Published on Feb, 2025
This was a wonderful experience. My husband and I went on the guided tour, had a delicious dinner, and then experienced the Haka presentation. First, the guided tour was amazing. It was wonderful to learn about Maori culture and customs from a guide who was extremely enthusiastic and happy to share everything he could in the limited amount of time we had together. His passion reflected the earnest pride he feels. The buffet dinner was very good for a buffet dinner (interpret that as you'd like.) There was much variety and the food was hot and fresh. Finally, the Haka ceremony was something I did not expect to enjoy so thoroughly. We have been to many luau's in Hawaii, and for some reason I thought this was going to be similar to that. But this was so much more. Specifically, there was an authentic enthusiasm by the performers about sharing the Maori culture with visitors. The experience was taken seriously by the performers and the audience as a sacred and solemn ceremony. I didn't feel like I was eavesdropping on another culture, rather, this was a genuine act of friendship and drive on the part of Te Puia to educate the public about Maori culture and art.
I would recommend this experience for anyone interested in learning about the Maori as a part of their exploration of New Zealand.
