Islands of Aotearoa
Islands of Aotearoa
“Ki te kotahi te kākaho ka whati, ki te kāpuia e kore e whati.” (Alone, we can be broken, standing together we are invincible)
*Tongikura nā Kingi Tāwhiao Matutaera Pōtatau Te Wherowhero
Māori culture has many traditional values, one of which is "Kotahitanga" or Unity. Here in the Islands of Aotearoa we hope that you will feel the power of unity as your family and friends interact with all of us.
Cultural Presentation: 20-minute presentations offered throughout the day
what you’ll experience
In the Islands of Aotearoa New Zealand, you’ll be welcomed inside Hawaikiroa, our ancestral meetinghouse; listen to the unique sounds of traditional and contemporary Māori music; observe the amazing skills in the art of the Poi and the Tītī-tōrea stick game; and, feel the power of the Haka, a uniquely Māori posture dance.
talk to a Native Māori from Aotearoa
The Polynesian Cultural Center is proud to share the culture and spirit of Aotearoa (The Land of the Long White Cloud) with the world. Our Māori students welcome your questions and the opportunity to share their stories.
Culture Links:
https://www.polynesia.com/polynesian-cultures/aotearoa
Islands of Aotearoa FAQ
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What can I experience in the Islands of Aotearoa village?
In the Islands of Aotearoa village, guests are welcomed into Hawaikiroa, an ancestral meetinghouse, and introduced to Māori culture through music, movement, games, and storytelling. The experience may include poi, Tītī-tōrea stick games, contemporary and traditional Māori music, and the powerful Haka posture dance.
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How long are the Aotearoa cultural presentations?
The Aotearoa cultural presentations are about 20 minutes and are offered throughout the day. They provide an easy way to learn about Māori traditions, values, music, and performance while leaving time to explore other island villages and activities during your visit.
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What does Kotahitanga mean in the Aotearoa village?
Kotahitanga means unity, and it is one of the traditional values shared in the Islands of Aotearoa village. The experience invites guests to see how family, friendship, teamwork, and shared responsibility are woven into Māori culture in meaningful and memorable ways.
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Is the Islands of Aotearoa village good for families?
Yes. The village is a welcoming place for families because the activities are visual, interactive, and easy to enjoy together. Children and adults can listen to music, watch demonstrations, learn about Māori traditions, and feel the energy of cultural practices like poi and Haka.
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Can I ask questions at the Polynesian Cultural Center’s Aotearoa village?
Yes. At the Polynesian Cultural Center’s Aotearoa village, guests are encouraged to ask questions and learn from Māori students who share their culture and personal stories. It is a respectful way to better understand Aotearoa, also known as The Land of the Long White Cloud.