New Zealand set to cancel Jacinda Ardern’s Waitangi Day BBQ amid security concerns

The annual event likely won't be going ahead in 2023 amid growing concerns that radical fringe groups are transforming the country's security environment

Jacinda Ardern's much-loved Waitangi Day ritual of hosting a barbecue breakfast for the public will likely be off the menu in 2023 due to security concerns, as New Zealand deals with increased threats and harassment of politicians.

Since 2018, Ardern, her family and government ministers have donned aprons and wielded tongs to cook a free barbecue for all who brave the early wake-up for a dawn service on the country's national founding holiday, at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds in Paihia.