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Nestled in the heart of Rotorua, New Zealand, Mitai Māori Village offers an authentic immersion into Māori culture, providing visitors with a unique and memorable experience.
What is Mitai Māori Village?
Mitai Māori Village, a family-owned and operated cultural attraction in Rotorua, New Zealand, offers visitors an authentic and immersive experience into the rich traditions and heritage of the Māori people. Established over 20 years ago under the leadership of Wetini Mitai-Ngatai and the Mitai-Ngatai whānau (family), the village was developed on four acres of land called Rotohokahoka, gifted by the Ngāti Whakaue people.
The vision for Mitai Māori Village was to redevelop the old pā (village) site, showcase Māori culture through performing arts, and share the traditional Māori lifestyle. Visitors are invited to experience traditional performances, witness warriors paddling an ancient canoe (waka) down the Wai-o-whiro stream, and enjoy a hāngī feast—a meal cooked using traditional earth oven methods.
The village also offers insights into the history of the area, which once flourished with villages, and provides a glimpse into the way of life of the Māori people in the days of old. Through song and dance, the stories of the people are shared, giving visitors an appreciation of who the Māori are as the indigenous people of Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Mitai Māori Village is situated at 196 Fairy Springs Road in Rotorua, North Island, New Zealand, making it easily accessible for visitors.
Where is Mitai Māori Village Located?
Situated at 196 Fairy Springs Road in Rotorua, North Island, New Zealand, Mitai Māori Village is conveniently located just a short drive from the city center. It's approximately a 20-minute drive from Rotorua Airport and a 5-minute drive from the central coach terminal at Tourism Rotorua.
Experiences at Mitai Māori Village
An evening at Mitai Māori Village offers a comprehensive cultural journey:
- Welcoming Ceremony: Guests are greeted with a traditional pōwhiri (welcoming ceremony), setting the tone for the evening.
- Cultural Performances: Be captivated by songs, dances, and games, including the powerful haka (war dance) and the graceful poi dance.
- Warrior Canoe Display: Witness warriors in traditional attire paddling a waka (ancient canoe) down the Wai-o-whiro stream, showcasing traditional Māori navigation and warrior skills.
- Hāngī Dinner: Enjoy a buffet-style feast featuring succulent New Zealand meats, poultry, vegetables, and fresh salads, all cooked using the traditional hāngī method.
- Nature Walk: Explore the surrounding native bush, learn about the flora and fauna, and discover the sacred freshwater spring, Te Puna Tapu o Tuhoe.
- Glow Worm Viewing: Conclude the evening with a walk through the forest to see glow worms illuminating the darkness, adding a magical touch to the experience.
Prices and Booking Information
As of the latest information, the Mitai Māori Cultural Experience & Dinner Buffet is priced at $155 NZD per adult and $90 NZD for children aged 5 to 9. Prices are valid until September 30, 2024. Bookings are essential and can be made through their official website or by contacting them directly.
Opening Times
Mitai Māori Village operates year-round, with business hours from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, seven days a week. The evening experience typically runs from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM during winter and 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM in summer. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
Wai, Kai & Relax
Mitai Māori Village also offers combo packages, such as the "Wai, Kai & Relax" Village Spa Combo, which combines the cultural experience with relaxation at the Polynesian Spa's Deluxe Lake Spa.
A visit to Mitai Māori Village in Rotorua offers a profound insight into Māori culture, traditions, and hospitality. It's an enriching experience that combines education, entertainment, and culinary delights, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to New Zealand.
To fully explore the beauty of New Zealand and conveniently visit attractions like Mitai Māori Village, consider renting a campervan. It provides the freedom to travel at your own pace and discover hidden gems along the way. For reliable campervan rentals, visit Campervan New Zealand.
