Cultural Experiences Guide

Say Hi to NZ with all things Maori!

Māori culture is an integral part of New Zealand’s identity, and engaging with it offers

travelers a unique and enriching experience. For the most authentic and respectful experience, follow local customs, participate actively, and engage with Māori guides and communities.

Auckland

Te Pā Tū 

• Overview: A cultural experience that immerses visitors in traditional Māori life through performances, storytelling, and a hangi (traditional feast).

• Activities: Cultural performances, interactive workshops, traditional feast.

• Website: Te Pā Tū

Auckland Museum - Māori Gallery

• Overview: Features extensive exhibits on Māori history, art, and artifacts.

• Activities: Museum tours, exhibitions on Māori art and history.

• Website: Auckland Museum

Te Wao Nui at Auckland Zoo

• Overview: Offers insights into Māori wildlife and conservation practices in a zoo setting.

• Activities: Guided tours with a focus on Māori perspectives on wildlife.

• Website: Auckland Zoo

Rotorua

Te Puia

• Overview: Home to Māori cultural performances, traditional crafts, and geothermal features.

• Activities: Whakarewarewa Village tours, tours of Māori Arts & Crafts Institute, cultural performances, kiwi house.

• Located in Te Whakarewareawa Geothermal Valley (they share the Pohutu Geyser and steam vents)

• Website: Te Puia

Mitai Māori Village

• Overview: Offers an evening of traditional Māori entertainment, including a hangi feast and cultural performances.

• Activities: Hangi dinner, traditional performances, and storytelling.

• Website: Mitai Māori Village

Whakarewarewa - The Living Māori Village

• Overview: A living Māori village with geothermal activity, cultural performances, and guided tours.

• Activities: Village tours, geothermal site visits, Māori cultural shows.

• Website: Whakarewarewa

Wellington

Wellington Museum

• Overview: Offers exhibits and displays related to Māori culture and history.

• Activities: Guided tours, educational programs on Māori history.

• Website: Wellington Museum - Museums Wellington

Te Papa Tongarewa

• Overview: New Zealand’s national museum with extensive Māori exhibits, including the renowned “Te Papa” collection.

• Activities: Interactive exhibits, cultural workshops, and guided tours.

• Website: Te Papa Tongarewa

Zealandia

• Overview: A wildlife sanctuary that includes Māori cultural elements and the history of New Zealand’s natural environment.

• Activities: Guided tours focusing on Māori connections to the land and conservation efforts.

• Website: Zealandia

Christchurch

Canterbury Museum

• Overview: Features Māori artifacts and exhibits that provide insights into Māori culture and history.

• Activities: Museum tours, educational programs on Māori culture.

• Website: Canterbury Museum

Ko Tāne Māori Experience

• Overview: Offers a range of Māori cultural experiences, including performances, storytelling, and a traditional feast.

• Activities: Māori cultural performances, guided tours, and interactive sessions.

• Website: Ko Tāne Māori Experience

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

• Overview: Includes Māori cultural elements in its wildlife tours, focusing on conservation and Māori traditions.

• Activities: Wildlife tours with insights into Māori perspectives on native species.

• Website: Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Queenstown

Shotover Jet Māori Cultural Experience

• Overview: Combines high-adrenaline jet boating with Māori cultural elements and storytelling.

• Activities: Jet boating with Māori cultural insights.

• Website: Shotover Jet

Queenstown Gardens

• Overview: Includes Māori-themed gardens and art installations that reflect Māori cultural elements.

• Activities: Self-guided tours of Māori-themed garden features.

• Website: Queenstown Gardens

General Tips for Engaging with Māori Culture

Respect and Sensitivity

• Be aware of and respect local customs and protocols, especially during formal ceremonies or on marae.

• Always ask for permission before taking photographs or participating in cultural activities.

Engage with Authentic Experiences

• Cultural Tours: Choose tours and experiences led by Māori guides or organizations to ensure authenticity and cultural respect.

• Engage with local Māori to learn more about their traditions, stories, and perspectives.

Learn Basic Māori Phrases

• Basic Language Skills: Learning a few Māori phrases can show respect and enhance your cultural experience.