Wairakei Terraces

8 years on and Wairakei terraces continue to offer a unique look back in time; undoubtedly the crowning jewel in this mystical place these silica terraces are magnificent, stunning, amazing and a true wonder of the natural world. A one hour day tour takes in more than 20 features of Maori cultural and geothermal interest including the reinstated Te Kiriohinekai stream and pool highly sought after for its healing properties and therapeutic value.

An evening activity offers a rare opportunity to experience the very cornerstone of Maori custom and culture, participate in a traditional welcome conducted by the local Maori people in their traditional costume, a guided tour of a Maori village naturally lit up at night, and featuring carvers, weavers and tattooists displaying the ancient arts of Maori. Partake of a traditional ground cooked meal (hangi) and enjoy a concert of song, dance and haka. This experience is intense, powerful and emotional and will leave the visitor with lasting memories of a culture that is alive and growing.

Exclusive guided tours are offered of the Wairakei Geothermal power plant; an amazing engineering feat that is generating clean and renewable electricity from the continuous supply of heat that is drawn from deep inside the earth’s core. Learn about the relationship Maori have with the geothermal resource and the story of their ancestor Ngatoroirangi who they believe was responsible for bringing the geothermal energy to Aotearoa.