One of the main benefits to traveling in the northern regions of New Zealand, other than the stunning views, tropical splendour, and variety of exciting outdoor activities, is the wide array of cultural sights and stops that are sure to lie along your route. Keep in mind that this is the birthplace of the nation where the native ancient culture once thrived.
Due to this there are a variety of museums, cultural centres, and sites all along the northern region where you can learn about the rich cultural heritage on the land you are passing through on your motorhome hire new zealand journey. When you’re passing through this region, make sure to check them out.
Rotorua
When it comes to experiencing the Maori culture, there is nowhere else like Rotorua This legendary city is the stuff of legend, and it won’t take you long to find out why with its variety of ancient villages, Maori tourist attractions, and geothermal parks. You can stay overnight as well since there are a number of designated camping sites, making it perfect for RV travelers. Anyone looking to experience the Maori culture should no doubt start right here.
Bay of Islands
This is easily of the most significant historical spots in all of New Zealand. If you’re passing through the Bay Of Islands region and interested in experiencing the native culture, you should head straight to Waitangi where the treaty grounds await Here you can check out a number of cultural performances that are designed to mirror the exact performances and look of ancient Maori dances and ceremonies. The original inhabitants of these islands traveled between them by boat, and you can do the same since this is some of the most scenic boating to be found in the country.
Auckland
The Auckland museum has a wide range of native arts and artifacts on display in their permanent collection and a number of exciting special exhibits throughout the year. Throughout the city there are cultural song and dances performed on a regular basis in a variety of venues. You also have the gorgeous Waiheke Island where there are a whole lot of cultural offerings
Hokianga
Up in the very north of the island as you approach Cape Reinga and Spirits Bay, cultural minded explorers would be advised to stop and stay the night in Hokianga Harbour. This is the classic Marae stay which has been enjoyed by travelers in the area for many decades and is perfect for any motorhome hire new zealand journey. There are some great walking tours in the region, several of which will allow you to see the country’s largest Kauri tree. There are some great hiking trails as well through the Waipoua Forest where you will be surrounded by much rich cultural history.
Whanganui National Park
This is some incredibly rich cultural territory and you will want to set aside some time to really explore it. This forest is completely ancient and just hiking through it will give you a great feel for the original territory in which the native culture thrived. You can set out on your own with a guide map, or you can take a guided tour where a local expert will point out all of many cultural landmarks along the trail. This park really puts you in the heart of the native culture, and there is no better place to get a sense of the Maori’s original territory.
Wellington
Right in the heart of Wellington you will find the Te Papa Museum where you will be able to see thousands of pieces of native arts and crafts in an incredibly well curated collection that is one of the largest native treasure troves in the country. You can also take a Maori tour that covers the wide range of cultural sights all across the city. This is by far one of the most culturally aware cities in the country and one that has always aimed to celebrate and honor the traditions and cultures of the original settlers in the area. It’s truly inspiring to find a city that takes this type of accepting stance of their heritage, so you should definitely include Wellington in your plans if you want a taste of the native culture.
If you’re looking to experience the native Maori culture on your campervan hire new zealand journey, then the northern island is where you want to be. There are a wide range of cities and towns in this region who honor and cherish their native origins through site preservation, museums, and cultural performances. There are also an incredible number of outdoor sites that will give you a taste for the native’s territory where they made their home and built a nation. Make sure to visit the north island to get a taste of the Maori culture.
