Lake Aniwhenua Community Programme, New Zealand

Location - Murupara, New Zealand

The aim of this project is to revitalise the Murupara town both socially and economically and to provide an authentic experience into modern Maori culture through tourism. The Ngati Manawa tribe have lived in the local area for centuries however the once prosperous forestry town has seen high level of unemployment due to the forestry industry relying more on machinery rather than human labour. As a result, the community have partnered with our local team and other tourism bodies to create economic opportunites through tourism. 

Travellers have the option to take a Maori experience which includes a traditional Maori greeting with a member of the Ngati Manawa Iti and then get a tour of the tribal lands on a forest walk and a visit to sacred archeological sites. Hear tales of traditional stories. Stay with a local Maori family and watch a traditional Hangi being prepared and hear stories about the local customs and challenges for the people in this area. This next day you can deliver some leftover hangi meals to the local school kids who may otherwise not have had a nutritious lunch - over 28,000 meals have been delivered so far!