Nau mai, haere mai. Welcome.
Behind Kai Waho lies generations and layers of nurture and knowledge and Tom Loughlin is the link.
Tom connects people. And he connects people to the environment, indigeneity, cultural heritage and things they didn’t even know they were looking for through one of life’s basic needs: the gathering, cooking and sharing of food; kai as Tom calls it. Kai Waho, outdoor food.
Kai Waho is the total Kiwi experience, authentic in its Maori cultural roots, hand stitched for individuals. It’s meaningful travel that offers a much deeper experience than a simple walk in the bush, a day in the outdoors, a fish or a hunt.
Behind the urban landscape Aotearoa/New Zealand is rich in kai, in story and in spirit. Tom is the interpreter, he translates the environment and his generous Maori culture and gives people the gift of space, rhythm and time to breath out.
Tom Loughlin
Ngati Tuwharetoa / Ngapuhi Te Rarawa
Tom, host, chef and gatherer, will ensure your visit is as energetic or as tranquil as you wish. Whether it is for the day or longer, alone or with a group, you will never forget this unique experience.
Tamau Pa
Tamau Pa, our comfortable whare (cabin), is situated on the eastern rim of the Taupo basin. Set in picturesque surroundings, at more than 700 metres, it is accessible only by air or via an exhilarating 35 minute off-road journey in a 4-wheel drive. Guests have exclusive access to a magnificent wilderness boasting native flora and fauna in a sub-alpine forest. The beautiful Ripia River runs through this stunning terrain.
As people of the land, our strongest commitment and connection is to the land. Sharing an experience based on the following values is our primary focus.
Treat guests with respect, based on traditional Maori family principles
Conduct our business ethically and transparently
Be environmentally responsible, according to cultural values
Provide unique experiences to the highest quality
Respect the land and its gifts, taking only what we need
Honor the memory and wisdom of our ancestors and the spiritual guidance from our Atua (Gods)