Visit a Maori Ancestral House in Whakatane

Visit Mataatua during your visit to New Zealand and learn all about the incredible story of this Maori ancestral house! Based on New Zealand’s North Island in the town of Whakatane, Mataatua is a fully carved Maori ancestral house of the Ngati Awa people. Begin your visit by being welcomed into the sacred house through the ancient ritual of pōwhiri. You can then witness the incredible stories and legends that are carved into the walls, followed by an invitation to try the traditional kawakawa tea and kumara brownie!

Where can I learn about Maori heritage?

Visit Mataatua, an ancestral house that travelled the world and came home again!

This is an activity that is full of culture and heritage that will open your mind to the incredible history of Maori tradition and the story of the Ngati Awa people. On your visit, you will learn how this amazing ancestral house travelled the world for over a century before returning home. The tour also includes a DVD screening and interactive culture workshops! Perfect to share with friends or family, this experience is one that will have you in awe at the architecture and tradition. So don’t miss out, add this to your Stack today!

  • Meet Mataatua Express Tour | $49.00
  • Know Mataatua Cultural Immersion Experience | $125.00
  • April – November | Monday – Sunday | 09:00 – 14:00
  • December – March | Monday – Sunday | 09:00 – 16:00