In the presence of one of Te Puia's most experienced guides, you'll explore this highly informative and interactive complex. Te Puia is one of New Zealand's leading attractions and comprises the M膩ori Arts and Crafts Institute, and Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, as well as being home to a kiwi house and staging many excellent cultural performances. The tour can of course be adapted to suit the personal needs and preferences of the group, but here we outline a suggested itinerary.
Beginning the day with a p艒whiri welcoming ceremony, you'll experience traditional M膩ori song and dance. Your guide will then take you away from the crowds to the M膩ori Arts and Crafts Institute, where you'll learn about the carving trainee program the centre offers. Take the chance to watch master carvers discuss this ancient art with trainees and demonstrate its current practice. You will also learn about traditional and contemporary weaving, participating in the creation of a simple woven article. Next on to view the spectacular geothermal valley with its geysers and boiling mud pools —
a real Rotorua icon. Finally, take a stroll through the kiwi enclosure, hopefully catching a glimpse of this rare, elusive bird.