Experiencing Maori Culture in Rotorua, New Zealand, Rotorua, New Zealand

This post will mark the end of our adventure in New Zealand. And our evening at the Tamaki Maori Village in Rotorua was the perfect way to wrap up our trip. If you’re heading to Rotorua, I highly recommend spending a night at the Tamaki Maori Village to learn more about their ancient culture. (Maori are the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand.)

The Tamaki Maori Village is about 15 minutes outside Rotorua nestled in a forest. The night begins when a local guide picks you up in a bus from your hotel or hostel and whisks you off to the village, all while regaling you with tales of the tribe and what to expect for the evening. He will also help you select your group’s “chief” for the evening. Your chief will be in charge of leading the group through the village as well as partaking in the greeting ceremonies. Check out the “powhiri” (welcome ceremony), below. 

It’s a very serious ceremony! And quite the experience to witness. Our chief did a wonderful job that evening too. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).