New Zealand through the eyes of its indigenous people
Maori, the indigenous people of New Zealand have a knowledge and relationship with the land that dates back to a time long before the arrival of the first Europeans. There are many opportunities for visitors to New Zealand to interact with local Maori people and to see the country in a new way, through the eyes of the indigenous people of the land.
From Hokianga harbour in the Far North to Kaikoura on the east coast of the South Island, the opportunities are plentiful for international visitors to have an authentic cultural experience. It is a chance for visitors to discover ancient tribal histories of the land and its people, in most cases, recounted by the descendants of the first human inhabitants of the area.
Located in Hokianga Northland, is Footprints Waipoua. The area is rich in history and was the first home of the great Polynesian explorer, Kupe, who many believe first discovered New Zealand approximately 1,000 years ago.
The Hokianga is also home to Waipoua, the largest kauri forest in the world. Footprints Waipoua offers day and night walks into the forest, guided by members of the local tribes.Each tour is infused with local legends, customs, song and traditional Maori musical instruments that combine to bring this eco-cultural experience to life.
Waipoua, New Zealand's largest sub-tropical rainforest is home to many species of native plants and wildlife. Each has an important significance to the local tribes and this is shared with tour participants as they make their way to the majestic Tane Mahuta, a colossal 51.5 metre kauri tree named after the Maori forest God. The Kauri growing in the forest are believed to be up to 3000 years old.
Further south in Auckland, Potiki Adventures run contemporary cultural tours that showcase the city's gorgeous landscapes while incorporating Maori culture and history of the region. As well as day tours and group tours Potiki Adventures offer exclusive itineraries with an emphasis on an authentic contemporary Maori cultural experience such as visiting local Maori artists and the city’s colourful markets.
The suburb of Waiwhetu, in Welligton’s Lower Hutt is home to Maori Treasures, run by a family renowned for their expertise in traditional Maori arts and craft. Visitors are welcomed into the family's private studio, where traditional Maori crafts, such as wood carving and flax weaving are explained and demonstrated by skilled artists.
Maori Treasures is also home to Konae Aronui Wananga - a specialist Maori arts school. Visitors to Maori Treasures are also encouraged to learn and most leave with a small souvenir that they have made on their own. For visitors wanting to purchase an expertly crafted piece, there is a gallery shop on site filled with quality examples of authentic Maori art and craft.
Maori Tours provide cultural experiences in and around the seaside settlement of Kaikoura, on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island. The tour includes visits to areas of historical significance, as guides who are members of the local hapu (sub-tribe) explain the importance of each location from an indigenous perspective.
There is also the chance to visit one of Kaikoura’s bush walkways and learn how native plants were and continue to be used by Maori for food and medicinal purposes. Tour group numbers are limited to foster an intimate connection to Kaikoura, its history and its people.
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