Through the memorial archway, Whakarewarewa Thermal Village lies within a unique geothermal wonderland.
Steeped in a rich heritage and offering glimpses into the past, the village upholds the traditions and culture of Tuhourangi, Ngati Wahiao, who have enjoyed sharing their history and way of life with visitors since the 1800’s.
Here visitors experience a natural day in the life of a living Maori village. They will see steaming mineral springs and natural bathing areas used daily by the villagers, bubbling mud pools and hot steam vents (a hangi) where food slowly cooked in its own juices.
Visitors entering the village are welcomed by a guide near the memorial archway, then taken on an educational journey through time covering 300 years of village life. Guiding has become a way of life for many families in the village as this skill has been passed down from generation to generation upholding the traditions from the guides of old.
To enhance the experience there are twice daily cultural performances, visitor participation activities, thermal hangi meals plus arts and crafts displays and shopping opportunities.
| Cultural performances: |
11.15am & 2.00pm daily |
| Hangi Meals served: |
12.00pm – 2.30pm |
| Guided Tours: |
9.00am – 4.00pm daily |