Wai Ariki welcomes champion Māori performing arts group Te Kapa Haka o Ngāti Whakaue

Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa was recently honoured with a moving performance by Māori performing arts group, Te Kapa Haka o Ngāti Whakaue, touching the hearts of all in attendance. The performance was a true celebration of Māori culture and heritage. 

Wai Ariki, located on the shores of Lake Rotorua, is a world-class wellness and spa destination rooted in te ao Māori and inspired by the legacy of the Ngāti Whakaue iwi. It blends cultural storytelling, geothermal healing and holistic therapies to offer guests a deeply restorative experience unlike any other. 

Debbie Robertson, Wai Ariki’s General Manager shared, “We had the incredible opportunity to experience the powerful and beautiful Waiata-Ā-Ringa performed by our exceptional Kapa haka group, Ngāti Whakaue.

“Our international visitors enjoyed an unforgettable evening, enhanced by this stunning entertainment that truly elevated their wellness holiday experience. Ngā mihi nui, kia koutou, Te Kapa o Ngāti Whakaue.”

Every gesture and every lyric conveyed deep cultural pride and connection, creating an experience that was extremely healing and restorative, everything Wai Ariki offers.

Watch the video here.

This moment held even greater significance as Te Kapa Haka o Ngāti Whakaue had recently been crowned Toa Whakaihuwaka (overall champions) at Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga 2025, the world’s most prestigious Māori performing arts competition. 

Their winning performance, themed around aroha (love) and dedicated to the late Sir Robert Gillies, moved the nation and can be viewed here on YouTube. 

Te Kapa o Ngāti Whakaue, we say, ngā mihi nui (many thanks) and we hope to welcome you back to Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa very soon. 

Experience the magic of Wai Ariki for yourself and book your experience here.

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