The area where Te Raukura-Te Wharewaka o Pōneke is located was harbour frontage to Te Aro Pā, an old traditional Māori village. Learn about the people of this place, the various elements and design of Te Raukura building and its connection to the Polynesian explorer Kupe. Hear stories about the two taniwha (mythological beings) in the harbour retold, find out about environmental impacts for Māori in today’s urban landscape and learn other fascinating facts about Māori culture in Wellington.
View the archaeological remains of a whareponga (house) at the Pā site, hear the story of the people who lived at the Pā and their journey to Wellington, gain exclusive access to a non-public excavation site. Discover Wellington’s hidden Māori treasures.