I’ve been fascinated by Maori culture ever since I saw Whale Rider—it’s one of my favorite travel films. The rich history, the striking tattoos, the energetic dances, their beliefs, and their generally laid-back vibe all captivate me.
The Maori, New Zealand’s indigenous people, have faced significant struggles since European settlers arrived in the late 17th century. The impact was severe, and it’s only been in the last century that the Maori have started to rebuild and reclaim their identity. Today, they make up about 17% of the population, and while they continue to protect and celebrate their culture, they still fight for equality and recognition in New Zealand society.
One of the best ways to experience Maori culture firsthand is by watching a cultural performance. These shows give you a glimpse into the traditions and roots of modern New Zealand, and I always make sure to see one whenever I visit. They’re truly unforgettable!
The History of the Maori
The Maori are known as a proud warrior people, and they’re especially proud of the fact that they were never defeated by the English settlers. It’s a point of pride they’re happy to share.
The Maori first arrived in New Zealand from Polynesia in the 13th century, traveling in large ocean-going canoes that were 20–40 meters long. Over time, they settled across the islands and thrived in the land’s natural abundance.
When Europeans made contact in the 17th century, things quickly turned sour. Conflicts arose, both between the Maori and settlers, and within different Maori groups. Diseases brought by the Europeans, like influenza, measles, and smallpox, had devastating effects on the Maori population. By the 1870s, the Maori population had been decimated by as much as 50%.
The signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 marked a turning point. It gave the Maori some sovereignty over their land, which helped improve relations between them and the colonists.
Today, there are about 900,000 Maori in New Zealand, making up nearly 20% of the population. However, they still face significant social and economic challenges. For instance, over half of New Zealand’s prison population is Maori, and their life expectancy is notably lower than that of other groups in the country—on average, Maori men and women die 7–8 years younger than the rest of the population.
Fascinating Facts About the Maori
Here are a few things I find particularly fascinating about the Maori, and which deepened my interest in their culture and history:
- Te Reo: The Maori language, called Te Reo, was the dominant language in New Zealand until the 1860s.
- The Haka: Before battle, the Maori would perform a ceremonial war dance known as the Haka—you’ll probably see this at any cultural show.
- Oral Tradition: Before European arrival, the Maori had no written language. Their history and knowledge were passed down orally.
- Tattooing: Tattoos (known as moko) are a big part of Maori culture. Traditionally, they symbolize a person’s status or rank.
- Hangi: Traditional Maori food, called hangi, is slow-cooked in the ground using the natural geothermal heat of the land.
- Marae: To enter a Maori meeting ground, or marae, visitors must first be welcomed through a ceremony called Powhiri, which includes chants and challenges from a warrior, signifying peace and respect.
Where to See a Maori Cultural Show
When I first visited New Zealand, I was determined to learn more about the Maori. Rotorua is one of the best places for this. It’s home to many cultural shows and educational tours. A Maori local in the Bay of Islands even told me that Rotorua is the best place to immerse yourself in Maori culture.
The area is rich in cultural heritage, with plenty of traditional villages to visit, geothermal geysers to explore, and fascinating performances to enjoy. It’s the perfect place to dive deeper into Maori history and experience a cultural show firsthand.
The cultural tours in Rotorua are fairly similar, although some offer better food, shorter or longer tours, or different performance styles. On my visit, I went with the Te Pa Tu tour (formerly Tamaki Maori Village), and I was really impressed. It’s regularly rated as one of the best shows in New Zealand—and even the world!
The shows typically last about four hours and include a traditional four-course meal, ceremonies, and performances in a beautiful forest amphitheater. Tickets cost around 260 NZD per person, with shows running several times a week (daily during peak season) at 6 pm.
Another great option in Rotorua is Mitai Maori Village. It offers a very similar experience, and many people say it’s just as good. Tickets here cost 155 NZD, and the show lasts about 3 hours.
While the cultural shows are fantastic, they do cater to tourists, so if you want a more in-depth experience of Maori culture, you should also check out the Rotorua Museum. Here, you can explore important Maori artifacts and learn more about their history. Just keep in mind the museum is currently under renovation due to earthquake damage, so be sure to check before you visit.
If you can’t make it to Rotorua, you can also find Maori cultural shows in Auckland or the Bay of Islands, which is also home to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds—an important historical site where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed.
For an alternative, the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington is another great place to learn about the Maori and their culture.
No trip to New Zealand is complete without learning about the Maori and their integral role in the country’s history. The more you understand about them, the more you’ll appreciate New Zealand as a whole.
