Visit the 3000-year-old Tane Mahuta
Waipoua Forest
In New Zealand's Waipoua Forest, we can admire the magnificent sight of New Zealand's tallest native tree species, the kauri tree - Tane Mahuta. If you join the Waipoua Footprints tour, local guides will introduce you to the history and stories of this place. At dusk, you will have the opportunity to enter the ancient kauri forest and experience the transition from day to night, listening to the mysterious calls of the kiwi and the morepork owl. This will be an unforgettable adventure!
Visit the 117-Year-Old House
The House That Came Home
This magnificent hall, located in Matatua on New Zealand's North Island, was built in 1875 to commemorate ancestors and for carving. However, it is said that the building was dismantled and shipped to England in 1879, as it was considered a suitable place for the Queen to reside. It wasn't until 1996 that the building finally returned to Matatua. By joining the Matatua tour, you can trace the history of the building, learn more about Matatua culture, and explore the places it once visited.
Be the First Person in the World to See the Sunrise
In Maori cultural legends, Māui is a demigod character described as having fished up the North Island from the sea. It is said that when the sea rose, the first piece of land that appeared was Mount Hikurangi. This mountain is located 90 kilometers north of Gisborne in the Tairāwhiti region of New Zealand's North Island and is considered one of the first places in the world to see the sunrise. If you want to experience a special journey, you can embark on a dawn tour with a local guide to explore the magnificent beauty of this mysterious mountain.
See the Works of Master Carvers
In Rotorua, you can visit Te Puia and the Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley, which are real attractions. At Te Puia, you can not only admire the largest geyser in the Southern Hemisphere and bubbling mud pools, but also visit the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute. Here, you have the opportunity to watch master carvers at work and witness firsthand how they transform wood into intricate artworks.
Learn about the Treaty of Waitangi
The Treaty of Waitangi is a highly influential event in New Zealand's history. If you visit the northern region, you must not miss the opportunity to visit the Treaty House, explore historical buildings, and get a close look at the ancient Maori war canoes. In the museum, you will discover a world full of cultural heritage that can keep you engaged for an entire day. With the Waitangi Experience Pass, you can even enjoy free access to all areas for two consecutive days, fully immersing yourself in the wonderful experience this historic site has to offer.
Experience Dunedin Stargazing
On the Dunedin Horizon Tour, you will have the opportunity to explore how the Maori used celestial navigation for farming and guidance, and experience a unique stargazing journey. If you're lucky, you might even witness the stunning Southern Lights. During the day, you can learn about the daily lives of early Maori settlers and the historical impact of Europeans on the region. By visiting local history museums and sites, you will gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of this area.
Learn to Paddle a Maori Canoe
At the waterfront area of Wellington, the coolest little capital in New Zealand, you can head to Te Wharewaka o Pōneke, a multifunctional activity center, to participate in various activities. There are many lesser-known attractions and historical sites here that allow you to gain a deeper understanding of the lives and culture of early settlers. If you want to learn the traditional Maori canoe paddling techniques, the Waka tour is an activity not to be missed. After the activity, you can head to the adjacent Karaka Café to enjoy an authentic Maori traditional Hangi feast, bringing a double enjoyment to both your taste buds and soul.
Carve Your Own Greenstone
In the riverbeds of New Zealand's South Island, greenstone is a highly precious mineral and one of New Zealand's sacred treasures. At the Bonz'n'Stonz store based in the small town of Hokitika on the West Coast, there are many talented carving masters. They will show you how to use greenstone, fish bones, or paua shells to carve unique and exquisite artworks. Even better, you can create your own piece of jewelry to take home and show off.
Kayaking Under the Great Rock Carvings
You can visit the famous Maori navigator Ngātoroirangi's rock carvings at Mine Bay in New Zealand, which are regarded as important cultural heritage. You can choose a half-day or full-day tour offered by Taupo Kayaking Adventures, paddling through bays and sheltered areas with spectacular sights and sounds. These activities are very relaxed and enjoyable, giving you plenty of free time to explore the tranquil spots of Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake.
Explore the Village Buried by Volcanic Mud
Since 1840, the Maori people began building villages around Lake Tarawera. This area was home to the Pink and White Terraces, a stunning natural wonder that attracted many visitors. However, in 1886, Mount Tarawera erupted, burying the entire village. Now, you can join tours to visit the buried village, which is one of New Zealand's most visited archaeological sites. You will gain a deeper understanding of this significant part of local history.
