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High above the valleys of Tairawhiti, the peak of Maunga Hikurangi. Take a trek up to the peak where the sun first rises on New Zealand’s mainland, and a sacred place to the Ngati Porou people. Soak up the incredible atmosphere as the dawn breaks over the horizon and experience Maori history and legends at the nine whakairo (carvings) – each one telling a story that your expert Ngati Porou guide will walk you through. The roots of this incredible place can be traced all the way back to the Maori creation story, where Maui slowed the sun and gifted people fire. Participate in karakia, a traditional Maori blessing, and plant a seedling native to the area as part of their eco-project.
Choose between their Te Urunga-Tu Sunrise experience where you’ll set off under the stars in time to see the sun rise over Mount Hikurangi, or their Haramai Day Time experience where you can explore the Mountain peak in the afternoon. Both tours you’ll be driven up the mountain in a 4WD vehicle, and the tour lasts about 4 hours.
Close to the the rural community of Ruatoria, there’s plenty more to discover in this breathtaking part of New Zealand, and the team at Maunga Hikurangi recommend coming down the day before your Hikurangi tour to explore the rest of the area. They also have links to several different options for accommodation if you’re looking to drive up the day before your trip and stay over night – as many people prefer to do.
