Ancestral Footprints Cultural Tour

Full-Day Tour – Departs 9:30am and Returns 3:30pm

The Tuhourangi people have lived in the shadow of Mount Tarawera for many generations.

There was a time in the mid-1800’s when a steady stream of visitors from overseas came to visit the magnificent and spectacular Pink and White Terraces, sited on the geothermal wonder, Lake Rotomahana. The guides of Tuhourangi became well known as the hosts of the terraces that quickly became known as the 8th Wonder of the Natural World.

However all this changed as on the 10th June 1886 when Mount Tarawera erupted, taking with it lives, entire villages and the Pink and White Terraces. The Tuhourangi people were devastated by the loss of their many family members, the land and waters that had provided them with their food and their income. Some of the Tuhourangi settled at Whakarewarewa, thanks to the generosity of the Ngati Wahiao tribe who were willing to share their home. Here, Tuhourangi were able to rebuild their lives and continue welcoming and guiding visitors to experience Whakarewarewa’s natural wonders.

Join a descendant of the Tuhourangi people as she takes you on a journey to experience their unique lifestyle and history. Learn about aspects of the Māori culture first hand, experience Māori kai (food), see how our family lives amongst the bubbling hot pools, then experience seeing our sleeping giant, Mount Tarawera and enjoy bathing in the geothermal waters. This day’s experience will leave you enthralled and inspired while you walk in the footsteps of the Tuhourangi people.