Te Puia – Te Ra Guided Experience

The Maori tradition of guiding at Te Puia is something the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute prides itself on. Many of the guides you meet can link themselves to Rotorua’s earliest guides with stories handed down for generations.

A day of excitement, culture, kai and connection…

For generations, Te Puia has welcomed manuhiri (visitors) from all over the world to explore the magic hidden within Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley.

Come face to face with the biggest, naturally active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere Pōhutu Geyser, and enjoy the up-close experience with the New Zealand Kiwi, in our brand-new Kiwi Conservation Centre. Be mesmerized by exploding mud pools all throughout the valley and gaze at beautifully crafted Māori-made artwork and sculptures visible throughout Te Puia.

Watch carvers and weavers demonstrate their skills at the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, and hear our guides share stories passed down from their ancestors. Our wānanga (school) is a lighthouse for indigenous culture, worldwide. We are honoured to open the doors to our wānanga and show you the work of internationally recognised artists.

Fast Facts:

• Te Puia will be closed 20th and 23rd of August.
• Te Puia operates 7 days a week from 9am to 4pm.
• Please allow a minimum of 90 minutes for Te Rā Guided Experience. Tours depart on the hour, please check in 15 mins prior. All tours operate on a shared tour basis, with our 36 seat electric passenger shuttle delivering guests from the geyser terrace back to the cultural centre.
• After making your purchase, you will receive a confirmation booking voucher which can be handed to the reception desk at the attraction or activity.