What Is the Mitai Maori Village: Cultural Experience and Dinner Buffet in Rotorua?

Visiting and immersing yourself in indigenous culture is one of the true privileges of travelling around the world. In New Zealand, there is a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the Maori culture in Rotorua, at Mitai Maori Village: Cultural Experience and Dinner Buffet.

This evening tour has become a huge draw for tourists and locals alike, offering a sense of insight into the fascinating culture that is so fundamental to New Zealand’s identity. From the moment you arrive, you will start to get a sense of the ancient, spiritual traditions at work here. Here is everything that you need to know about this Maori cultural experience, plus what you should expect.

What is the Mitai Maori Village?

The Mitai Maori Village is located on a sacred site in Rotorua which, according to legend, was once home to a female taniwha called “Matai’, who lived in the nearby spring. To keep the legend alive, the name “Mitai’ was chosen for this village, which means “dreams’ in Maori. It is part restaurant, part cultural center and entertainment hub, perfectly shaped for visitors to experience authentic Maori culture.

What Kind of Experience Does Mitai Maori Village Offer?

At the Mitai Maori Village, you can witness a traditional Maori ‘makahiki’ (“harvest festival’ or “traditional Maori hangi feast”) ceremony, with warriors dressed in traditional clothes performing the haka (a form of chant or song originating from the Maori people). You can watch an amazing cultural performance featuring beautiful tribal dance, singing and Ta Moko (traditional Maori tattooing). You can also participate in activities such as face painting and weaving and take a guided stroll through an ancient native bush with ancient sights including hidden streams, waterfalls and thermal hot pools.

The highlight of the evening is an amazing buffet dinner which allows you to sample both traditional and modern cuisine while enjoying views of the gardens lit up at night. There is even a bar inside, offering drinks such as beer from the well-known local brewery Croucher Brewing Co.

What Time Does the Experience Begin?

The Mitai Maori Village Cultural Experience and Dinner Buffet includes transportation from downtown Rotorua and takes place every day from 5pm-9pm. Upon arrival guests will be welcomed by a traditional Maori warrior before proceeding to learn various customs. Then the group will move through to a large dining hall where dinner will be served including traditional dishes such as roasted Hangi pork, salmon, crayfish and stuffing. There will also be vegetarian options available upon request. Finally guests are encouraged to take part in engaging conversation about New Zealand’s unique maori culture and culture before returning back to their hotel or accommodation.

What Can You Expect from the Buffet Dinner at Mitai Maori Village?

At Mitai Maori Village, the buffet dinner is truly something special. You will be able to enjoy an unforgettable feast surrounded by traditional remains of the area and admire carvings and sculptures that perfectly capture Maori culture. The dinner includes modern fusion cuisine as well as traditional Hangi-style dishes – a classic New Zealand feast which derives its flavour from ingredients being cooked in an underground oven. You can expect succulent roast pork, tender trout fillets and plenty of vegetables, all cooked to perfection. All guests are free to fill their plates up as often as they wish as part of a truly delicious display.

Advantages of Experiencing a Traditional Hangi at Mitai Maori Village?

The Hangi-style meal served at Mitai Maori Village gives customers a real taste of New Zealand culture. Dating back centuries, this traditional cooking method is used to cook food by boiling it directly in thermal springs of known sacred areas such as Mitai. The advantage of using thermal springs for cooking dishes which includes Hangi pork, chicken and fruits is that it combines traditional Maori methods with modern cooking techniques for a unique experience. This style of cooking brings out flavours of the very best in local seasonal produce which you simply won’t find anywhere else.

What Can You Expect from the Rest of the Experience?

After dinner, you can expect to embark on an educational tour of Mitai Maori Village’s ancient grounds and forests. While on this journey, you will have the opportunity to learn more about local history, myths and legends while hearing stories and music sung by a live choir group. As part of this tour you will also be able to visit thermal hot pools, stunning waterfalls and secret bush trails.

Finally, you can witness dances which in Māori are referred to as ‘moteatea’, and hear enchanting stories about Māori mythology being sung in harmony by local performers – creating an unforgettable and truly spiritual evening which celebrates New Zealand culture.

At the end of your evening you will be dropped off at your hotel or accommodation having learnt more about Māori culture than you ever imagined possible!

Conclusion: A Unique and Memorable Experience

As you can see, Mitai Maori Village: Cultural Experience and Dinner Buffet provides an enjoyable evening full of unforgettable experiences all based around New Zealand’s ancient culture. It’s an unforgettable evening full of surprises that can be enjoyed by visitors and locals alike – perfect for those looking to gain an insight into the Māori culture which is so fundamental to Kiwi identity.

If you are looking to experience this unique cultural evening for yourself then you can book your tickets online here, where you are sure to discover more about this unique part of New Zealand’s rich past which continues to live on!