New Zealand has a rich and unique history, with the Maori culture having existed for hundreds of years.
Luckily in New Zealand today there are still many places where the traditions and customs of Maori culture are observed, celebrated and preserved so that they may still exist in centuries to come.
Bound Round has compiled a list of some of the coolest places around New Zealand, where families can enjoy a full immersion in this ancient and fascinating culture.
Ko Tane, Christchurch
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Ko Tane Living Maori Village at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve in Christchurch is an amazing chance to experience the culture and day-to-day life of the South Island Ngai Tahu Maori people before European settlement.
Families can explore the place of the sacred Forest Gods, the Tane, as well as hear stories, hunting calls and take part in the Haka and Poi dances.
Mitai Maori Village, Rotorua
Photo: http://nzmaoritourism.com/
At Mitai Maori Village, kids have a chance to get involved with lots of different aspects of traditional Maori culture. They can enjoy a traditional feast called a hangi, see an ancient waka canoe and enjoy a full Maori performance that showcases different dances, stories and traditions. When darkness falls, there is also the opportunity to go looking for glowworms in the magical Fairy Pool.
Tamaki Maori Village, Rotorua
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Families are greeted with a Powhiri- an ancient Maori welcome ceremony- when they arrive at Tamaki Maori Village in the midst of a 200 year old Tawa Forest.
They can learn about the customs and lives of the Ngati Tama people through demonstrations of crafts, culture and fun.
In the Meeting House they can experience a Maori performance that is both powerful and entertaining, before sitting down to a delicious hangi feast prepared with the traditional Maori methods.
Whakarewarewa- Rotorua
Photo: http://www.bookmestatic.net.nz/
Families can hear the stories and legends of the Ngati Wahiao/ Tuhourangi tribe as they embark on a guided tour through this incredible Maori village.
See a traditional Haka dance, enjoy the songs and displays at the cultural show and finish the trip with a delicious hangi- the only one in New Zealand cooked over natural geothermal vents.
