Mātaatua Wharenui

Mātaatua – The House That Came Home

Mātaatua was officially opened in 1875 and dedicated to Queen Victoria as an expression of goodwill from the people of Ngāti Awa. Not long after opening, the house was dismantled and uplifted by the New Zealand Government to be exhibited at the 1879 British Empire Exhibition in Sydney, Australia. From Australia the house was taken to London where it was visited by British monarchs King George V and Queen Mary.

The house returned to New Zealand in 1925 as part of the South Seas Exhibition and spent the next 71 years as a permanent exhibit at Otago Museum. A 1996 Waitangi Tribunal Special Deed of Settlement finally saw Mātaatua returned to Ngāti Awa. After so long away, Mātaatua was finally on the journey home.

The past 15 years have been focussed on restoring Mātaatua to its original majesty. As can be expected, a century of long ocean voyages, intercontinental passage and incorrect assembly had taken a considerable toll. Fresh carvings have been hewn under the guidance of late Ngati Awa master carver Te Hau o te Rangi Tutua who lead a team of talented artists from throughout the Mātaatua tribal region.

The Meet Mātaatua Experience

An unforgettable encounter with a Story, a House and a People. Stand with your Ngāti Awa host at the foot of Mataatua and discover what makes the house so very special. Step inside and be transfixed as the ancient carvings are brought to life in Hiko:Legends in Light - the world class Mataatua digital spectacle. Then, take time to explore the house and be amazed by this powerful New Zealand experience.

Prices:  Adults $NZD29.50, Children (Under 14) $NZD10, Seniors (65 and over) $20, Family Concession: $59.00 (2 Adults and up to 3 Children)

Start your journey today at www.mataatua.com or book in person at the Te Hono Ki Te Ao Visitor Centre @ Te Mānuka Tūtahi Marae, 1 Mataatua St, Whakatane.