Manaaki Tapoi Cultural Tourism

Take a journey with Whenua Iti Outdoors through the cultural history of Te Tau Ihu o Te Waka a Maui (the Top of the South) and Tai Poutini (West Coast). Learn from expert tutors and kaumatua, visit and stay on marae across the regions, and interact with local Māori business leaders.

Learning will focus on key elements of Maori culture and how they are interpreted in cultural tourism experiences. Students will gain an appreciation for the high regard that Maori culture is held in by overseas visitors and will have opportunity to interact with these visitors. You will learn the importance of strong connections to cultural heritage and the value these can bring to a wide range of career paths.

Each block, will involve a series of interactive experiential workshops delivered by subject experts from around the Nelson and West Coast region. Manaaki Tāpoi will appeal to students who are interested in careers such as tourism, hospitality, teaching, or setting up their own business. The programme is also suitable for students who wish to develop their knowledge about Maori traditions and stories.

Key details

What you learn:

• Kaitiakitanga (guardianship and protection) to the way Maori interact with the natural environment
• Local legends, stories and natural sites of significance
• Food preparation and serving on a Marae
• Making kete – traditional Maori baskets

Employment Options:

• Tourism guides
• Travel consultant
• Hotel management
• Teaching
• Cultural interpretation
• Entrepreneur

Further Study Options:

• Manaaki Tāpoi Level 3 (West Coast Trades Academy)
• Certificate in Outdoor Education (Level 4) (TPP)
• New Zealand Certificate in Tourism (Level 3) (TPP)
• Tourism and Hospitality – Sir George Seymour College (Level 3 to 5)
• Royal New Zealand Police College
• University studies – such as teaching, business or management studies