Overview

This Māori Whakatau Welcome introduces you to New Zealand’s indigenous culture through a traditional ceremony held in either Wanaka or Queenstown. The experience lasts between 40 minutes and one hour and includes private transportation. During the welcome, you will be greeted with a Wero or challenge performed by a Māori warrior using a Taiaha spear. The ceremony moves through the main parts of the pōwhiri, the Māori formal welcome, emphasizing the cultural values of Manaakitanga (hospitality) and Kaitiakitanga (guardianship of the land). Although you might start as strangers, the ceremony aims to end with everyone considered whanau, or family. This event focuses on connecting visitors not only with the land but also with the people who shape the culture of Wanaka and Queenstown. The operator requires a minimum of four participants for each Whakatau; if this is not met, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund. Souvenir photos, an authentic Māori bone carving, and a WanaHaka tea towel are not included but available to purchase separately.

Highlights

Itinerary

Meeting point

Languages

Cancellation policy

• Cancel at least 24 hours before start for a full refund.

Additional info