TE URUNGA-TU
SUNRISE TOUR
Price from NZD$299
Bookings are essential
The Te Urunga-Tu Sunrise Experience offers a unique and unforgettable opportunity to greet the dawn in the land of the first light.
Watch the world awaken surrounded by nine larger than life carved pou (pillars) that stand as sacred cultural treasures of the local Ngati Porou people.
Listen and learn as your expert Ngati Porou guide provides an in-depth and intimate story of each and every one of the carvings, who or what they represent and the significance they hold to the Māori culture.
With roots that can be traced back to the Māori creation story, to when Maui Tikitiki-a-Taranga slowed the sun, gifted us fire and fished Te Ika a Maui (the North Island) from the sea. Come hear our history, explore our land and meet the descendants of Maui on Maunga Hikurangi.
Tour Includes:
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4WD adventure to and from Maunga Hikurangi—the only tour company authorised to drive up the mountain
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Visit a sacred Māori cultural site
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Unique photo opportunities at the world's first sunrise
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Insight into the history of nine legendary Māori carvings
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Guided experience with an expert Ngati Porou guide
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Participation in a traditional Māori karakia (blessing)
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Light breakfast is provided at the summit
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Small group size, limited to a maximum of five participants
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Free Parking: Available at the bottom of Maunga Hikurangi
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Dress in Layers: Wear multiple layers so you can adjust your clothing as temperatures change from chilly dawn to warmer daytime.
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Bring a Raincoat: Prepare for unpredictable weather by packing a lightweight, waterproof raincoat.
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Wear Comfortable Footwear: Choose sturdy, comfortable shoes.
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Pack Essential Gear: Bring a hat to protect yourself from the elements.
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Carry Water: Stay hydrated and keep energy levels up with plenty of water.
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Safety Gear: A helmet will be provided for your safety.
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Breakfast Provided: A complimentary light breakfast is included in your tour.
Important Information
This service is highly dependent on weather conditions. Please ensure the weather is suitable for your chosen date before booking. Use the following links to check the 10-day weather forecast for the Ruatoria region:
For long-term bookings, you will receive a notification email 10 days prior to your tour to check weather conditions. If conditions are not suitable, consider rescheduling.
What people say
"My husband and I have just done the early morning sunrise tour. It was a very special experience for us and we would highly recommend it to everyone."
Wendy, Whakatane
"Once in a lifetime!! What a wonderful experience! Truly felt like a once in a lifetime opportunity! This is an early start but it is totally worth it.
ABV Wilson, UK
"A must do. Te Urunga-Tu/Sunrise Experience was amazing and well worth the early start - the views are beautiful, up and down the Maunga. I highly recommend this tour "
Mariette