For train bookings beyond June 2025 to June 2026, contact us at info@newzealandtravelteam.com.
An Immersive Rail Experience
We have some exciting news for your upcoming journey, we have made changes to our onboard audio commentary which is now available via our new infotainment app.
The infotainment app allows all audio commentary and stories to be available at a touch of a button via your phone.
Our commentary has been upgraded and revised and we are excited to have it available for our passengers.
The app is easy to use, and if you have any issues, please talk to the staff on the train, they will help you to troubleshoot any issues.
Please make sure you bring your own device, USB charger and headphones to enjoy the audio commentary.
We recommend you download the free “Great Journeys New Zealand” app in advance.
Some sections of the app won’t be available until you are on the train, but once connected to the Wifi on the train you’ll will be able to see the full content.
An unforgettable 4 hour Maori Culture experience starting at 6.15pm
Journey to an authentic Maori village nestled in Rotorua forest and be formally welcomed into the sacred grounds, where amidst crackling village fires you will discover Maori art forms, ancient rituals and Maori traditions.
Share in thrilling song and dance, and then enjoy a 3 course Maori-fusion feast with your Maori hosts.
Prices include:
4 hour Maori Cultural Experience - New Zealand’s best and most award-winning!
Buffet dinner feast
Free transport to and from your Rotorua accommodation
TRADITIONAL
Your Te Pa Tu coach will pick you up from your Rotorua Accommodation. As you make your way to the village you will learn of the Maori migration, protocols when entering another village and a chief is selected to represent your tribe. Share in the Powhiri; our ancient ceremony of welcome before you are invited into a pre-European Maori Village nestled within a native Tawa forest.
INTERACTIVE
Enter a living village, as it comes alive with the sights, sounds and activity of days gone by.
See, touch, take time and talk to our people as you wander through our village- you will be invited to participate in stick games, warrior training, learn the poi and we will also teach you how to perform the fearsome haka!
At the heart of the village, enter ancestral Meeting House and relax as our family entertains you with a powerful cultural performance including action songs, short and long poi, weaponry displays, stick games and the world famous "haka" - Maori War Dance.
FEASTING
The sharing of food is an important part of the Maori custom - so we now invite you to join the Maori-fusion feast, followed by our New Zealand dessert.
The evening draws to an end with the Poroporoaki - the official closing ceremony.
There will be waiata (songs) and whaikorero (speeches), before you are safely transferred back to your Rotorua accommodation.
Children aged 5-15 years.