You will be learning about Maori customs, traditions, history, and both old and new protocols on a guided tour of Te Puia, Rotorua’s premier cultural center. These are small group tours with no more than 12 people. In the afternoon, you’ll experience Rotorua’s unique Maori culture and geothermal activity, seeing how they are intricately intertwined. The tour includes a visit to the wood carving school, art and craft gallery, Rotowhio Marae, weaving display, kiwi house, and the Pohutu geyser. Next, you’ll explore the Lakefront area to see the Maori War Canoe and learn more about Maori history and customs. A short visit to Kuirau Park will allow you to view a recent geothermal eruption site. The tour concludes with a visit to the pristine, tranquil lakes of this incredible volcanic region, offering stunning views of Mount Tarawera while learning about both its volcanic and Maori history. You’ll be immersed in a vibrant feast of song, drama, tradition, and exquisite seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pa (village), surrounded by towering Tawa trees, flickering bonfires, and a natural amphitheater shaped by the forest. Te Pa Tu brings Maori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations to life during a 4-hour celebration of feasting. These events shift with each season of the maramataka, the Maori lunar calendar. Summer: Tu Te Ra – During this lunar phase, the sun reaches its peak energy, the days grow longer, and light nourishes the world around us. Tu Te Ra celebrates the bountiful harvest while delving into the rituals, stories, and concepts of ancient Maori warfare and peace. Winter: Tu Te Ihi – This phase coincides with the bright shining of the Matariki stars in the winter skies. Tu Te Ihi captures the energy and passion stirred by the Matariki cluster and the promise it holds. The feast features a variety of dishes, including roasted tuna (native eel), creamy paua (abalone) on rewena (bread) crostini, foraged greens, chunky smoked kahawai, ember-warmed kumara, and restorative kawakawa tea. Torchlight leads manuhiri (guests) to a lavish yet relaxed four-course feast. While Hangi takes center stage, it’s complemented by lesser-known Maori delicacies prepared in a fusion style. Expect unique dishes like Wagyu pincanha, watercress chimichurri, taro gratin, and even kumara ice cream—each dish inspired by or infused with traditional Maori ingredients, stories, and cooking techniques. Whether dining al fresco or in wharekai (dining room), you’ll be celebrating the spirit of hakari (feasting) and the beauty of Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Elite Rotorua Tour & Evening Experience at Te Pa Tu The Gathering Place
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Your Accommodation
Millennium Hotel Rotorua
Next to mystical Lake Rotorua and just a short stroll from the city centre, Millennium Hotel Rotorua is an eco-friendly destination offering comfort and convenience in the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland. Perfect for leisure and business travellers, our hotel is within walking distance of Polynesian Spa, Rotorua’s vibrant dining scene, and local attractions.
