Wanting to experience some of the Maori culture on our visit, we booked this outing. We were picked up at our hotel by an old coach operated by the tour company and taken to the village a short distance from the town, on the journey the driver entertained everyone with community singing, When we arrived at the village everything was very well organised, we were split up into small groups and led around to see different aspects of the Maori culture, and crafts. At one station volunteers were taught how to do the traditional Haka Maori greeting. We were then led into a large dining room, where we were served with a buffet of delicious food and drink, while being entertained by Maori musicians and singers. We would thoroughly recommend this.
If your looking for an introduction into Maori culture then this cultural experience is a great place to start.
Entering the village inself is enjoyable and effort has been taken to give the crowd a unique experience.
As a group you are moved through various learning stations with opurtunities to partcipate in various activities.
Youll see how your meal is prepared before a pre-dinner show.
If your looking for an indepth experience then try a museum followed by a book. But if your keen to have some fun while getting a better understanding of Maori culture then I couldnt recomed this experience more. Its a great introduction!
I have been to "Hawaiian Luaus" in the past, but this is not just another luau. If you are near Rotorua, do not miss this opportunity. This was a fun, educational and respectful glimpse into the Maori way of life followed by a tasty dinner. The event is run by native Maori families, starting with the bus driver. Prior to getting to the village the driver gives a history of the Maori people and a brief language lesson. Our driver, emphasized the need for respect (no laughing or smirking) when we were met by the warriors at the village entrance. Prior to entering the village, the warriors feigned attacks and stuck their tongues out in the Maori tradition. My hat is off to Captain Cook. I doubt I would have had the courage to stand still while this traditional Maori introduction was taking place.
The whole event was tastefully done, beginning with the bus ride and ending in the wonderful meal.
To the Tamaki Maori Village, "Kia ora" for an extraordinary evening.
All the best, from "Chief John"
If you really want to experience a real Maori connection while in Rotorua, you have to book with Tamaki Maori Village.
We were picked up at our hotel on time and greeted with a friendly smile. Our bus guide Tappi was absolutely funny that kept us entertained while heading to the Village.
When the event started at the Village, not only could you feel the passion, but also the strong cultural connection from start to finish in every event presented to us.
The Hangi dinner was well presented and was absolutely one of the most delicious meals we had while in Rotorua. The desert was heavenly too that delightfully capped off our night.
Prior to booking I did some research on youtube. Its the passion and conviction the dancers had that drew me to booking with Tamaki. I'm glad I did, it was one of our highlights while in Rotorua. Tamaki Maori Village is an excellent cultural experience you can't miss.
We had a brilliant time in the village which was topped of brilliantly by Wallace our bus driver. He had the whole bus in tears of laughter and id highly recommend doing the evening show in the village. It's informative and the food was very good. I would gladly return or recommend it to a friend. Great fun
