Travelers should not leave Aotearoa (New Zealand) without experiencing at least some of the rich Maori cultures. While Maori culture is imprinted deeply in the country, with many infographics showing Maori’s cultural and historical influences and legends around nature tracks, one does not simply walk into a Maori village or home with cultural and traditional elements readily presented for guests. Fortunately, there are some cultural villages around New Zealand, where people can book into a session for a rich experience, taste, and sight of Maori culture.
I have searched around the web for Maori cultural villages in New Zealand, and I found Mitai Maori Village in Rotorua to offer one of the most authentic experiences. I saw another popular cultural village nearby but the meals seemed less authentic as they modified the signature Maori cuisine into a fine dining setting.
Online booking into an evening experience with Mitai Maori Village was simple and straightforward. On the day of the experience, I first checked-in and gathered with other guests in a large dining hall with assigned tables, where I got to meet people from interesting backgrounds, such as a professional wrestler from the USA.
As the session started, we were given introductions and briefings from a Maori host. A volunteer will be chosen to be the ‘leader’ for the day, who will represent all of the guests. Then, the host lead us outside to witness our dinner being ‘unearthed’. This is the famous Hangi, Maori most signature food that is cooked underground. They disclosed that a modern earth oven is used, instead of the traditional fire over ground method.
A delicious preview of our dinner.
Next, we were led to a place by the river, where we were greeted by Maori warriors paddling and chanting on traditional dug boats.
Later, the host showed us the sacred spring-fed pool in their village. Jets of spring water can be seen coming out of the ground in the blue pool, with fish swimming around.
After the war boats welcome ceremony, we were ushered to a theater hall. The first performance was an interesting ‘confrontation’ between the Maori and us, the visitors. This was where our volunteer leader needed to decide if we ‘come in peace’, or if we are here to battle. Fortunately, peace was the outcome. Above picture is the village chief, sharing some facts about his land and people.
At Mitai Maori Village theater hall, we enjoyed the galore of performances, performed by the Maori people who grew up in this village. The deep love for their land and culture can be seen in their enthusiasm to share these to us.
We were also showcased various games and tools used by the Maori to sharpen their fighting skills, which they also incorporated into the dances and performances.
And of course, it won’t be complete without the signature and powerful Haka war dance performance
Check out the video of the performances!
Finally, we were back to the dining hall to enjoy our big Hangi meals. Everything was delicious! As we are finishing, the hosts open the floor for any questions from the guests. As I was so absorbed into the Q&A session, I missed out on the traditional steamed puddings and pavlova as I didn’t realize they are being served at the counter after the mains, and I was quite sad about that 🙁
Lastly, the host took us for a night walk to see glow worms. At the same time, the host shared some more details about the things around the village, before the session ended.
My accommodation in Rotorua: Rock Solid Backpackers
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What to eat in Rotorua
While you’re around Rotorua, I highly recommend the fish tacos and fish n’ chips at River’s Catch.
And if you still have more space for food, hit up the town’s best burger joint at JP’s on Jervis.
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