Manea Footprints of Kupe

North Island

Manea Footprints Of Kupe

from

NZ$75

per adult

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Māori guide delivering a cultural welcome beside a carved wooden figure during a Manea tour in Northland

Experiences

History and Māori Culture

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

North Island

Start: Opononi, Hokianga

Locations: 3 See all

Duration: 90 minutes

Details

Explore the Legacy of Kupe in Hokianga

At Manea Footprints of Kupe, the stories of Aotearoa’s first great voyager are brought vividly to life. Visitors are welcomed with a traditional pōwhiri, setting the tone for a moving and immersive encounter. Guided by Kupe’s own descendants, you’ll gain insight into Māori history and the spiritual ties that connect people to this sacred land.

The experience blends ancient storytelling with heartfelt performances of waiata and karakia. Each moment draws you deeper into the Māori worldview, highlighting the strength and unity of the community. By the end of the journey, you’ll feel a genuine connection to Kupe’s enduring spirit and his profound influence on Aotearoa.

Family exploring the intricately carved wooden entrance arch at Manea: Footprints of Kupe, Hokianga

Family engaging with carved wooden pou at the Manea cultural centre outdoor concourse in Northland

Māori performers presenting a traditional welcome with Hokianga Harbour in the background at Manea Lookout in Northland

Large group photo taken at Manea Lookout with Hokianga Harbour and sand dunes in the background

Māori guide leading a walking tour and sharing stories with two visitors at Manea cultural centre in Northland

Performer holding a traditional net in front of a large digital projection during a show at Manea 4D Theatre in Northland

Performer at Manea Footprints of Kupe holding a woven kete in front of a projected ancestral figure in Hokianga

Performer wearing a traditional Māori kakahu during a cultural dance at Manea Footprints of Kupe in Hokianga

Group of Māori performers expressing traditional haka and facial gestures at Manea Footprints of Kupe in Hokianga

Performer in traditional attire on stage with smoke effects during a Māori cultural show at Manea 4D Theatre

Māori performers with traditional paddles on stage during a 4D theatre reenactment of Kupe’s journey at Manea

Performers dancing in front of a digital projection at the Manea 4D Theatre during an immersive Māori storytelling experience

Two visitors using headphones to engage with an interactive cultural exhibit at Manea in Northland

Empty red theatre seating and stage setup at the Manea 4D Theatre in Northland

A Cultural Experience Like No Other

Inside the gallery, a mesmerising combination of art, taonga, and interactive exhibits invites visitors to explore Māori heritage in a personal way. The 20-minute 4D movie fuses visual storytelling with sensory effects, creating an unforgettable depiction of Kupe’s voyage. It’s an experience that both educates and inspires.

Step outside to the serene concourse and take in the beauty of Hokianga’s natural landscape. Developed by local kaumātua, Manea Footprints of Kupe serves as a living testament to Māori culture and pride. This unique attraction offers a heartfelt celebration of history, identity, and the timeless legacy of Kupe.

INCLUSIONS

Guided Cultural Experience: Enjoy a tour led by Kupe’s descendants, featuring authentic storytelling, waiata (songs), and karakia (prayers), as well as a pōwhiri (welcome ceremony).
Interactive and Immersive Activities: Participate in a 20-minute 4D movie and live theatre performance, and explore the Footprints of Kupe Interactive Gallery with digital stations for deeper storytelling.
Relaxing Surroundings: Take time to enjoy the serene outdoor concourse space, offering a peaceful connection to Hokianga’s natural beauty.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Duration and Schedule: The experience lasts approximately 90 minutes. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to ensure a seamless start.
Cultural Significance: The tour involves authentic Māori protocols and ceremonies, offering a respectful and meaningful cultural encounter.
Location and Accessibility: Set in the sacred Hokianga Harbour, deeply tied to Kupe’s legacy. Guests with accessibility needs should check with the centre beforehand.
Community Impact: Operated by Te Hua o Te Kawariki Trust, all profits from the tour are reinvested in local community projects.
Photography Guidelines: Confirm with staff regarding photography rules during specific parts of the experience.

AGE INFORMATION

Adult: 17 years +
Teen: 13-16 years (must be NZ school student)
Child: 5-12 years
Infant: under 5 years (free)

CANCELLATION & REFUNDS*

48 Hours Prior: Full refund if cancelled by 12:00 PM, two days before booking**
24 Hours Prior: 50% refund if cancelled by 12:00 PM, the day before booking**
Same Day: No refunds for cancellations made on the day of the booking.

Note: **Excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.