Travelscoop

Taiamai Tours has launched a new double hull Maori waka. With a carrying capacity of up to 50 people per tour, Taiamai Tours can now offer tour groups an exclusive Maori cultural, eco, adventure and spiritual experience during their Bay of Islands stay. Te Hoenga Waka tour is an interactive and educational waka experience with customers learning different paddle techniques, waka manoeuvres and traditional chants. On the first leg of the voyage clients paddle on the Waitangi River to Haruru Falls. On the second leg, they pass the family Marae, nestled on the riverbank, and meet with local tribal elders before returning to Waitangi. The tour is available for FITs (16 passengers max) or groups. www.taiamaitours.co.nz

Details:
This cultural tour activity packed with unique surprises is an interactive and educational Waka experience with customers learning different paddle techniques, Waka manoeuvres, traditional chants and Haka while absorbing the breath taking natural beauty of the Waitangi river eco systems and surrounding landscapes. If you are of light to medium fitness, are not afraid to paddle alongside Maori warriors and can climb aboard a Maori Canoe then this is the once in a lifetime experience for you.

The first leg of our voyage has our ornate waka gliding up the beautiful tidal estuaries of the Waitangi river. In no time you come to realize this tour activity is more than just a product, it is indeed an experience unlike any other in New Zealand. Talk and chat with your Maori host while we share with you, our personal tribal and family histories from an ancient past. With the splendour of panoramic views, vibrant and stunning colours from the native forest stretching the length of the river banks and beyond, the first leg of our voyage culminates with our arrival in the pool of the sacred and spiritual Haruru waterfalls. The magic of this place is brought to life by the skilful oratory of Maori story tellers who accompany you.

The second leg of our voyage has us paddling the river passing by our family Marae and sacred shrine of worship, nestled on the riverbank of the Waitangi. If fortune is with us we will meet with local tribal elders and members at the Marae. Time for a quick hello and some photo opportunities then we must continue our voyage. Observe the native bird and fish wildlife, or maybe stop by a fishing net and check to see if there is anything in it? All of a sudden the voyage draws close to the end therefore our chief will once again invite to you to practice your new found Maori Waka skills ensuring you will never ever forget this spiritual and special activity.  From the start of your voyage until the end you will learn so much by being a part of, rather than just a mere observer.

Departing from the next to the Waitangi bridge and only 100 meters from Copthorne – Bay of Islands, with a maximum of 16 people per Waka, this 2 ½ activity is your only opportunity to participate in an exclusive, “once in a lifetime Maori cultural experience during your once in a lifetime New Zealand holiday!” 

• Experience the power and spirituality of our Culture
• Exclusive participation in Ngapuhi tribal customs and traditions
• Exclusive photo opportunities throughout your voyage
• Avoid the hustle and bustle of 100s of other tourist
• View native bird and fish wild life
• Only 16 people maximum per Waka guarantees exclusivity

Departs

Twice daily from Waitangi / Paihia ( October – April ) Rally times are 9.45am and 12.45pm respectively.

10.00am departure
1.00pm  departure
Other times by arrangement only

PRICES

ADULT: $135.00nz           
CHILD: $105.00nz children between the ages of 6yrs - 12yrs.
Children under 6yrs not permitted on Waka.

Forward Bookings are preferred

BRING: Appropriate clothing as per weather conditions – Water bottle (optional) –Insect repellant – Sun block – Sunhat – sunglasses-Camera – soft sole footwear and a smile.

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