Celebrating Shared Voyages for Waitangi Day 2026

Anchored in history and guided by stars, today’s Waitangi Day Doodle was created by Kiwi artist Morgan Darlison of Kaitiaki Studios, reflecting our shared histories of migration and voyage to Aotearoa’s shores.

“We all came under the same stars and across the same ocean,” explains Morgan. “This artwork represents the wairua (spirit) of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi), as we move toward a better future with mutual respect and safety for all - especially for the next generation.”

The Doodle, in commemoration of Te Tiriti o Waitangi signed on February 6, 1840, depicts beautifully drawn elements of shared cultural navigation techniques:

• The ‘G’ holds a Kūaka bird (bar-tailed godwit) that undertakes a significant migration from Northern Alaska returning annually, connecting to the idea of Pacific migration routes that would have been followed on journeys to New Zealand.
• Alongside, the ‘o’s hold a western-style compass and a map of Aotearoa New Zealand.
• Below the "g," is a pūnga (anchor), which represents the story of landing and putting down roots, intentionally tethered to the "l" to convey a sense of settling.
• The "l" includes a Pacific motif, symbolising the dispersal of people across the Pacific during the journey and the shared collective histories and similar cultures of the region.
• The final "e" contains a whai (stingray), symbolising Pacific migration journeys, and species seen along the way. Whai also symbolise kaitiakitanga, representing the idea of having someone look after you on your journey.

In the creative process, Morgan began with concepts before letting her hand take over and the creative expression flow onto the page. Having started as a pencil and paper artist in Ōtautahi Christchurch, Morgan’s formal arts education truly began once she found her place at Toihoukura in Gisborne. Morgan has been involved in varied areas such as spatial design, corporate design and branding, commissions of visual art, interiors range, workshops and community projects. Having been mentored locally by many tohunga in different industries, Morgan’s personal style is characterised by very detailed work, fine lines, feminine themes, and a preference for single-colour compositions.

Google has celebrated Waitangi Day through a Google Doodle since 2018 with each year's artwork offering a unique perspective on te Tiriti and current context. From revitalising language in the digital age to sharing our rich histories on a global stage, by integrating te ao Māori into our technology and elevating local artists, we aim to honour Aotearoa’s unique legacy.