Elizabeth BoatmanAfter exploring Rotorua and the thermal areas, we joined an afternoon tour group heading to Te Puia. Once again, this involved a van ride out of town. I hoped this would be our Maori experience. Yay, it was, and so much more!
Geysers
After a short time in a fabulous gift shop, we joined our guide for the walk through the forest to the geysers.
In the distance, on the left, you can see the main building of Te Puia. That’s where the gift shop is! The entire Rotorua area is volcanic, part of a band that stretches from Ruapehu to White Island.
Maori Village and Museum
Around 5:00 in the afternoon, we headed back up the hill to visit the National Wood Carving School. This school specializes in Maori arts of all kinds.
We saw several examples of native carving, such as these:
This school is a fabulous place where young Maori can learn about the traditional arts. It also teaches textile crafts, such as the making of reed skirts.
Oh, for the record, one can buy lovey carved pieces in the gift shop. I warn you, some can be very expensive!
Hangi
Of course, no Maori experience is of consequence if I don’t get pavlova. We had a lovely buffet meal as our hangi dinner. This meringue dessert is fabulous!
At night
We ended our Te Puia adventure with a second visit after dark. The geysers are gorgeous.
To see more Te Puia images, please click here.
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