See & Do

Māori Culture

Hawke's Bay is known to Māori as Te Matau-a-Māui / The Hook of Māui, in reference to the early navigator Māui, who bestowed the first placenames to the region over 1,000 years ago.

Mythical legends place an important role in the transmission of oral histories in Māori culture and Hawke's Bay has a rich heritage of Māori pūrākau (myths and legends). Much of this can be experienced first-hand through a visit to one or more of the many cultural sites - most are open to the public year-round.

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Cultural immersion at your fingertips

If a cultural adventure is what you seek, Hawke's Bay will treat you to some of the most incredible experiences. Pania of the Reef is one of Napier's most visited attractions and while her statue is beautiful the story behind her is one of heartbreak.

Hawke's Bay's cultural list of activities isn't complete without a visit to the 'Longest Place Name' in the world! While few can master the pronunciation it translates to "the place where Tamatea, the man with the big knees, who slid, climbed and swallowed mountains, known as 'landeater', played his flute to his loved one."

There are stories to be told about this special place and every one of them are captivating, leaving an imprint in the memories of all who venture to learn about the past. 

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