Wellbeing

A premium cultural and wellness centre, Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa invites you to experience their unique healing practices and manaakitanga (welcoming of visitors) built on the legacy of Ngāti Whakaue.

Nestled on the foreshore of Lake Rotorua, Wai Ariki means ‘Chiefly Waters’ and offers two architecturally stunning and culturally authentic areas for you to explore, unwind, rejuvenate and relax.

Join Whanganui River Canoes for a three- to five-day canoe/kayak trip on the Whanganui River. You can choose to 'do it yourself' with a freedom hire, or have their guides cater to you and show you the best spots along the river.

Rua Awa Lodge offers picturesque self contained accommodation set amongst 20 acres of gardens, orchard, expansive lawns, pasture and native bush with views towards Mt Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Tongariro. The Lodge borders a DOC reserve that resonates withbirdsong, enjoy nature on your doorstep with fishing, walking, swimming and star filled night skies.

One of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations for a reason, Whakarewarewa offers an unforgettable, intimate and authentic day-time experience for all ages. 

Home to the Tuhourangi Ngati Wahiao people, residents have been welcoming and sharing their enviable way of life for over 130 years. This living Maori village is steeped in rich history and traditions that have been handed down through generations.

Join us for the experience of a lifetime on the stunning Kapiti Coast. Right on the doorstep of Kapiti Island, sailing and paddling a holopuni on the Kapiti Marine Reserve will leave you spellbound!

The holopuni – meaning to venture everywhere – is a unique sailing craft, a fusion of modern and traditional Hawaiian outrigger design. Built to harness the wind and current, our experienced holopuni skippers provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages and ability. 

For the freedom of solitary adventure, book our solo tour or share the moment with a couple or group booking.  

At The Exquisite Group, we recognise every person's luxury is different.  We curate bespoke, luxury experiences throughout Aotearoa for the discerning client ensuring we understand their needs whilst also focussing on the Tiaki of our whenua and ensuring they have the opportunity to return. We are a full Destination Management Company, bringing together all the services required to meet the clients wishes from when they first arrive through to their departure, providing exclusive experiences for whatever they wish, at the same time supporting our fellow members of NZMT and wanting them to return with friends and whānau in the future.

Mt Maunganui - surrounded by ocean, and the home of New Zealand's most popular mountain, Mauao.
Come join us to experience the area like we locals do, whether it be on the ocean or the land. You can partake in a stand up paddling adventure, an outrigger canoe experience or a cultural walk, guided by our experienced locals. We have a range of activities suited to all ages and abilities. We look forward to sharing our beautiful home with you!

~Carve your own unique piece of New Zealand~

Kia ora!

Immerse yourself in a hands-on, authentic, cultural experience and take home your own special piece of Aotearoa New Zealand.

Rain, hail or shine, Mike and Jan Goodall will show you the craftsmanship that goes into producing a taonga/treasure made from NZ's most prized stone - the pounamu. 

Classes are held at a studio located on their West Coast Farm - you can't get more authentic than that! Cost is $75 per person and a courtesy van is available.

Full tuition is provided and anyone can do it.  Take home that one off piece that you will always treasure.

Workshops are offered one to one or in small groups. Learn about some of the customs and traditions (tikanga) when working with NZ native flax (harakeke) and make some flowers and a small food basket to take home with you.
Also see harakeke growing and discover some of the other woven creations that can be made using raranga, the technique of Māori weaving. Hand made, unique, exhibition quality products are available for purchase.

Our cultural experience starts when our guide welcomes you into the tribal lands of Ngati Manawa (The Eel People), and regales you with stories of the area. During the tour, guests learn about the iwi’s ancestors, land settlement, spiritual connection with Eel, and takes guests through a short bush walk to hidden ancient Maori rock art carved 400 years before the Great Migration. Later, guests join in and help with the preparation of a hangi dinner at the lodge overlooking the lake, before enjoying a selection of optional afternoon cultural activities. Kohutapu Lodge can also offer daytime tours and gourmet indigenous lunch tours for the mature market, overnight accommodation, full and half day guided fishing and hunting trips as well as overnight marae stay and community visits/cultural exchange within our schools and community.