Te Puia is quite an institution in Rotorua, New Zealand.

This fascinating attraction has a 180-year legacy of guiding visitors through a stunning geothermal valley and showcasing the intriguing Māori culture!

Justin Te Hau knows Te Puia well as he is a fifth-generation guide there. Justin’s great-great grandmother was one of the first guides, and his love and knowledge of Te Puia is a result of it being his ancestral home. Hence his passion for showcasing this amazing place to visitors.

Te Puia, is home to the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, Pōhutu Geyser. This geyser, meaning big splash or explosion, erupts approximately hourly to heights of up to 30 m

A special on-site feature is the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, which was founded to keep alive the Maori traditions of wood carving and weaving.

Located at Whakarewarewa, close to Rotorua, Te Puia is the site of a Maori fortress that was established in about 1325.   Māori have lived here ever since, taking full advantage of the geothermal activity in the valley for heating and cooking. The spirit of the Maori is very strong here.

Other geothermal attractions at Te Puia include mud pools, hot springs and silica formations.

Get up close to the elusive kiwi, New Zealand’s national bird, at the Kiwi Conservation Centre. Enjoy a guided tour, and immerse yourself in the Maori culture.

Te Puia is open from Wednesday to Sunday and is a simply wonderful experience.