Te Puia

 
This area on the edge of town is an active volcanic site still administered by the local Maori. A visit combines some spectacular geysers with a cultural show, displays on maori legend and tradition, a display of traditional building and two captive Kiwi birds to highlight their breeding program. They are also expanding the displays and incorporating carving and weaving schools.
 

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The newly built entrance area incorporates...
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Entrance gate
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...representation of 12 guardian spirits
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Bird trap
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Traditional canoe
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View down to the Geyser Terrace
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Geyser Terrace between eruptions
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With the dry weather the bubbling mud thickens and piles into cones
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Pohutu Geyser erupts, this happens about hourly
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The geysers here are left on a natural schedule
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Meeting house
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Stick game
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Haka
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Carving workshop
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Traditional houses used for sleeping, other activities occur in communal areas
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Above and right show food storage buildings
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Boiling pot used for cooking
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A selection of carving hide along a winding trail
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5 of the 12 guardian spirits
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