Family defines us

Maori Tours Kaikoura was set up by Maurice and Heather Manawatu and is family owned and operated.  Our family are the indigenous people of New Zealand or 'Tangata Whenua' (people of the land).  We belong to the sub-tribe 'Ngati Kuri' and our main tribe is 'Ngai Tahu'.  We are descendants of Paikea - 'The Whale Rider.'

We established in November 2001 and began operating full time in January 2002.  This is the first  Maori Cultural Experience in Kaikoura and is possible due only to the support and blessing of family members and tribal elders.      

Our family has more than 30 combined years experience in tourism and hospitality.  Hosting visitors, making them feel welcome and creating new friendships comes naturally and we can't imagine working in any other area.   We have met a host of wonderful people since we began operating and you can check out what some of them say about us by visting www.rankers.co.nz or click on the logo on the left hand side of this page for live rankings.

"Every traveller to and within Aotearoa (New Zealand) should take the time to stand in the heart of the day with Maurice Manawatu"
                  (Ian Murray - Tour Guide - Tourism New Zealand)

Authentic Experience - We offer refreshingly authentic experiences delivered in a natural way.  You will gain a rare insight into how our people have adapted to the world of today.  

Traditional Maori values are applied in our daily operation and determine the way we conduct our business affairs.  We welcome the opportunity to share those values with you.

We are working towards a better future; for us and the generations that follow.  Our mission statement says it all:

We want to share our unique culture, location and history in a natural and intimate way, whilst preserving our values and strengthening the development of our people - educationally, economically and spiritually.

Ngai Tahu - Ngai Tahu is the largest tribe in the South Island of New Zealand in both land area and people.  Tribal members all descend from a common ancestor 'Tahu Potiki' (son of Paikea the Whale Rider) and that is how we were named.  Ngai Tahu translates to Tahu's People.  In total there are 18 'hapu' (sub tribes) that make up Ngai Tahu today.  

Ngati Kuri - Ngati Kuri are the Hapu in the Kaikoura area and we are members of that sub-tribe.  Our boundary extends north from Kaikoura to Pari Nui O Whiti, south to the Hurunui river and west through the Kaikoura mountain ranges to Hanmer Springs.

Today the majority of Ngati Kuri live outside the tribal area.  Those of us that live in Kaikoura hold 'Mana Whenua' status which means we are considered guardians of the environment.  It is our responsibility to keep the fires warm for all other Ngati Kuri who may one day return home.  A responsibility we willingly accept and embrace.

 Our 'Kaumatua' (elders) are the backbone of the tribe and provide us with encouragment and support as well as ensuring we adhere to traditions and correct protocol.  Prior to setting up Maori Tours Kaikoura we approached our Kaumatua seeking their approval and guidance and will always be grateful that it was given willingly.  If not - Maori Tours Kaikoura would not be here today. 

Takahanga Marae - Takahanga 'Marae' (gathering place for Maori) is our spiritual base.  Many years ago our elders made a decision to keep their special place functioning as a working Marae and not to open it up to tourism.  For that reason our tours don't include a visit to Takahanga Marae.  As the marae is private property you are unable to wander through at your leisure, but must be officially welcomed, observing the correct protocol and ritual.

"A wonderful combination of natural, social and political history of a
Maori community - first class example of cultural tourism at work."    
(Graham Howe - Travel Writer - South Africa)

Quality Assurance - Maori Tours Kaikoura has been recognized as one of New Zealand’s leading tourism businesses by being licensed to carry the Qualmark™ endorsement - New Zealand tourism’s official mark of quality.  For more information about this endorsement please visit www.qualmark.co.nz

Department of Conservation Concessionaire – Maori tours Kaikoura is a Department of Conservation (DOC) approved Concessionaire and a portion of your fare is given to DOC.  DOC is the central government organization charged with conserving New Zealand’s natural and historic heritage for all to enjoy now and in the future.  You can learn more about DOC by visiting www.doc.govt.nz