Excursion Omaka maori marae tour at Picton

Explore the rich Maori history, traditions, and people during this immersive, half-day excursion to the Omaka Marae.

Picton, Omaka Marae, Traditional Welcome, Carved Meeting House

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 40-minute drive to the Omaka Marae. Nestled among the beautiful landscapes and wineries of Marlborough, the Omaka Marae is the cultural meeting place of local Maori. Your visit today represents a wonderful opportunity to access a living marae (pronounced 'ma-rye'), and its history and people. Upon arrival, receive a traditional welcome and take a guided tour of the carved meeting house.

Maori Cultural Performance, Singing and Dancing, Morning or Afternoon Tea, Gift Shop

Next, proceed for a Maori cultural performance of song and dance. Don't miss the haka, a legendary Maori war dance that's bound to send shivers up your spine. Once your hosts are assured of your peaceful intentions, sit back, relax, and enjoy morning or afternoon tea. Feel the warmth of Maori hospitality as your hosts share with you more than 800 years of unbroken family history and tradition in Marlborough. A small gift shop is also available at the marae to purchase a memento of your visit.

Marlborough Wine Country, Vines Village, Wine Cellar, Café, Boutique Retail Shoppes, Free Time

Afterward, re-board your coach and head for a shopping stop at the Vines Village, a boutique collection of unique retail shoppes. This Rapaura Road landmark features a tranquil lakeside setting in the heart of the Marlborough wine country. During a guided tour of the wine cellar, café and six artisan stores, you can sample and purchase award-winning boutique wines, Marlborough olive oils, handmade fudge, and wonderful liqueurs. Merino fashion, gifts, designer homeware, crafts, and quilts are available for sale at the Quilters Barn. Your tour concludes with an approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Picton, Omaka Marae, Traditional Welcome, Carved Meeting House, Cultural Performance, Tea, Vines Village, Wine Cellar, Café, Boutique Retail Shoppes, Free Time

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven, natural, and gravel surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, bottled water, a light sweater or jacket, and local currency or credit cards for additional purchases from the ship. Guests may be asked to remove their shoes and hats to enter the Marae (Maori meetinghouse). The tour sequence may vary.