Maori Carvings in New Zealand

Arrive in Waipoua on New Zealand’s North Island. Have dinner at a local restaurant and get acquainted with your guide.

You’ll spend the day walking through the Waipoua Forest to learn how nature intersects with Maori culture. This area is one of the best places to see kauri trees, which are used by the Maori to make intricately carved canoes, weapons and meeting houses. You’ll also see the Tane Mahuta, New Zealand’s largest tree, as well as a variety of native plants and animals.

Learn about New Zealand’s unique culture by visiting Maori villages at Te Puia, Tamaki Maori Village and Mitai Aaori Village. You’ll get to experience performances, native cuisine and crafts as well as the geysers and bubbling mud of geothermal springs. Visit the intricate wood carvings at the Rotowhio Marae (meeting house), which combines carving, decor, architecture and sculpture. You might even spot a native and endangered kiwi while wandering about. The village is devoted to recycling, sustainability and nature conservation.

The New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute is located at the village. Students learn weaving, stone and bone carving and other craft techniques from master craftsmen. The school supports Ka Pai Kai Rotorua, which is a local non-profit that provides free lunches for Rotorua school children.

Today is the inspiration for, and the highlight of your itinerary. You’ll visit the Maori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupo at Mine Bay, about a one-hour drive from Rotorua. Only accessible by boat, there’s a carving of Ngatoroirangi on the face of the cliff that was created by Matahi Brighton in 1976. The carving celebrates important elements of Maori history.

Waitomo Cave was first explored by the Maori people in 1887. The cave’s spiral entry, graceful limestone formations and underground waterfalls make it a popular attraction. Glow worms reflect light onto the water below in this solar-powered cave. Ruakuri Cave was discovered 400 to 500 years ago while Aranui Cave was discovered in 1910.

Today, you’ll visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. It has more than 30,000 Maori artifacts, including weapons, apparel and other items that tell the story of New Zealand and its native cultures. You’ll also get to experience the Wellington Cable Car. This funicular railway dates to 1902 and offers stunning panoramic views of the area.

On your last morning in New Zealand, stroll along the pedestrian mall on Cuba Street or enjoy views of the colorful harbor.