Exploring Mitai Maori Village: Cultural Experience and Dinner Buffet in Rotorua

Mitai Maori Village, located in Rotorua, is the perfect place to experience the vibrant culture of the Maori people of New Zealand. Not only will you gain insights into the rich history and traditions of the Maori people, you will also get a taste of their delicious food with a traditional dinner buffet featuring traditional dishes. In this article, we explore what a visit to Mitai Maori Village entails and answer all of your questions about this cultural experience and dinner buffet.

What is Mitai Maori Village?

Mitai Maori Village is a 15-acre property just outside of Rotorua that features a fully-fledged Maori village set in bush land. It is home to a family of descendants of Te Arawa Canal people, who are the original inhabitants of Rotorua. Visitors get to watch cultural displays such as the traditional haka (war dance), participate in cultural activities such as poi and singing, and even watch or join in with a hangi demonstration.

The hangi is the traditional way of cooking food shared by Maori communities. The food is cooked slowly in an underground oven using heated rocks. This style of cooking ensures that the food retains all of its natural juice and flavor, resulting in delicious and tender meats. After learning about their culture and customs, visitors can enjoy a buffet dinner prepared with a combination of traditional hangi dishes and modern meals.

How long is the Mitai Maori Village tour?

The tour typically lasts around two to three hours. It is recommended that visitors arrive at the village at least half an hour before the scheduled start time in order to select a seat and watch the traditional Maori welcome ceremony which is performed as part of each tour. During the tour, visitors are walked around the village and can take part in activities such as poi and throwing weapons, as well as speaking with the guides and observe the traditional cultural displays.

The dinner buffet commences after the tour. Depending on the option chosen, the buffet can last up to two hours. As part of the package, some venues may offer guests a complimentary alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage.

What are the tour packages offered at Mitai Maori Village?

There are three packages available for visitors:

• The “Kiwi Hangi & Concert’ package includes a cultural demonstration with performance, followed by a hangi dinner buffet for three hours and an additional hour of cultural concert entertainment.
• The “Kiwi Hangi & Mitai Meal’ package offers an hour-long cultural demonstration with performance, followed by a hangi dinner buffet for three hours.
• The “Mitai Only Meal’ package includes a hangi dinner buffet for three hours and can be accompanied by an additional hour of cultural concert entertainment.

The prices vary depending on which package is chosen and also on other add-ons relating to VIP seating, alcoholic beverages, and access to magical glowworms.

What food will be served at the dinner buffet?

The dinner buffet generally includes a selection of traditionally cooked hangi dishes such as chicken, lamb, pork, and beef, alongside modern-style dishes such as roast vegetables and potatoes, salads, and fish. As part of the buffet, some venues may serve complimentary alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, juice, or soft drinks. Desserts are also offered which vary from venue to venue but can include kiwifruit cheesecake, kawakawa ice cream or pavlova.

Can children attend the Mitai Maori village tour?

Yes! Children can attend the Mitai Maori Village tour and enjoy special family rates per person ranging from $45-$75 NZD. There are special packages designed for children including a mini hangi pot with chicken breast strips, potato wedges, steamed vegetables, crayfish meatballs, damper bread, kawakawa ice cream, lollies, musical instruments, different types of poi balls, and more!

Are there any tips for visiting Mitai Maori Village?

Yes! Here are some tips to keep in mind when planning your visit to Mitai Maori Village:

• Arrive early: We recommend arriving at least half an hour before your tour starts to ensure that you have enough time to select your seat and view the welcome ceremony highlighting traditional Maori customs.
• Take photos: You’ll have plenty of chances to take photos throughout the tour – don’t forget your camera!
• Dress appropriately: Make sure to dress appropriately for the tour – clothing should be modest and cover your shoulders and knees.
• Be prepared for a long night: After the tour there will usually be a dinner buffet lasting around three hours – make sure you come prepared with light snacks and lots of water.

Conclusion

Visiting Mitai Maori Village is an incredible opportunity to learn about Maori culture while enjoying a delicious dinner buffet. A visit here is sure to be an evening you won’t forget – so why not book your experience now? With GetYourGuide’s Mitai Maori Village Cultural Tour, you’re guaranteed a night full of authentic Maori culture and mouthwatering food that you’ll be telling your friends about for years to come!