Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Experience Maori Culture and Traditions
Embark on this journey as you partake in the revelation of the traditional hangi feast and relish for lunch in buffet style. Be a witness to the fierce warriors navigating the war canoe along the tranquil waters of Wai-o-Whiro stream and immerse yourself in rich cultural performances such as Wero, Pōwhiri (Traditional Māori Welcome), Waiata (Song), Mōteatea (traditional chant), Poi, Haka and much more. Embrace nature and explore the echoes of the ancient reconstructed fortified village site unravelling the ways of life of the Māori and the natural spring Te Wai Whakarukuhanga a Atua (The waters of the Gods) also known as Te Puna Tapu o Tuhoe (a famous ancestor and tribe).
Nau mai, haere mai, whakatau mai – come and experience our world…
Specialized infant seats are available
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note there is a small walk through the forest which has some steps and uneven ground in some areas
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately - warm comfortable clothing and walking footwear
Wheelchair accessibility is limited for the 'bush walk' - exit into the forest is via stairs. Viewing of the waka (canoe) is from a platform and you can go a short distance into the forest to view the old pā (village) and see the sacred spring below the forest.
Anyone can access
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Mitai Maori Village
Discover Our Unforgettable Mitai Maori Village Experience in Rotorua! Voyage of Māori Heritage with Mitai Māori Village signifies an immersive adventure designed to take participants on a meaningful exploration of the core intrinsic elements of Māori culture.
Wai o Whiro Stream – Dynamic scene of warriors on the waka taua (war canoe)
Walk through nature to see sacred spring
View the unveiling of traditional earth-cooked hangi and buffet dinner
Written Guide: English
2 hour daytime Cultural performance including haka & Poi
Spring Water / Tea & Coffee
Certified English Speaking Guide
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Hangi Buffet Meal
Cultural Experience: Evening Performance, Guided Tour, Glow Worms and Hangi Buffet Meal.
Pick Up not included. meet at Mitai Maori Village
50 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Erin C,,Dec 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
Nice performance, lunch was pretty good. For the 11am timeslot, it was very warm and hard to see the dance in the current location.
Katherine S,,Dec 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
This was a great introduction to the Maori people. The vibe was very welcoming, and I appreciated their openness to our questions about the culture. All the activities listed were fun to watch and experience. Their singing was beautiful, and it was very cool to see some examples of how they would use their different weapons. Also learning more about their different facial markings and what they represent, their history, and how they go about making peace with outsiders was really intresting. You don't often get to learn about others cultures in such a safe open way. This was a very cool experience, and I definitely would recommend!
Anne F,,Dec 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
Lots of interesting information about maori life in the past and present, and how young people can find their roots in this time. Delicious food
Nancy H,,Dec 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
Very interesting to hear explanations of the culture and beliefs of the Mitai Maori Village. Great tour and show. We also had a wonderful buffet, the food was excellent! Well worth it to take this tour.
Meredith W,,Nov 26, 2025
- Review from Viator
We had a Wonderful experience. It was an Amazing meal!!! We highly recommend this to anyone visiting the area.
B5602FAalicet,,Nov 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had an amazing time learning about the history and culture surrounding the village and the sacred spring. The demonstrations and performances were incredible to watch, the food was also very tasty. Truly an unforgettable experience.


Maps16770174275,,Nov 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
This is a wonderful and informative experience. So nice to understand more of the Maori Culture and enjoy at same time. The walk around was lovely, watching the Waka come thru was stunning. Then a beautiful show of singing, and explanations of customs which made it great. A very moving experience. Then back to our table for the Hangi, our lunch. It is so very delicious. You won't regret coming to this Enjoyable show. Thanks heaps.

698marilynv,,Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Went on the Living Village at Whaka instead. Mitai Maori was completely unwilling to accommodate allergies. Whaka village was awesome.
Sharon A,,Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Fantastic experience, the cultural activities were moved into the forest after a fire the night before but we thought this made the experience even better. The hosts could not do enough to ensure we still enjoyed the experience.
628tessp,,Apr 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Beautiful experience. The village itself is well looked after and alive with culture and history. We’ve learnt more about Maori practice and traditions here than we have in our 20+ years of living in NZ. We thoroughly enjoyed the performances and speeches and the Hāngi was delicious, with plenty of food for seconds. Perfect for a sunny day or wet weekend.
Operated by Mitai Maori Village