Tikitiki

Intricately Carved Maori Church

Tikitiki is most famous for its intricately carved Maori church, St. Mary's Church, also known as "Te Whare Runanga o Ngati Porou". Built in 1926, the church is a stunning example of traditional Maori craftsmanship and design, with intricate carvings and tukutuku panels depicting the history and legends of the local Ngati Porou tribe. Take a guided tour of the church to learn about the symbolism and cultural significance of the carvings, or attend a Sunday service to experience the spiritual and musical traditions of the Maori Anglican community.

Rugged Coastal Landscapes

Tikitiki is surrounded by rugged and stunning coastal landscapes, with towering cliffs, rocky headlands, and remote beaches that are sure to take your breath away. Take a scenic drive along the winding roads of the East Cape, stopping at lookout points to admire the sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the distant mountains. Walk along the black sand beaches of Waipiro Bay or Waipapa Bay, where you may spot seals, dolphins, or even whales in the offshore waters. For a more adventurous experience, take a guided hike along the Te Araroa Trail, a long-distance walking track that winds along the coast, offering breathtaking views and a true sense of wilderness.

Rich Maori Cultural Heritage

Tikitiki has a rich Maori cultural heritage, with strong ties to the Ngati Porou tribe who have inhabited the region for centuries. Visit the Hinetamatea Marae, a traditional Maori meeting ground, to learn about the customs and protocols of the local community, or attend a cultural performance showcasing traditional Maori song, dance, and storytelling. Take a guided tour of the Tikitiki Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and photographs documenting the history and culture of the Ngati Porou people, or visit the nearby Te Puia Springs to soak in the natural hot pools and learn abouttheir healing properties in Maori tradition.

Outdoor Adventures and Wildlife Encounters

Tikitiki and the surrounding East Cape region offer a range of outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Take a guided fishing trip to catch your own fresh seafood, or explore the nearby rivers and streams on a kayaking or white-water rafting tour. Visit the Te Puia Springs Scenic Reserve, a lush native forest with walking tracks and picnic areas, to spot native birds such as the tui, bellbird, and kereru. For a truly unforgettable experience, join a guided tour to observe the rare and endangered New Zealand dotterel, a small shorebird that nests on the beaches of the East Cape.

Authentic Accommodation and Dining

Tikitiki offers a range of authentic accommodation and dining options that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and lifestyle. Stay at the Tikitiki Beach Campground, a scenic camping spot right on the beachfront, or book a room at the Hinetamatea Marae Stay, where you can experience traditional Maori hospitality and learn about the customs and protocols of the marae. Dine at the Waipiro Bay Store, a local institution that serves up fresh seafood and classic Kiwi fare, or visit the nearby Ruatoria Farmers' Market to sample locally grown produce and artisanal crafts.