Highland Paradise cultural tour

After a lovely warm day relaxing - with a side of snorkeling and beaching - we were picked up for an evening out at one of the local cultural experiences. The most authentic according to several locals. Very well done, most hospitable and meaningful. After being picked up at our hotel, we drove halfway up the mountain to the reinvigorated meeting place of a family descended from one of the original island chiefs. We are treated to a traditional welcome, our bus "chief's" fruit basket offering was accepted and we were shown the ancient marae the view and regaled with wondrous tales of war and peace. The marae is not at all like a NZ marae in appearance, but equally significant. Followed by an umu feast, wonderful "dinner music" and of course, a dance show. Great humor throughout, beautiful singing and dancing. A top notch evening! Notably, no poi used in the dances. Where did NZ Māori pick that up I wonder...Read more