Our next stop was Rotorua, where we stayed for about 3 days because there was so much to do (despite being told otherwise!). We started by going to the Tamaki Maori Village as Rotorua is a good place to learn about their culture. It was a great night, not a completely honest portrayal as by becoming commercial it cant stay that way, but interesting and well put together!
Three 'chiefs' were chosen by the drivers (who were absolutely hilarious might i add..making us chant and row all the way there!) and then we were greeted formally by the tribe. They performed a war dance and one of the chiefs was challenged, to decide whether we were coming in peace.
Their village was more of a training village for the younger members, they showed us some of their typical warrior training methods and crafts. We were also able to answer any questions we had. They were all very friendly and welcoming.
We were then taken into the kind of theatre and they sung and did some dances. Really amazing to see, i loved this part so much. They even performed the famous Haka..here is a clip from it:
After the dances etc we had a meal that they had prepared for us in the tradition style, called a Hangi. This is where hot volcanic rocks and heated on a fire until they are white hot, then all the ashes are brushed off and they are moved into a deep hole in the ground. Food is then layered in some contraption that can be lowered into the hole, covered with more rocks, wrapped in muslin and covered over with earth. It is then left for many hours.
The food was so so good! The meat was pretty much falling off the bones as it was so tender. Needless to say, we definately had our fill...kumara, lamb, mussels, salads etc...and for desert a traditional pavlova with fruit that included the golden kiwi..yum yum!
Definitely a night to recommend!
