Tū Te Ihi - Winter Matariki Celebration

Duration: Approximately 4 hours
Destination: Rotorua, New Zealand
Season Winter: May – October

Experience the rich traditions of the Māori during the Tū Te Ihi Winter Matariki Celebration at Te Pā Tū in Rotorua, New Zealand. This immersive evening event, set in the 1800s, celebrates the Matariki star cluster and the Māori New Year.

 Complimentary Return Transport: Begin your journey with a comfortable coach transfer from central Rotorua to Te Pā Tū.

 Ahi Tuku (Fire Ceremony) Welcome: Upon arrival, receive a traditional Māori welcome through the Ahi Tuku fire ceremony, symbolizing warmth and hospitality.

 Kai Horotai (Seasonal Canapés): Savor indigenous canapés, steaming kawakawa tea, and hearty boil-up broth amidst the serene forest setting.

 Fireside Wānanga: Engage in fireside conversations, learning about Māori history, traditional games, musical instruments, and cultural traditions.

 Matariki-Inspired Four-Course Māori Fusion Feast: Enjoy a meticulously curated four-course meal, featuring local delicacies such as duck, whitebait, traditional hāngī (earth-cooked lamb and vegetables), spit-roasted pork, and kumara crème brûlée, each dish inspired by a Matariki star.

 Complimentary Aperitif: Conclude your meal with a complimentary chef-selected aperitif.

 Kapa Haka Performance: Delight in traditional Māori performing arts, including songs and dances, presented during the dinner service.

 Kōrero with Hosts: Engage in meaningful conversations with your Māori hosts, deepening your understanding of their culture and heritage.

 Poroporoaki (Farewell Ceremony): Conclude the evening with a traditional farewell ceremony, reflecting on the shared experiences of the night.

Inclusions:
• Three hours of storytelling, connection, and kai (cuisine)
• Kai horotai, forest canapes (indigenous and introduced ingredients)
• Complimentary chef choice aperitif
• Matariki inspired and curated 4 course Māori fusion menu
• Traditional in-ground Hāngī (lamb and vegetables)
• Complimentary return transport from central city
• Children welcome
• Dietary options: Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Gluten free (cannot guarantee celiac safe)
• Licensed bar: Māori wine pairing and non-alcoholic Māori beverage pairings available
• Wheelchair and child buggy accessible.

Please refer to our Standard Booking Conditions for booking terms and conditions.