Maori Rock Art
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Port
Timaru, New Zealand
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
12,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$180
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
South Canterbury is home to an ancient Maori rock art site. This tour is your opportunity to see authentic Maori rock drawings and will especially appeal to guests with an interest in history, anthropology and archaeology.
Drawn on smooth limestone are figures representing the Maori hunters and gatherers who, while sheltering in the caves, recreated the world they saw around them. Centuries ago, the artist drew animals, human figures and birds now long extinct (such as the flightless moa and the giant pouakai eagle), as well as creatures from Maori mythology.
Visit the Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre, which houses a significant collection of rock art removed from various sites around the district in the early 1900s.
Then, travel to Opihi to view one of the region's most famous rock art sites. You will be accompanied by a local Maori guide who will share his/her knowledge of the ancient trails the ancestors once followed, and the fascinating works of art that are their legacy.
Please note:
Terrain includes stairs and/or uneven surfaces. The walk to the rock art is moderate to strenuous. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring a jacket or sweater as it is cooler in the cave.