HISTORY AND CULTURE
Learn about the strong history and culture of the coastal Bay of Plenty. First up is a visit to the Elms Mission House, one of the most significant places in the history of New Zealand. The Elms is the name of the Mission House which was the home to the first Europeans to live permanently in the area.
Learn about the story of the beginning of European life at The Elms. The land the Elms is situated on used to be on the water’s edge, and during a stroll around the grounds there are a number of informative boards to read and see what life was like back in the mid-1800s.
The Mission House and library are open for guided tours, during which volunteers enlighten visitors about the history of the area and the family. Many original items of furniture brought here from England are still located in the buildings and there are audio recordings to further educate visitors about Tauranga’s past.
Duration: Allow 1-2 hours
Visit Paparoa Marae for a memorable opportunity to experience traditional and contemporary Maori life firsthand. Paparoa Marae, set in scenic Te Puna in Tauranga, helps visitors learn about Maori culture through the traditional welcome, the wero (challenge), welcoming speeches and the hongi (traditional greeting).
Groups can also feast on a traditional hangi and be entertained by Paparoa Marae’s cultural group. Bookings are for groups only.
Duration: Allow 3-4 hours
