Wellington's Cultural Offer Just Got Hotter
05 October 2007
Taonga MataOra peformer doing the haka
Wellington’s cultural tourism offer has just got hotter, thanks to an exciting new product at Te Papa.
Taonga MataOra is a three-hour experience which offers guests an outstanding combination of contemporary indigenous cuisine with authentic and dynamic cultural performances – all in the vibrant setting of Te Papa’s marae (communal meeting place), Rongomaraeroa.
“Taonga MataOra is a unique expression of our contemporary culture and ancestral connections with the Pacific community,” says Te Papa’s Tourism Marketing Manager, Bridget MacDonald. “It reflects New Zealand’s ‘living face’ and taonga (treasures) through a combination of storytelling, performance and cuisine. The Museum is delighted to add a new dimension to the Wellington experience with this enriching celebration of culture.”
Guests are welcomed to Te Papa with a mihi (customary greeting) then led through the Museum to Signs of a Nation – our Treaty of Waitangi exhibition. Here, canapés and drinks are served and guests are introduced to the major cultural strands that make up contemporary New Zealand – Māori, European, and Pacific.
A three-course dinner is served on Rongomaraeroa, where guests enjoy three 20 minute performances by Māori, Samoan, and Cook Islands communities. An MC provides commentary on the significance of the surroundings and the performances.
The dining experience showcases New Zealand’s distinctive cuisine. It brings together Western culinary traditions and indigenous recipes with the best of fresh produce, fine wines and beverages.
Positively Wellington Tourism has supported Taonga MataOra since its inception. “Wellington needs commissionable tourism products in order to grow its international visitor markets,” says CEO Tim Cossar. “Taonga MataOra fits in this category, and will add a real depth to the city's cultural tourism offer."
"We know that international visitors seek experiences that give an insight into our culture and identity. We believe Taonga MataOra offers a unique experience because of its setting within our national museum, Te Papa. We're excited about this new product, and will continue to support it through marketing."
The entire evening is an expression of customary hospitality – welcoming, entertaining, and enriching – a memorable encounter with contemporary New Zealand culture. Taonga MataOra will run weekly on Wednesday evenings, 6.45pm–10.15pm from October to March. FIT and group bookings available. Retail price: NZ$149 per person, including GST.
For more information and online bookings visit: www.taongamataora.co.nz
