Enter the amazing world of Te Arawa, the first people to live in the Rotorua region, and discover the legendary stories that have shaped this area – including the world-famous Pink and White Terraces and the explosive 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera and its tragic aftermath.
Learn how the environment influenced the unique Te Arawa culture and understand the beliefs that guide their way of life. Discover how society was radically changed by the arrival of settlers from overseas.
Explore stories of the many beautiful taonga (treasures) that connect Te Arawa to their ancestors and guide them into the future. A number of significant Te Arawa taonga, from institutions across New Zealand and around the world, are now on long term display in this exhibition.
Meet famous leaders and heroes, and learn about the epic stories of the Arawa people: the poignant love tale of Hinemoa and Tutanekai; the dedicated guides who have shared Rotorua’s stories with visitors for over a century; and the legendary World War Two exploits of B Company 28 Māori Battalion.