Te Puia
Tuku Iho Trail
Help code: 367D-D62F
- Premium guided journey
- Explore hidden geothermal areas, bushland trails and cultural sites
- Geothermal traditions & legends
- Learn ancient cooking methods, taste food from a boiling ngāwhā, and hear the tale of Hatupatu and Kurungaituku
- Cultural performance
- End with pōhiri, waiata, mōteatea, poi and haka in our traditionally carved meeting house
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Product information
Embark on a 2 hour 45 minute premium experience that takes you to hidden areas of our valley. Discover how our ancestors have utilised the mineral-rich geothermal pools for centuries, using them for both cooking and bathing.
Savour samples of sweetcorn in an ancient boiling ngāwhā (hot pool) while hearing the captivating tale of Hatupatu, a brave warrior who escaped the mythical birdwoman, Kurungaituku. This legendary escape, whispered far and wide, holds a secret known only to Hatupatu: amidst the peril, a fleeting love was born—an enchanted bond.
A moderate level of fitness is required to enjoy a scenic walk-through enchanting bushland, along winding geothermal sinter paths and into the heart of the mysterious geothermal valley. Your journey includes the Kiwi Conservation Centre, the sacred Rotowhio marae grounds, and the renowned New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute.
Finish your tour with a captivating cultural performance in our beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. It will include a pōhiri (traditional Māori welcome), waiata (song), mōteatea (traditional chant), poi and haka.
Note
- This experience is only available in summer, with bookings open from 29th September 2025.
Highlights
- Premium guided journey – Explore hidden geothermal areas, bushland trails, and cultural sites including Rotowhio marae, the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, plus the Kiwi Conservation Centre.
- Geothermal traditions & legends – Learn ancient cooking methods, taste food from a boiling ngāwhā, and hear the tale of Hatupatu and Kurungaituku.
- Cultural performance – End with pōhiri, waiata, mōteatea, poi and haka in our traditionally carved meeting house.
Time
- Operates Monday to Sunday
- Tuku Iho Trail departs at 10:15am and 1:30pm
- Availability is subject to change. If this tour time is unavailable, you will be offered the next available session time
Duration
- This experience is approximately 2 hours 45 minutes long
Location
- Te Puia is located at 20 Hemo Road, Rotorua
Booking Information
- Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
- Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience
- Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
- Offers and inclusions are subject to change without notice
- We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 48 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements
- For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
- The operator reserves the right to update their rates without notice
“Journey back in time to a pre-European lifestyle experience of customs and traditions while ambling down the pathways of the rediscovered village as it comes alive to the sound and activities of tribal songs and dances.”
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