A village set amidst hot thermal spring’s and Lush green surroundings, the living thermal village of Whakarewarewa is situated in the heart of Rotorua. The Wahiaos as they are referred to the residents of this gorgeous village have entertained and welcomed guests to their village with open arms for at least 200 years, displaying local culture and tradition willingly to the few hundreds of people that travel to the area within a year. Since the early 1800s the villagers have shared their proud heritage with the world while entertaining travellers in their homes and sharing their geothermal existence and fascinating lifestyles.
After several disputes between the New Zealand government and the Wahiao tribal leaders, the villagers have now taken full authority of tourism in the area and provide guided tours of the surroundings. These warm people have a heart warming slogan of togetherness that goes as follows. “Our uniqueness we share, our hearts we give and our environment we protect!” Their amazing hospitality is quick to fascinate travellers.
It’s a great village to learn how to live in harmony with nature. The traditions and culture that has been passed on and upheld for so long never seizes to amaze you throughout your tour of the area. The guided tours offered here go on to explain how the Maori tribes moved from the historic areas of Hawaikii to Aotearoa and the retention of the original Maori Language referred to as Kohanga Reo.
The cultural performances are performed twice daily and the ticket issued at the entrance to the village includes the viewing of these performances. Watch the Karanga performed by the women of the tribe and be greeted by the original welcome speech known as the Whaikorero. And where else would you be able to experience the original version of the famous Haka performed as a physiological and physical preparation for battle.
At the end of a long day of associating Maori culture and natural wonders of the area retire to a Rotorua hotel that promises nothing but pure comfort. A hotel in Rotorua that is well known for its amazing hospitality and world class standards is the Millennium Hotel Rotorua.
