Maori Culture in Rotorua

Rotorua is the Heartland of Maori culture and the spirit and heritage of local Maori enriches the region as surely as the geothermal activity enlivens it. Ngati Whakaue, the name of the local tribe, arrived in Aoteroa New Zealand, aboard the waka (canoe), Te Arawa. The people are often called Te Arawa, for the name of the mighty waka that brought Tamatekapua, the leader of the tribe, and his people to Ohinemutu on the bank of Lake Rotorua. Note: Te Arawa is often used to describe the extended tribe descended from Tamatekapua. Ngati Whakaue is just one of these. The hospitality and generosity of the Ngati Whakaue people goes right back to early European visits when the tribe became the very first guides to the magnificent natural wonders of their homeland. This warm and welcoming attitude is alive in the local people today and Rotorua is a tourist destination with a tradition of expressive joy and energy in sharing the rich culture and lush landscape. There are ample opportunities to witness the deeply moving expressions of Maori Culture in Rotorua. Legends, stories and history come to us through an abundance of creative medias; music, art, carvings, poi dancing and the famous Haka.

See a complete list of Rotorua Maori activities.
This week's featured Maori cultural activities in Rotorua are:

Featured Maori Cultural Activities

Mitai Maori Village Maori - Rotorua Welcome to Mitai Maori village in Rotorua. An evening at Mitai will give you an authentic introduction to Maori culture leaving you amazed and in awe. 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...

Te Puia - Guided Tour Maori - Rotorua Nau Mai, Haere Mai. Welcome to Te Puia, New Zealand's premier Maori culture and geothermal visitor experience. Te Puia offers you, through our people, our art and our many onsite experiences, an opportunity to sense our history and feel our living culture. You will also experience the wonders of Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, our foundation as New Zealand's most iconic tourist attraction. More...