Tour Description:

The Living Māori Village is the oldest “whanau” (family) owned and operated tourist attraction in New Zealand, and New Zealand’s first recognised tourism operator in New Zealand with guiding of international visitors to the World Famous Pink and White Terraces at Lake Tarawera in the early 1800’s. 

Whakarewarewa or Whaka as it is known, is an authentic Māori village which sits in a valley on an active geothermal plateau.

 The valley has in excess of 500 hot pools & springs and at least 65 geyser vents, the most famous being the “POHUTU GEYSER” which explodes up to 30 metres in the air around 20 times per day. 

Other geysers include the prince of wales feathers and the papakura geyser. A number of geothermal pools have also been named by the people, these include papakohuru (murderous rippling waters) and Korotiotio (the grumpy old man).  The Tuhourangi – Ngati Wahiao people who reside in the village have been guiding and proudly sharing their history and heritage with visitors, dignitaries and royalty from around the world for over 200 years. 

International dignitaries who have visited Whakarewarewa include Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Phillip, as well as Eleanor Roosevelt the US First Lady. 

Steeped in Māori culture, history and tradition the Living Māori Village showcases a way of life that has not changed in hundreds of years, despite the modern appliances and amenities. 

The Village is currently home to over 20 families (4th to 5th generation), with daily life for the Villagers including cooking in the geothermal pools and steam vents, heating their homes from the geothermal waters as well as bathing in the geothermal waters which is said to be both therapeutic and relaxing. 

As a tourism business they continue to work with GNS Sciences to get a better understanding of the geology and geothermal aspects of there valley. There aim is to educate there people and the wider community about the importance of working in harmony with our environment to ensure it is protected for future generations. One of their core values is that of Manaakitanga, recognising the importance of hospitality in ensuring all our visitors enjoy a world class experience. 

• Adult $155 NZD        Youth (9yrs -16yrs) $120.00nzd             Child (0yrs - 8yrs) $83.00nzd
• There is a minimum charge of eight adults for this tour!
• This tour is designed to be ideal for large groups of eight and up to an unlimited number of Passengers
• Price below is for up to 16 passengers if you have larger numbers please click the reserve by email button for quotation
•  Booking in advance is essential! to secure your seats.