ARAITERURU KI UTA, ARAITEURU KI TAI

The stories of our ancestral canoe are remembered in the landscape, in our waters and in our hearts.

View On AirbnbMaori Waka on the Waikouaiti River

Welcome to our small coastal community of Karitane and to the centre of our universe. The waka (canoe) has a deep spiritual and cultural significance in Maori culture. Today we use the waka as a way of connecting to our environment, past and future onthe Waikouaiti river.

Karitane Maori Tours is owned and operated by the local iwi, Kati Huirapa ki Puketeraki. Our mission is to restore the natural landscape of Karitane and to support local community groups. Our guests plant a native shrub on the sandspit, O Hinepouwera. Each tour helps us to continue our work with young people, schoolgroups and community volunteers.

  • 128 Stornoway St, Karitane, Dunedin
  • 2.5 Hours
  • English
  • We Provide:
  • Tea/coffee . Light Lunch (Waka tour only)
  • Lifejackets . Water shoes . Paddles
  • Spray jackets . Towels
 

Maori Waka Tour

Our waka tour will take you onto the beautiful Waikouaiti River, where the ancestors of Kati Huirapa travelled long before.
Hear the stories, customs and traditions, whilst learning the skills to paddle our waka.
Plant harakeke (flax) on the spit, and help restore our native coastal environment.

2 Hours Minimum Adult: NZ$110
Child: NZ$80

Read More Book Now

Maori Pa Tour

Enjoy a personalised tour of Huriawa peninsula with our friendly and knowledgeable guides. You will learn the history and stories of the pa (fortified village). A shorter experience for travellers with limited time.

2 Hours Minimum Adult: NZ$70
Child: NZ$40

Read More Book Now

Southern Star Tour

View the night sky from a Southern Maori perspective. Enjoy a personalised night tour of Huriawa peninsula and hear the history and stories of the Southern stars. Kane will intrigue and fascinate with a traditional interpretation of the night sky and stars.

3 Hours Minimum Adult: NZ$110
Child: NZ$82.50

Read More

  • Karitane Testimonial
    A well-rounded experience - Alex brought the landscape alive with stories and local history, great laughs in the waka and I enjoyed visiting the different natural environments

    Jason

  • Karitane Testimonial
    Alex was a fantastic guide, he made it fun and interesting for the whole family! Great to hear about the stories of the past and be contributing back to the land by planting trees too 

    Kate

Hands on Māori cultural experiences