Where to experience Authentic Maori Culture ?

Question

I am planning to go to New Zealand around March/April 2007. I just have couple of days time (3 or 4 days max). I am particularly interested in the Maori culture and relaxed mountain retreat type of holidays. I am wondering if there is even any place where you can stay in the Maori village and to experience their daily life? I am not even sure if this is ethical to do, or if this is even intrusive to the locals? Or, if this is not possible, I have heard that they are some tours that will bring you to the villages for the dinner and cultural shows. I am wondering which tour agency does the best job, and which part of new zealand should I go best for this tour? I have heard that the most developed one is in Rotoura (correct spelling?), but it is too touristic? Any recommendation would be appreciated. Btw, when is the Regatta day? Is that the best time to see a Maori festival and its cultural display? Thank you

Answer 1

Hi

I am assuming from your user name that you are an Australian. So, I am wondering what your response would be if I asked you to suggest somewhere I could go in Australia to experience true Aboriginal culture? I suspect no such thing exists anymore. I suspect that modern day aboriginals, even if they live on some sort of reserve or the Aboriginal equivalent of a Maori Pa, live a hybrid life that icludes elements of their historical culture interwined with European practices. So it is with Maori; there is nowhere you can go for three days and experience some sort of preserved untainted Maori culture. Most Maori live integrated within New Zealand society. A number live with their iwi in exclusive Maori settlements but none live isolated from the influences around them. While they hold values and beliefs and operate support structures that hark back to their ancestors, they essentially live their day to day lives in the same way as the rest of the New Zealand population. If you want to understand and immerse yourself in Maori culture then you'd need to come here and 'study' them for many years not for a few days.

What you can do is visit Maori cultural sites and be introduced to their cultural history (not their modern day culture). As you have already identified, Rotorua is the best location for this. Of course, it has a touristic element-how can it not have? Is it too touristic? Not if you pick your spots.

I suggest you include visits to:

Tamaki Maori Village
The Maori Arts and Crafts Institute
The Whakarewarewa Village
Wai-o-tapu
Orakeikorako

I have been to all of these places and I believe they are all worth a visit. Rather than give you a detailed breakdown, I've given the links to their websites. When you get to Rotorua you will be inundated with 'cultural' things to do, so you can have a look at other possibilities if my suggestions dont appeal or you have time left over. Try to avoid the myriad of 'cultural experiences' that are on offer at most of the hotels!!

As regards the Regatta Day, I presume you are talking about the Auckland Anniversary Regatta which they claim is the largest regatta in the world. Unfortunately, it is scheduled for January 29th, 2007.

http://www.maoriculture.co.nz/Maori%20Village/Home
http://www.whakarewarewa.com/
http://www.tepuia.co.nz/thingstoseeanddo/whakarewarewa.html
http://www.geyserland.co.nz/
http://www.orakeikorako.co.nz/
http://www.regatta.org.nz/news.php

Answer 2

You won't be allowed to stay in a pa (village) or Marae (meeting hall) as they are specifically for Maori blood only, you can visit many throughout the country though although they have all been set up for tourists rather than working ones.

You're right Rotorua has the most developed Maori heritage, try going out to the village and the MArae with Tamaki tours, although it is a tourist trip they take their heritage seriously and it will give you a great insight into traditonal Maori living. You also get to samle a Hangi (traditional Maori cooking method) which tastes great.

Enjoy your trip.

Answer 3

your choice of place is ok. i do not know if you can stay in a Pa.that's Maori village. the tour will take you to all the best places for a look at Maori culture.
kia ora. (good health)