Voyage of Māori Heritage and Buffet Lunch

Oct-Apr

North Island

Mitai Maori Village

from

NZ$139

per adult

Book Now

Group of Māori performers in traditional attire standing under carved entrance at Mitai Māori Village.

Experiences

History and Māori Culture

Food, Wine & Beer Tours

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

North Island

Start: Rotorua

Travel Time: 2 hours

Details

Step Into Māori Traditions in Rotorua

The Voyage of Māori Heritage and Buffet Lunch at Mitai Māori Village is a heartfelt cultural journey perfect for visitors wanting to understand New Zealand’s indigenous roots. Witness warriors paddle a traditional waka down the stream, feel the passion of live haka performances, and listen as ancestral stories come to life. This powerful connection to Māori heritage is made even more memorable in Rotorua’s stunning natural setting.

Ideal for travellers of all ages, the experience includes engaging demonstrations of ancient tools, carving skills, and sacred rituals passed down through generations. You’ll also enjoy a delicious buffet lunch as part of your visit, bringing traditional flavours to the table. It’s a truly immersive way to explore Aotearoa’s rich cultural landscape, leaving you inspired and informed.

Starts: 11am
Duration: 2 hours

Close-up of a Māori warrior in traditional korowai (cloak) and moko (Māori tattooing) at Mitai Māori Village, Rotorua.

Māori whānau (family) dressed in traditional clothing posing at Mitai Māori Village in Rotorua, surrounded by native bush.

A clear stream and wooden bridge surrounded by lush greenery at Mitai Māori Village, Rotorua.

Close-up of a ponga fern frond unfurling into a koru shape at Mitai Māori Village.

Māori warriors paddling a waka through native bush as visitors watch at Mitai Māori Village, Rotorua.

Traditional Māori waka decorated with ferns and feathers arriving at Mitai Māori Village during the cultural welcome ceremony.

Māori warriors arriving in a waka (canoe) during the cultural show at Mitai Māori Village.

Two staff lifting food baskets from a traditional hangi pit at Mitai Māori Village, Rotorua.

Staff uncovering a traditional hāngī meal at Mitai Māori Village in Rotorua.

Cooked meat, kūmara and vegetables in foil trays inside a traditional hangi pit at Mitai Māori Village.

Traditional hangi feast with chicken, vegetables, stuffing and salad served at Mitai Māori Village in Rotorua.

Fresh root vegetables prepared for a traditional Māori hāngī at Mitai Village.

Māori performers dancing on stage in traditional dress at Mitai Māori Village, Rotorua.

Portrait of Māori whānau in traditional dress standing in the native forest at Mitai Māori Village, Rotorua.

Māori woman performing a traditional karanga welcome call at Mitai Māori Village in Rotorua, New Zealand.

Includes:

A warm welcome from your host upon arrival
Witness the revealing of a traditional hāngī feast
Experience the breathtaking sight of warriors paddling a waka taua (war canoe) on the Wai o Whiro Stream
Visit Puna Tapu, a sacred natural spring with deep cultural significance
Take part in a traditional pōwhiri (welcome ceremony) and wero (challenge)
Enjoy a mesmerising cultural performance, featuring the graceful poi dance and the powerful haka
Discover the history and significance of traditional Māori weapons and instruments
Indulge in a delicious hāngī buffet lunch, cooked using ancient earth oven techniques
Conclude the experience with a heartfelt poroporoaki (farewell ceremony)

What to Expect

This interactive journey is designed to connect visitors with the rich Māori heritage, combining storytelling, performances, and hands-on activities. Highlights of the experience include:

Traditional Welcome & Powhiri – Be greeted in an authentic Māori way and learn about the importance of welcoming ceremonies.
Live Cultural Performances – Witness powerful haka performances, graceful poi dances, and traditional songs.
Warrior Canoe (Waka) Display – See skilled warriors paddling a traditional waka (canoe) down a natural stream, showcasing their paddling techniques.
Māori Weaponry & Carving Demonstrations – Learn about ancient Māori craftsmanship and the significance of weapons in Māori society.
Sacred Stories & Legends – Listen to captivating tales that have been passed down through generations.
Guided Forest Walk – Explore native bushland, discovering traditional Māori plants and their uses for medicine and survival.

Why Visit Mitai Māori Village?

Authentic & Family-Run – Mitai is renowned for delivering an authentic and heartfelt experience, deeply rooted in Māori traditions.
Perfect for All Ages – Whether you're a solo traveller, a couple, or a family, this experience offers something for everyone.
Located in Rotorua – One of New Zealand’s top cultural and geothermal hotspots.

HELPFUL INFO

Parking is free
Dress appropriately for the weather, such as warm clothing in winter, a hat in summer, and a jacket when it's raining
Wear comfortable shoes for the bush walk
Umbrellas are provided on a first-come, first-served basis
Some areas of the forest walk may not be accessible for wheelchairs
Limited availability of baby highchairs, so book in advance
There are bar facilities on site; please do not bring alcoholic beverages onto or off the premises

AGE INFORMATION

Adult: 14 years +
Children: 5-13 years
Infant: 4 years and under

CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS

More than 48 hours before departure: Full refund**.
Between 24 and 48 hours before departure: 50% refund**
Within 24 hours before departure: No refund

Note: **Refund 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.*

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