Maori Marae Visit
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Puerto
Tauranga (Rotorua), Nueva Zelanda
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Nivel de actividad
Easy
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Tipo de excursión
All
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Accesible para personas en silla de ruedas
No
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A partir de
$149
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Edad mínima
Information Not Currently Available
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Duración
Approximately 4¼ Hours
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Comidas incluidas
Meals not included
From Mt Maunganui, cross the Tauranga Bridge to enter downtown Tauranga for a drive through the city center.
Head west to a real working Maori marae or meeting place, where the local iwi (tribe) regularly gathers. Gain an in-depth view of how the Maori have retained their culture and customs in a rapidly changing world.
You will witness a traditional warrior challenge (wero) and powhiri (welcome onto the marae), followed by speeches of welcome and a hongi -- the pressing of noses.
The elders or kaumatua of the tribe invite you to enter the marae, where the carvings and customs of the tribe will be explained. Until the arrival of the Europeans, Maori had no written language, so much of their story was told through intricate carvings.
After some light refreshments, watch a lively Maori concert performed by local school children featuring action songs, poi dances, stick games and the haka war dance. The local weavers at the marae are proud to present their work.
Return to Mt Maunganui via the Minden Lookout and around the shores of beautiful Tauranga Harbour.
Notes:
Photography is restricted during the powhiri (welcome ceremony onto the marae). You must remove your hat and shoes when entering the meetinghouse. Participants must be able to climb a few steps unassisted to board the transportation.