Alongside our Ōhiwa Harbour Cruise & Oyster Experience, we offer a range of seafood, burgers, and mouthwatering meals.
Maori Culture
Māori are the tangata whenua (indigenous people of the land) of New Zealand and their culture is an integral part of Opotiki.
The local Maori people delight in sharing their heritage with visitors and will enrich your experience wherever you go. Encounter the warmth, proud spirit, deep sense of history and quick humour that is this culture. Enjoy the legendary hospitality our people are renowned for. Meet the house. Meet the people.
Maori Culture in Opotiki – Discover the Rich Heritage of the Bay of Plenty
Opotiki is a gateway to experiencing authentic Maori culture, with deep-rooted traditions, stories, and practices that have shaped the region for centuries. From ancestral landmarks and cultural tours to local iwi experiences, Opotiki offers visitors the chance to connect with and learn about the rich Maori heritage of the area.
Featured Maori Culture Listings
Maori Culture Map
Explore Maori History and Landmarks
Opotiki is home to several significant Maori landmarks and historical sites. Visitors can explore ancient pa sites, waahi tapu (sacred places), and marae (meeting grounds) that hold cultural importance to the local iwi (tribes). These sites provide a unique insight into the region’s rich Maori history and spiritual connections to the land.
Cultural Tours and Experiences
Opotiki offers guided Maori cultural tours where visitors can learn about the traditions, customs, and history of the local iwi. These tours often include storytelling, visits to marae, and opportunities to participate in traditional Maori practices such as carving, weaving, and haka (war dance). It’s an enriching way to experience the living culture of the area.
Traditional Maori Arts and Crafts
Opotiki is also a great place to explore Maori arts and crafts, including traditional wood carving, weaving, and tattooing (moko). Visitors can see local artisans at work, purchase handmade crafts, or even try their hand at creating their own Maori-inspired art. These experiences offer a deeper connection to the cultural heritage of the region.
Maori Festivals and Events
Throughout the year, Opotiki hosts Maori festivals and events that celebrate local iwi traditions, music, and dance. These festivals are an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the area, with performances of kapa haka (Maori performing arts), live music, and food stalls offering traditional Maori kai (food).