Culture Attractions

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• Mitai Maori Village

  An evening at Mitai will give you an authentic introduction to Maori culture leaving you amazed and in awe. Enter the world of Mitai. Be enthralled by the natural bush setting, see warriors in traditional dress paddle an ancient warrior canoe (waka) down the Wai-o-whiro stream, and don't miss your only opportunity in the Rotorua area to see glow worms in their natural habitat. Marvel at the crystal clear water full of eels and trout, flowing directly from the earth at the sacred Fairy Spring. See your traditionally cooked hangi meal being lifted from the ground. During our cultural performance, you'll learn about our past, carvings and ta moko (tattoo art). Be captivated by the displays of weaponry and combat, coupled with the grace and beauty of the poi dance. You'll be amazed by the spine tingling haka finale. The Mitai family is proud to have created a sacred and spiritual place that offers you an indigenous cultural experience like no other. More info...

  

• Tarawera Legacy

  Follow in the path of the Tuhourangi people a sub-tribe of Te Arawa, from their arrival to Rotorua through to the devastating 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera. In this moving story of strength, courage and resilience you will encounter legendary Tuhourangi ancestors, discover their warm culture and traditions, and become part of the dramatic event that changed the course of history for the Rotorua region. Experience the violent eruption of Mt Tarawera at Rotorua Museum Explore the excavated site of Te Wairoa at Buried Village Meet descendants of the survivors of the eruption at Whakarewarewa, the living thermal village. More info...

  

• Te Puia

  Experience a personal encounter with our people, our culture and our place. Rising from the geothermal valley above mud pools and steam vents is Te Puia - the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute and home of the famous Pohutu geyser. Take a journey into the heart of Maori culture; share the stories, songs and hospitality of Te Whakarewarewa Valley and its people, or simply wander and discover the treasures of this special place. Visitors can immerse themselves in the award winning interactive galleries - Nga Waru Pu Manawa and Te Whare Tapere - and see artists at work in the renowned carving and weaving schools. More info...

  

• The Chronicles of Uitara - JOURNEY OF AGES

  We are led by the storyteller through this 3.5 hour evening encounter. Share in ancient ceremonies of welcome and farewell and experience the lifestyles and warrior traditions of pre-European times. Journey of Ages tells the story of Uitara IV's campaign for a place within a rebel warrior cult, destined to change Aotearoa forever. Culminating in a traditional farewell feast of earth-cooked hangi, as Uitara and other characters you have met prepare to leave with their new found leader. An amazing re-enactment, based on actual events from our history with real characters, authentic arts, crafts and powerful song and dance. More info...