Last updated June 2026
Te Puia is a major geothermal and Māori cultural attraction located at Whakarewarewa on the southern edge of Rotorua. It combines the active Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley, featuring the prominent Pōhutu Geyser and other geothermal features, with the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute (NZMACI), where traditional carving and weaving skills are taught and practised.
Visitors can join guided tours that explore the valley, observe artisans at work, visit the Kiwi Conservation Centre, and experience cultural performances. Evening packages often include traditional hāngi dining.
Practical Information
- Address
- 20 Hemo Road, Whakarewarewa, Rotorua 3010
- Open
- Daily for day experiences (typically 9am–5pm); night experiences available
- Entry
- Guided tours only; check-in 15 minutes prior to departure
- Prices
- Day guided experiences from around NZ$100 per adult (subject to change; check official site)
- Website
- tepuia.com for bookings, current times and packages
About Te Puia
Te Puia occupies part of the historic Te Whakarewarewa geothermal valley, one of New Zealand’s most active thermal areas. The valley includes boiling mud pools, steam vents, silica terraces and the Pōhutu Geyser, recognised as the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, which erupts multiple times daily to heights of up to 30 metres.
The New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute was established in 1963 by Act of Parliament to preserve and teach traditional Māori arts. At Te Puia, visitors observe students and master practitioners working in wood carving (whakairo) and weaving (raranga) within functioning training schools.
Guided experiences also include the Kiwi Conservation Centre, where visitors can view New Zealand’s national bird in a purpose-built nocturnal enclosure as part of conservation efforts. Cultural performances featuring kapa haka, haka and poi are available in several packages, with narration providing cultural context.
Te Puia is distinct from the nearby Whakarewarewa Living Māori Village, which is a separate, inhabited settlement with its own management and entry. Staying on marked paths is required throughout the geothermal areas for safety.
Cultural Performances and Experiences
Day packages such as Te Rā Guided Experience combine a 90-minute tour of the geothermal valley, Kiwi Conservation Centre and NZMACI with optional additions like a cultural performance. Evening options include Te Pō experiences with dinner, often featuring hāngi or fusion cuisine, and cultural performances. Bookings are recommended, especially for evening sittings.
Where to Learn More
Te Puia Official Website: Current tour times, experience packages, pricing and online booking.
RotoruaNZ – Te Puia: Official Rotorua tourism overview and visitor information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Te Puia?
Te Puia is a geothermal and Māori cultural attraction at Whakarewarewa, Rotorua, combining the thermal valley (including Pōhutu Geyser), the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, a kiwi conservation centre and cultural experiences.
What are the opening hours?
Day experiences generally run from around 9am to 5pm, with night experiences available separately. Exact times and tour departures vary; check the official website for current schedules.
How much does it cost?
Basic guided day experiences start from approximately NZ$100 per adult. Prices vary by package and change over time; confirm current rates on tepuia.com.
How often does Pōhutu Geyser erupt?
Pōhutu erupts multiple times daily, though timing is unpredictable. Most guided tours provide opportunities to view at least one eruption.
What is the NZ Māori Arts and Crafts Institute?
Established by Act of Parliament in 1963, it is a working training institution preserving traditional Māori carving and weaving. Visitors observe students and practitioners during tours.
Is Te Puia the same as Whakarewarewa village?
No. Te Puia and the Whakarewarewa Living Māori Village are separate attractions in the same valley with different management, entry points and programmes.
Is there food available at Te Puia?
Yes. Evening experiences often include hāngi or other dining options. A restaurant and café are also on site.
Do tours include the kiwi encounter?
Yes, the Kiwi Conservation Centre visit is included in standard guided day experiences such as Te Rā.
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