Guided Tours

Mitai Maori Village: Cultural Experience & Buffet Dinner

Be regaled with creative storytelling around the history, culture, and traditions of this village.

After a welcoming ceremony, a traditional meal is unveiled and set to slow cook in an earth oven for consumption at the end of your visit.

You will be privy to warriors paddling down the Wai-o-Whiro stream by canoe, and cultural performances galore.

Stroll through nature and see an ancient fortified village, the spring of Te Puna Tapu o Tuhoe, and glow worms illuminating the forest.

Discover the ways of living, natural resources, and survival techniques used by indigenous peoples.

Wind down with authentic food cooked in a hāngī pit, and engage in a lively question and answer session.

3-hour experience at Mitai Maori Village

Complete buffet hāngī dinner experience.

Cultural Maori show and welcoming ceremony

Q and A session

Guided bush walk

Entry to Te Puna Tapu o Tuhoe spring

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

46 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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Guests from Australia, United Kingdom, United States and over 10 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Roshelle S
Group
Verified booking
2 days ago
We wanted to experience traditional Maori hangi and witness the magic of the Haka. We were excited the not only see the Haka, but we got to watch the war canoe come in with warriors onboard. The Hangi was mouth wateringly delicious and very filling, oh did I mention the dessert...OMG! The family histories were shared with us, lots of laughter. I would highly recommend spending your time here, you won't regret it.
Karen I
Couple
Verified booking
4 days ago
Very informative and entertaining, especially the HAKA. The host was very knowledgeable and conveyed his passion and culture extremely well.
Mireille M
Family
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
This was an amazing experience! Highly recommend it if you are looking for a full Maori experience. Plus the buffet was fabulous.
Seydoux J
Group
Verified booking
Aug 2026
The walk in the bush with the gloworms
Julian P
Couple
Verified booking
Aug 2026
The songs of the Maori and the food

Start your evening by being welcomed to the Mitai Maori Village, where a traditional ceremony awaits. You’ll witness warriors paddle down the Wai-o-Whiro stream in authentic canoes, offering a glimpse into ancient Māori life. The evening includes the unveiling of your hangi dinner—cooked underground using hot stones. Watch as steam rises and the meal is unearthed before your eyes.

As you enjoy your buffet feast, which features everything from succulent lamb to flavorful seafood, the cultural show begins. You'll see captivating performances, including the famous haka, poi dances, and Māori songs, all presented with passion and pride. Throughout the night, you’ll have opportunities to ask questions and engage with the performers, deepening your understanding of Māori traditions.

The experience includes a nature walk with a guide who will explain how the Māori people lived in harmony with their environment in the ancient fortified village. At night, the forest lights up with native glowworms, adding a magical touch to this cultural experience.

What to bring

Dress in layers for changing weather conditions. Bring a hat for sun protection, a jacket in case of rain, and an insect repellant. Comfortable shoes with good traction are essential for the bush walk.

What's not allowed

Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted inside. There is a bar available onsite.

Accessibility

The forest walk has limitations for wheelchair accessibility. The stairs, uneven surfaces, and platform-based canoe viewing may pose challenges for wheelchair users.

Additional information

Maori Kai often includes ingredients that may not meet all dietary needs, such as vegan options, though some requests can be accommodated.

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.

Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.

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