• Arts, History

    & Culture

    Mt Hikurangi

From first arrivals to first encounters

Tairāwhiti has been a destination for cultural explorers from the very start.

Tairāwhiti is a welcoming place for new beginnings and new discoveries – the landing place of great Pacific navigators and the origins of Aotearoa New Zealand’s defining dual heritage.

Steeped in vibrant arts, rich history and authentic Māori culture, we invite you to discover the many stories Tairāwhiti has to tell.

Sail away on a traditional waka experience or visit the largest tukutuku (Māori art form) panels in the world - the treasures of Tairāwhiti are ready for you to uncover.

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