Visiting the 3000-year-old Tanima-huta tree
Waipoua Forest is a place in New Zealand where we can enjoy the magnificent scenery of the tallest native tree species, the Kauri, or Tāne Mahuta. If you join the Waipoua Footprints tour, the local guide will introduce you to the history and stories of the area. At dusk, you will have the opportunity to enter the ancient Kauri forest and experience the forest's changes from day to night, listening to the mysterious calls of strange birds and the morepork owl. This will be an unforgettable adventure!
Visit this house that has been standing for 117 years
The House That Came Home. This grand meeting house is located in Mataatua on the North Island of New Zealand. It was constructed in 1875 to commemorate ancestors and was adorned with intricate carvings. However, it is said that the building was dismantled in 1879 and transported to England as it was deemed a fitting residence for the queen. It wasn't until 1996 that the building finally returned to Mataatua. By taking the Mataatua tour, you can uncover answers to questions about Mataatua culture while tracing the history of the building and exploring the places it has been.
Become the first person in the world to see the sunrise
In the legend of Maori culture, Maui is a half-human, half-god figure described as the person who fished up the North Island from the sea. It is said that when the sea rose, the first piece of land appeared, which was the Hikurangi mountain. This mountain is located 90 kilometers north of Gisborne in the Tairawhiti region of New Zealand's North Island and is considered one of the earliest places in the world to see the sunrise. If you want to experience a special journey, you can embark on a dawn tour with local guides to explore the magnificent beauty of this mysterious mountain range.
Take a look at the master sculptor's works
You can visit the Te Puia and Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, which are real attractions, in Rotorua. At Te Puia, you can not only admire the largest geysers in the Southern Hemisphere and bubbling mud pools, but also visit the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. Here, you have the opportunity to watch working carving masters and witness how they sculpt wood into intricate artworks.
Understanding the Treaty of Waitangi
The Treaty of Waitangi is an influential event in New Zealand history. If you visit the Northern region, be sure not to miss visiting the Treaty House, explore the historic buildings and observe the Maori war canoe up close. In the museum, you will discover a world full of cultural and historical heritage that can keep you occupied for an entire day. With the Waitangi Experience Pass, you can even enjoy free entry to all areas for two consecutive days, to fully experience the excitement this historical landmark has to offer.
Experience stargazing in Dunedin
On the Dunedin Horizon Tour, you will have the opportunity to explore how the Maoris used celestial navigation to guide their farming practices, and experience a unique star gazing tour. If you're lucky, you may even witness the spectacular aurora australis. During the day, you can learn about the daily life of early Maori settlers and the historical impact of Europeans on the region. Visiting local history museums and sites, you will gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the area.
Learn how to paddle a canoe for profit
In the coastal area of Wellington, the coolest little capital in New Zealand, you can visit the Te Wharewaka o Pōneke center for various activities. There are many unknown sights and historical sites here that allow you to gain a deeper understanding of the lives and cultures of early immigrants. If you want to learn traditional Maori canoe paddling techniques, the Waka tour is definitely an activity not to be missed. After the activity, you can go to the nearby Karaka restaurant to taste authentic Maori traditional Hangi cuisine, bringing a double enjoyment to both your appetite and soul.
Carve one's own green jade
In the riverbeds of New Zealand's South Island, greenstone is a highly prized mineral and one of New Zealand's sacred treasures. At the Bonz'n'Stonz shop based in the small town of Hokitika on the West Coast, there are many talented carving masters who will show you how to use greenstone, fish bones, or abalone shells to carve unique and exquisite artworks. Even better, you can make your own jewelry and take it home to show off.
Kayaking under a giant stone sculpture
You can visit the famous Maori navigator Nukutawhiti's stone carvings at Mining Bay in New Zealand, which are considered important representatives of cultural heritage. You can choose from half-day or full-day tours provided by Taupo kayaking, where you kayak through the bay and sheltered areas for an exciting experience. These activities are easygoing and enjoyable, giving you enough leisure time to explore the serene beauty of New Zealand's largest lake, Taupo.
Exploring Villages Buried in Volcanic Mud
Since 1840, Māori people have been building villages around Lake Tarawera. This area is located on a red and white lava plateau, and the beautiful scenery attracts many visitors. However, in 1886, the Tarawera volcano erupted and the entire village was buried. Now, you can join a tour to visit the buried village, which is also one of the most visited archaeological sites in New Zealand. You will be able to learn more about this important part of local history.
