Is Kai Waho the right experience for you?

  • Would you like an experience that is culturally and historically honest?\

  • Would you like an experience that is presented naturally not by template or coreographed?

  • Would you like an exclusive experience hosted specifically for you or a small group with a high level of personal attention?

  • Would you like to enjoy exclusive access to 5000 acres of Maori owned wilderness?

  • Would you like your experience to touch you emotionally and create enduring memories?

If you answered yes to these questions then get in touch with Tom Loughlin – our legendary tangata whenua (person of the land) will ensure your visit is as energetic or as tranquil as you desire. Whether it is for the day or longer, alone or with a group, rest assured you will never forget this unique experience.


 A culturally and historically honest experience

  • A natural experience, rather than a choreographed, templated one

  • An experience tailored specifically for you and/or a small group

  • Exclusive access to more than 2000 hectares of Maori-owned wilderness

  • An experience so special, the memories will last a lifetime

Ko Tahi te Rā Free your Spirit
A full day experience.
This takes you on a Māori bush journey back through the ages, learning about the land, the history and significance of Māori kai (food).

Our most popular package is one we have co-developed with Ahipara Luxury Travel.  It is exclusive to them and is available to 2-6 guests over a relaxed 6 – 7 hour day.  To book, please go to www.ahipara.com 

The focus of the day is the ‘Kai’.  The “food”.  How did Māori grow, store, harvest and capture their food? How connected were they to the natural environment?  How did they cook their food and what were the main means of cooking?

The information and answers to the above questions is shared in a ‘Wananga’ shared learning style, ‘Ka nohi ki te ka nohi’ face to face, or one on one very personal basis, while at the same time all guests are invited to comment and compare, and to also partake in one or two traditional cooking methods, the most popular being the ‘Hangi’.  In addition they can also partake in other activities based on any particular interest the guest may have, e.g. hiking, bird watching, traditional eeling, Māori arts.

We have often combined this focus on food together with a full ceremonial welcome, which is quite breathtaking and, in our eyes, significant.

We are located on Māori (Ngāti Tuwharetoa) tribal lands in a very remote area.  Travel to Tamau Pā is by 4x4 across a very scenic landscape, return is by 4x4 but we do recommend a scenic 15-20min helicopter flight back to Tāupo.  Typically our guests have a full day of experiences and welcome a quicker trip back.     

Te Mata Aho Awakening the Body and Mind
A multi-day experience (3 or 5 day options)
This very special package provides the ultimate Māori cultural experience.

This very special package provides the ultimate Māori cultural experience. It allows one to totally escape modern living and become at one with Papatūānuku (the natural environment). A relaxing visit that allows you to experience all the area has to offer, including extended bush walks, picnic lunches and other Māori experiences

An extended stay in the rustic Tamau Pā and its exquisite natural surroundings makes the stresses and strains of everyday life disappear. You will learn about Māori culture, embrace a simpler way of natural living and become at one with the land.

Enjoy Māori and European cuisine and take the time to learn more about the area, and your hosts the Ngati Tuwharetoa people.

At night, sit around the open fire and listen to Māori stories and legends. Away from city lights, you'll be amazed at the night sky. Night owls are invited to explore the area after dark with Tom. Perhaps try the traditional Māori way of snaring an eel for the smoker box for breakfast.

Ideal for couples or groups of up to 8 people. Choose your date - we'll be there to welcome you.

Experience a unique cultural experience.

 Advanced Cultural Learning
For the total Māori experience choose this additional option.
Weaving, carving and their symbolic importance.

For the total Māori experience choose this additional option. It includes a traditional pōwhiri (welcome) with Māori warriors, whose role it is to determine whether you come in peace or to wage war. A kapa haka (performing group) supports the warriors and performs Māori song and dance in traditional kākahu (dress).

Enjoy demonstrations on how Māori made and used weapons, play and listen to traditional musical instruments and have fun as the women teach you to swing the ‘poi’ and dance.

Learn about traditional weaving, tools and carving techniques and their symbolic importance.

If you want to totally immerse yourself spiritually in the Māori way of life then this is the complete experience to add to your Kai Waho package.