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Maori Culture Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Waka Taiamai Tours Introduction

Waka Taiamai Tours invite you to experience authentic Maori culture in the Bay of Islands, we would like to give you a peek into the great history of Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Northland is the birthplace of New Zealand and the Ngapuhi Maori Tribe are the largest group of Maori in the country. Let us tailor one of our Bay of Islands Maori cultural tours especially for you or join us on some of our great tour options.

From Canoe Journeys to thermal pool visits we have you covered.

Experience Maori Culture in the Bay of Islands

Hone Mihaka will take you on a personal journey of his unique Maori culture, awe inspiring Bay of Islands scenery and fascinating historic places. Hone will assist all travelers with a tailored package to suit individual or group needs.

You could also join us on one of our frequent journeys below. Its the perfect way of introducing you to the real Bay of Islands experience. An unforgettable journey of cultural understanding and belonging lies ahead...

Kororipo Heritage Journey – Taiamai Tours Heritage Journey's guided tours offer an internationally re-known experience into Ngapuhi interaction recounting the impact of European settlement through reviving the history of our infamous ancestor Chief Hongi Hika.

We cater to the needs of the inter-active traveller category to host authentic experiences as indigenous peoples. Share our intergenerational story telling of heritage landscapes and peopling diversity.

Te Hoenga Waka – The visitor experience starts from the moment the visitor takes up the hoe (paddle) and a life jacket. Following five to ten minutes of orientation we board the waka. The visitor is involved from the beginning in karakia (prayers) and whaikorero (speech making).

Our waka journey begins with the calls from our Kaihautu (chief) with the sounding of the warriors and visitors all chanting to the rhythm of the paddle piercing the water.

Sounding the Pukaea (trumpet) signaling our departure from Horotutu Beach we glide across the breast of moana nui a kiwa (god of the sea) our chief stands at the front of the waka and begins the chanting and speech making.

We paddle towards Motu maire, where our warriors disembark spear-heading a Ngapuhi challenge and welcome to the sacred island where once Ngapuhi warriors were trained in the art of ancient warfare.

Once the ceremonies are completed we then begin the return journey with a stopover (on occasion) at one of the mussel beds. Visitors are able to watch or join our warriors while they gather some mussels. Arriving back at Horotutu beach the journey is completed with a final speech and prayer with a song or haka.

Ngawha Geothermal Mineral Pools – This exclusive tour, offered only by Taiamai Tours has it all from cultural heritage to eco tourism. This promises to provide an intimate and spiritual encounter with Maori unparalleled anywhere else in the world.

• An intimate, interactive and spiritual encounter with local Maori
• A cultural and heritage journey of mystical proportions
• Hangi dinner and traditional Ngapuhi challenge and welcome at our family Marae
• Evening excursions to sacred Maori sites
• Unparalleled healing benefits of the Ngawha mineral hot springs
• Finish your day with a hot soak under the stars and meet the locals!
• Complimentary pick up and drop off

Hidden in a secluded area of the Bay of Islands known as Taiamai, the pools have been used by local Maori for more than one thousand years. The Ngawha is renowned locally, nationally and internationally for its healing properties and are credited with relieving joint pain, skin rash and internal problems along with many other ailments.

Treat yourself today; bathe in the soothing waters and mud of the Nga Wha. Come with us, feel the difference in this legendary healing place of the Maori.

For further information about experiencing Maori culture in the Bay of Islands with us, please contact us or visit our Bay of islands Maori cultural tours Web site.

About the Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is a stunningly beautiful length of sand and rock coastline that circles a sea pierced by 150 islands. Wherever you are in the Bay of Islands, it’s impossible to escape the lure of the sea.

Catch a ferry or charter boat and immerse yourself in the blue-green world of island and beach. Or paddle a sea kayak in and out of island nooks and crannies.

Swimming with dolphins is another speciality of the Bay of Islands. Many operators in the region offer excellent trips to spectacular Cape Brett and the “Hole in the Rock” on Piercy Island.

The townships of this historical bay are alive with memories of the area's colourful history. Visitors are welcome to explore the well-preserved relics of the past, both Maori and European, in romantic Russell, Paihia, Waitangi or Kerikeri.

For further information about experiencing Maori culture in the Bay of Islands with us, please contact us or visit our Bay of islands Maori cultural tours Web site.

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The following features, memberships and organisations are associated with Waka Taiamai Tours:

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