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Offered languages
- English
Step into the heart of Te Matau-a-Māui (Hawke’s Bay) on this authentic cultural journey. This tour offers a rare opportunity to connect deeply with the land, people, and rich heritage of Māori culture through expert storytelling and visits to significant sites.
Walk in the footsteps of ancestors who shaped Ahuriri (Napier) and gain a profound understanding of Ngāti Kahungunu, one of Aotearoa’s largest iwi. Experience intimate stories, sacred legends, and historical events that bring the past vividly to life.
This deeply immersive tour isn't just sightseeing, but a powerful connection to Māori identity, tradition, and spirituality. Perfect for those seeking a meaningful and memorable cultural experience.
Nau mai, haere mai—come, journey with us.
Explore Ōtātara Pā
Hear about the Battle of Ōmarunui
Hear the Legend of Pania of the Reef
Visit Ngā Pou o Heretaunga
Visit to Te Mata Peak
Small group tour
To request Alternative start times or customisations, reach out to us after booking.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
We will meet you at your chosen pick-up location. The driver guide will hold a sign with your name and tour name written on it.
* To request Alternative start times or tour customisations, reach out to us.
This tour requires a minimum number of guests to operate. If minimum numbers are not met, the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled. In this case, we’ll contact you with alternative dates, tours or offer a full refund.
Itinerary
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1
Visit the historic Ōtātara Pā, Te Matau-a-Māui’s (Hawke’s Bay) largest Māori pā site. Hear the stories of this significant place with our deeply knowledgeable guide. - This tour requires guests to walk up a hill to the Pā site, approximately 1km of walking - Guests must wear covered shoes
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
2Napier
Journey through Napier, Hastings & Havelock North with stops along the way that connects you to the stories you will be told. Through incredible storytelling, learn the famous Battle of Ōmarunui. Learn the legend of Pania of the Reef, the sea maiden who watches over the shores of Napier, and learn the deeply symbolic legend of Te Mata Peak, our local maunga, who watches over our whakapapa, showing how his sacrifice is carved into our very landscape. This tour is your gateway into a world of tradition, mythology, and living culture—a powerful, moving experience that will stay with you long after your visit ends.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
Ngā Pou o Heretaunga are a unique collection of 18 pou tūpuna ancestral posts whose stories span 20 generations. Aligned with the rising of Matariki above Civic Square, each pou faces its respective marae, acknowledging Heretaunga’s 25 active marae — 18 represented here — and the enduring significance of the stars in guiding seasonal life and leadership.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Te Mata Peak
Our journey takes us to the summit of Te Mata Peak, where sweeping views stretch across vineyards, orchards and the coastline of Heretaunga. Beyond its breathtaking beauty, this sacred landscape carries deep cultural meaning. According to Māori legend, the peak represents Te Mata o Rongokako — the sleeping giant — a chief who lay down and became part of the land. We visit not only for the panoramic views, but to honour the story that connects the people, the whenua (land), and the identity of Hawke’s Bay.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Service animals allowed
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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