This incredible experience is an interactive cultural, heritage, tourism and education centre that opened in Opononi, Hokianga in late 2020. TTF is proud to have supported this project and see it come to life.
Our team were blown away by this unique cultural encounter that transported us into Te Ao Māori through a 75-minute multisensory journey of guided storytelling.
The tour celebrates Kupe’s voyage to Hokianga and his journeys across Aotearoa through art, taonga and film. Based on over 1,000 years of local Māori history, Manea Footprints of Kupe has been 20-year-dream of John Klaricich, other Kuia and Kaumatua and Ngāpuhi.
Our tour began with a pōwhiri and an explanation of the po whenua which tell the story of Kupe’s journey. We were wowed by the 20-minute 4D-digital extravaganza and live performance in the theatre, performed by talented local people who themselves are direct descendants of Kupe. Overlooking the stunning Hokianga harbour, we learned about the significant of this magical place and enjoyed the Interactive Gallery, where digital stations reveal more details Kupe’s story.
Originally designed to attract overseas tourists to the Hokianga, Covid has seen the emphasis now turn to the education sector as the cultural experience links closely to many elements of the New Zealand Education Curriculum and Matauranga Māori. It’s proving a popular attraction to educate students far and wide across Aotearoa.
This is a culture experience unlike any other and should not be missed. Book your place here: https://maneafootprints.co.nz/
TTF funded the carving of the po whenua under our Māori Economic Development priority area.
