05 Apr 2025
I had a great morning visiting the living village. Daniel our guide was awesome - thoughtful, enthusiastic, very knowledgeable, humorous and he also has excellent interpersonal and teaching skills. An unforgettable detailed discovery of the Maori world and it prompted lots of questions from the group which were really interesting. If you are wondering whether to go to Te Puia over the road I would say ideally do both! The social history and authenticity here is fascinating and it is a good value trip. Thank you! Te Puia is more expensive and commercialised. However it does have particularly great views of the geothermal features, kiwis to see and a visit to the weaving and carving training colleges who are carrying on the traditions. Depends on what you are most interested in.