Māori nation.

These taonga are under the care of Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga Archives New Zealand. They are kept in He whakapapa kōrero a beautifully hand-crafted room designed to protect and enhance the mana of the precious documents it holds.

He Tohu features interactive exhibits. He Whenua Kura, gives uri (descendants) and visitors a chance to learn more about the history surrounding the documents. You can also search for tohu (signatures) of ancestors.

He Tohu is part of Te Kahu Heritage Campus. This includes Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa National Library and Te Rua Archives New Zealand. These buildings are joined by Te Hono (the bridge). Entry is free, and there are audio and guided tours available on request.