Experience the essence of Māori culture in Taupō through powerful haka and waiata that carry the stories of our people, our mountains, our lakes, and our rivers.
Join us for an authentic Māori cultural experience — from guided walks to Huka Falls with Snow, to hands-on weaving with Dinny, or sharing a traditional hāngī meal and cultural performance with our whānau.
The Haka Shop is a whānau-based business grounded in tikanga Māori — manaakitanga (hospitality), whanaungatanga (connection), and kaitiakitanga (guardianship).
We are proud of who we are and where we come from, and we welcome those who wish to learn, connect, and experience Māori culture in an authentic way.
Tuhingamata History
Tuhingamata (pronounced too-he-nar-martar), meaning “to stand and fight to the end,” is the name of our performing group.
Our rōpū is made up of members affiliated with Ngāti Tūwharetoa, with deep connections to the whenua and history of Taupō. The name Tuhingamata refers to an ancient battle site located in the scoria hills behind the Rangatira blocks of Acacia Bay — a place where our ancestors stood, fought, and fell.”.
Our kākahu reflects the whenua we come from — the red of the rāhoto (scoria) and the black of the tuhua (obsidian) found throughout the Taupō region. Like these elements, we are grounded in this place and proud to represent it as locals.
Our Kapahaka Affiliation
Tuhingamata (2016 – present)
Waiora Ano (2014 – 2016)
Te Awhiorangi (2008 – 2016)
Tūwharetoa (2011 – 2013)
Rongomaihuia (2007 – 2009)
Te Korowai o Te Raki
Nau Mai, Haere Mai
Welcome to The Haka Shop. We look forward to hosting you.
Geoff (Snow) Rameka
Ngati Tuwharetoa, Te Arawa, Tainui
Bachelor of Teaching
Bachelor of Māori Performing Arts
Tongariro Taupō Conservation Board Member
Outdoor Instructor, Guide
Kaihautu- Hoe Waka
Iwi/Hapu Representative Ngati Tuwharetoa
Dinny Haumoana
Snowdon-Rameka
Ngati Tuwharetoa, Tuhoe, Ngati Whaatua
NZdip Business Administration
Business Management
Bachelor of Māori Performing Arts
Traditional and Contemporary Weaver/Artist
What makes us special is our philosophy to interact & relate with you on a local level that you will enjoy!
We will not leave things to chance; like a war party, you will be challenged, intimidated and eventually welcomed into the bosom of our culture. In a short space of time, your senses will be stretched and excited by our dynamic energy.
