It’s one thing to travel to a new place and explore the beaches and landscapes, but it’s when you get to know the people and the history of a place that you can really start to identify and understand the world that we live in.
New Zealand is a land that is rich with culture. More specifically, it’s rich with the culture of the Maori. Arriving in New Zealand over 1000 years ago, these Indigenous people are at the centre of New Zealand’s culture. Today, over 1 in 7 people in New Zealand identify as Maori, and sharing their traditions, values, and beliefs is highly important to them.
Here are some different ways that you can delve into Maori culture on your visit to New Zealand
1) Tamaki Maori Village
Take a step back in time and visit a recreated traditional Maori village to discover what life was like before pre-European contact. Located just south of Rotorua, Tamaki Maori Village immerses it’s visitors in an interactive experience that puts them right in the centre of Maori culture.
From the second you step into the village, you will be welcomed with a whakatau ceremony, after which you can enjoy some traditional Maori food with stories, songs, and performing arts. Whether you choose to visit during the day or at night, Tamaki Maori Village is an educational and exciting experience that the whole family can enjoy.
2) Visit Rotorua
If you’re looking to dive into the traditional customs, practises, and beliefs of the Maori people, there’s no place better to do it than Rotorua. Home to Maori tribes for over 300 years, there are plenty of different ways that you can learn about culture in this unique city. Take a guided walking tour, paddle a carved waka (traditional canoe) down Lake Rotorua, learn to dance with poi, or explore the geothermal valley of Te Puia. However, you decide to spend your time in Rotorua, you will be surrounded by Maori culture wherever you go.
3) Explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Not too far from Rotorua you will find the magnificent Glowworm Caves of Waitomo. One of the most amazing and beautiful natural attractions in the world, this tour will take you on a boat ride though “glow worm grotto” where you will feel like you have been immersed in a completely different universe.
Be amazed as the cave walls light up around you, while at the same time listening to the stories and history of the cave as described by your tour guide - who is likely the direct descendant of the Maori Chief.
If you’re seeking culture combined with adventure, the glowworm caves is the perfect tour for you.
4) Book a Homestay in a Whare
There are few better ways to get to know Maori culture than spending some time with the Maori people themselves. And with your own personal Homestay in a traditional “whare”, you can do just that.
At Moanarua Beach Cottage, you can spend the night in your own private whare, while spending the day interacting with your hosts Miria and Taroi, descendants of the Ngati Awa and Tuhoe Tribes.
Described as a romantic getaway perfect for couples, this Homestay opportunity not only allows you to familiarise yourself with Maori culture, but also immerse yourself in it as you get to know the hosts on a more personal level.
5) Indulge in traditional Maori cuisine at Kohutapu Lodge
At the heart of any culture is their food. And while you can try different Maori cuisines throughout New Zealand, there aren’t many places that you can go for a traditional ground-cooked Hangi meal.
Of course, we wouldn’t leave you hanging - so we have just the place! At Kohutapu Lodge in Murupara, you can enjoy a delicious meal cooked on an underground oven heated by stones and covered by wet sacks and dirt. The result is smoky, earthy flavours in a healthful dish that is unrivalled by other cooking methods.
But indigenous meals aren’t the only cultural experience you can enjoy at Kohutapu Lodge.
The lodge also offers a variety of Maori tours and activities including haka lessons, nighttime eel fishing, and a guided walking tour through the Jurassic rainforest.
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