Cultural Activities

Rotorua is an area steeped in Maori history and cultural significance - no visit to Rotorua is complete without an exploration of the rich Maori culture. The Te Arawa tribe have been welcoming and guiding visitors through this geothermal wonderland for over 160 years.

Visit the popular Tamaki Maori village, a detailed replica of a pre-european Maori village set deep within the forest, where you will receive a traditional welcome, experience real cultural ceremonies, hear legends and stories, enjoy traditional Maori song and dance and feast on a hangi (traditional maori meal, cooked in an earth oven). Tamaki Maori Village picks guests up from our park and will drop you off after your excellent three-and-a-half hour evening experience.

Te Puia

The Te Puia complex also offers a multitude of Maori experience. See the massive Pohutu geyser erupt up to 30 metres into the air, marvel at the Ngamokaiakoko mudpool as it bubbles at around 95 degrees Celsius, walk through a recreated Maori village and view New Zealand's national bird, the endangered Kiwi. Observe the traditional art of weaving in the Te Rito weaving house, be entranced by a fully-carved meeting house (one of the few in New Zealand open to everyone) and see master carvers at work at the Te Puia carving school. The Te Puia Caf has everything from hangi lunch baskets to traditional New Zealand ice creams and there is also an excellent gallery and gift store onsite.

Buried Village

Step back in time at Buried Village - the excavated site of Te Wairoa village, buried by ash, mud and lava by the eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886. Buried Village is a fascinating look into Maori life as it was hundreds of years ago. Stroll around scenic pathways that link each excavated site, wander amongst lush native bush and view the magnificent Wairere Falls. Tours are available daily, guided by descendants of Tuhourangi, the original inhabitants of Te Wairoa. The Museum of Te Wairoa takes visitors on an emotional journey telling the fascinating story of the village, the voyages to the Pink and White Terraces and the eruption of Mt Tarawera - New Zealand's largest
natural disaster.

Mokoia Island

Take a journey across Lake Rotorua to Mokoia Island - a sacred island to the Te Arawa people - where you are formally welcomed by the tribe and entertained with traditional song and dance as you feast on an indigenous-style dinner. Breakfast cruises and foods-trail-and-tasting cruises are also available.

The Realm of Tane

The Realm of Tane is a brilliant one-hour experience. It is part guided tour, part character theatre that traces the powerful story of one young Maori person's journey to connect with their heritage. Dynamic use of technology moves you through the different time periods. You will also move across five different spaces including an indoor native garden, cave, meeting house and theatre. Taste native plants and enjoy more interactivity along the way.

There are a number of other companies who can immerse you in many aspects of the Maori culture and we are happy to recommend those experiences that suit your budget, your style and how much time you have.