There are plenty of great adventures based on Māori cultural experience all over New Zealand, from the top of the North Island to the lower South Island. Whether you enjoy bathing in calming hot springs, walking through old trees or going on whale trips, there is something that will definitely surprise you. Let’s take a look at some of the top Māori experiences that you should not miss!

Visit the ancient Tāne Mahuta (Waipoua Forest, Northland and Bay of Islands)

Visit the legendary Tāne Mahuta, New Zealand’s most ancient and tallest tree, standing at 51 meters, as high as Niagara Falls. This historic kauri tree has existed from the days of the pyramids in ancient Egypt and is believed to be around 2,500 and 3,000 years old. The amazing stories of Tāne Mahuta that have been shared over the years will be told by Māori guides during a Footprints Waipoua tour, and they will also show how to protect it from the dangers of kauri dieback. It is a living part of history, not just a tree.

Learn about Kupe’s story (Manea Footprints of Kupe, Northland and Bay of Islands)

Follow in the footsteps of Kupe, the Polynesian explorer who found Aotearoa (New Zealand) over a thousand years ago. You can hear Kupe’s story through interactive storytelling, art, movies and sacred items (tāonga) at Manea Footprints of Kupe. This trip offers a close bond with the land and its past while perfectly reflecting Māori cultural traditions. The storytelling itself has its roots in Māori oral tradition, which is sharing knowledge and history through words from one generation to the next. Now, the coolest part? Since the guides are direct relatives of Kupe, you get to hear history straight from the source.

Bathe in the healing waters of Ngawha Springs (Te Tai Tokerau, Northland)

How about a dip in the old hot springs? Māori people have been using the mineral-rich springs at Ngawha Springs for rest and healing for thousands of years. There are 24 pools available, each with its own mineral qualities, so you can chill, cleanse your skin or relieve your muscles. Total peace, right?

Find an ancient mystery at Waimangu Volcanic Valley (Rotorua)

The well-known Pink and White Terraces were believed to have disappeared forever, after the Mount Tarawera eruption in 1886, although some people claim they can still be seen under Lake Rotomahana. Take a boat ride on Lake Rotomahana to see them on your own. The tour’s profits fund community initiatives and local sustainability, so you are helping out while enjoying yourself.

Explore Māori culture at Te Puia (Rotorua)

The heart of Māori culture is Te Puia. The famous Pōhutu geyser, which erupts about 20 times each day, is located in the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. Even the rare kiwi bird will be seen, along with traditional Māori arts and crafts and cultural events.  It provides a clear look at Māori cultural traditions that have been maintained for years, making it a complete cultural experience.

Relax with Māori-inspired luxury at Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa ( Rotorua)

Are you ready to chill out like never before? Traditional Māori therapy and luxurious spa treatments are offered at Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa. To refresh your mind and body,  try cold water plunges, geothermal mud wraps and healing mineral baths. This is not just a spa day, it is a meaningful Māori cultural experience where traditional healing methods are combined with modern luxury. Plus, it is iwi-owned, so the local Māori community gains from the profits.

Have a great meal at Te Pā Tū ( Rotorua)

Food lovers, this is for you. A taste of fresh Māori food is waiting for you at Te Pā Tū. Traditional hāngi (meal cooked underground) will be served after kai horotai (indigenous canapés) like crispy pork and kawakawa leaves. You will be treated to an amazing kapa haka show while you eat, imagine heartfelt songs, dances and the famous haka, pretty amazing, huh?

Visit Kāpiti Island, a must-see for bird lovers ( Wellington)

Kāpiti Island is home to many native birds and is safe from predators. Kāpiti Island Nature Tours offers guided tours where you can see tui, bellbirds, kererū (the big pigeon that looks like it shouldn’t be able to fly) and the naughty kākā that might try to take your lunch. The history and cultural value of the island will be clearly explained to you by Māori guides.

Paddle the Whanganui River with Māori guides ( Whanganui)

Enjoy a waka (canoe) trip with the Whanganui iwi along the respected Whanganui River. You will pass through rapids, visit holy spots and enjoy ancient stories that have been told for centuries during this multi-day trip. In legal terms, the Whanganui River is recognised as a living entity. By paddling it, you are living history, not just passing through water.

Whale watching with the experts in Kaikōura ( Christchurch- Canterbury)

Due to the deep Kaikōura Canyon situated near the shore,  Kaikōura is known as one of the best spots for whale watching. There is a 95 per cent chance of seeing whales on the whale watch kaikōura tours, and the guides, who have been doing this for years, can tell different whales apart. What’s more interesting is that you will definitely get the great tail flip shot. Sounds interesting, right?

Taste Christchurch with Āmiki tours ( Christchurch- Canterbury)

The term “Āmiki” refers to storytelling and this casual food walk will offer you a taste of Māori history and culture through delicious local meals.  Enjoy tasty kai (food) as you travel through the city’s past and present with a Māori historian. The experience is unique, full of history and closely tied to tradition, just like Māori storytelling around fire. Since every trip is designed for the group, no two experiences are alike.

Book a Waka tour at Abel Tasman ( South Island)

At sunrise, glide across Abel Tasman’s clear waters in a classic Māori waka (canoe). As part of their rich Māori oral tradition,  Māori guides will share stories of their ancestors about the ocean’s importance and old legends. There is a deep relationship between the land and the water and the views are amazing.

Get ready to experience Māori culture like never before

All over New Zealand, Māori culture is strong and alive, from traditional canoe trips and soothing hot springs to impressive performances. These trips are more than just looking around, they are true Māori cultural experiences that provide a strong link to history, nature and custom in the most genuine way. So, what are you thinking? Are you ready to explore?