Shore Excursion: Bay of Islands Maori War Canoe Tour

Sightseeing  :  New Zealand  :  Northland  :  Waitangi  :  Cultural Tours

Enjoy this memorable shore excursion from where your cruise ship tenders in Paihia. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to delve into the Northern Maori culture from the Ngapuhi confederation of tribes, New Zealand’s largest tribal nation by using the living landscapes and environment as the setting and natural backdrop for your tour.

The best part of your 3 hour tour is done in a Waka taua (traditional Maori war canoe) built from a mixture of composite and traditional materials. You will also visit a Marae (meeting ground), historical sites and learn the age old art of storytelling to share the traditions, customs and the compelling stories of the bygone era.

The activities are both interactive and educational where you will learn the ceremonial chants and haka of the magnificent Waka taua while absorbing the breath-taking natural and stunning beauty of the Waitangi river tidal estuaries, its rain-forest and the cultural living landscapes.

In 2012 this tour gained international recognition and prestige when National Geographic Traveler acknowledged this Maori war canoe voyage and cultural experience as being among “The world’s top 50 tours of a lifetime”.

The Bay of Islands in the deep blue depths of the South Pacific, is the most vibrantly Maori part of New Zealand and is the best possible place to immerse yourself in authentic traditional Maori culture that’s managed to roll with the punches of modernity without losing its color or its soul.

Make your way to the Waitangi boat ramp where you will meet your Ngapuhi guide.

On the first leg of the voyage the waka glides up the tidal estuaries of the Waitangi. In no time you realize this is an experience unlike any other in New Zealand. Engage with your Maori host who shares personal tribal and family histories. Enjoy panoramic views, vibrant and stunning colors that stretch the length of the river banks and beyond. The first leg of the voyage culminates with the arrival in the pool of the Haruru waterfalls. The magic of this place is brought to life by the skillful oratory of our storytellers who accompany you. Although it may seem like 5 minutes you have actually been on voyage for over an hour. 

The epic voyage continues passing by a Marae on the banks of the Waitangi. Here you might meet with local tribal members. You may even have time for a hello and some photo opportunities, view native birds, fish and wildlife. Enjoy your new found family and friends and say farewell with new lifelong memories, Mauri ora.

This 3 hour voyage is the safe and perfect combination of eco and authentic Maori cultural tourism.