Experience one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary cultural adventures on the sacred slopes of Maunga Hikurangi.
Located near Ruatoria on the East Coast, Maunga Hikurangi is the first place on mainland New Zealand to greet the sunrise each day and holds profound cultural significance for Ngati Porou (local tribe). Few visitors ever have the opportunity to access this remote and sacred landscape, making every journey to the summit a truly unforgettable experience.
Led by Ngati Porou guides, our small-group tours combine authentic Māori storytelling, breathtaking scenery, and an exhilarating Can-Am and 4WD adventure through rugged backcountry terrain. Stand before the world-renowned Māui carvings and experience the stories, history and living culture of the people who have called this place home for generations.
As the only authorised commercial operator on Maunga Hikurangi, we provide exclusive access to one of Aotearoa’s most significant cultural landmarks.
Whether you choose the iconic sunrise tour or a daytime cultural adventure, a journey to Hikurangi offers a rare opportunity to connect with the land, the stories and the people of Ngāti Porou in a way few travellers ever experience.
Why Visit Maunga Hikurangi?
- Witness the first sunrise on mainland New Zealand
- Join an authentic Ngati Porou-led cultural experience
- Travel by Can-Am and 4WD through remote East Coast backcountry
- Access a sacred mountain rarely visited by tourists
- Explore one of Aotearoa’s most significant Māori cultural landmarks
- Experience meaningful storytelling and connection in small groups
- Stand before the spectacular Māui carvings
- Discover the traditions, history and living culture of the Ngati Porou people
- Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience far from the usual tourist trail
Te Urunga-Tu Sunrise Experience
Witness the first light of day from one of New Zealand’s most remarkable locations. The Te Urunga-Tu Sunrise Experience takes visitors on a guided 4WD journey from Ruatoria to Maunga Hikurangi, where you’ll watch the sun rise over the Pacific Ocean from the first point on mainland New Zealand to greet the dawn.
Surrounded by sacred cultural treasures and breathtaking scenery, this world-class experience combines spectacular natural beauty with the stories and traditions of Ngāti Porou.
Duration: Approximately 5 hours
Haramai Day Experience
The Haramai Day Experience provides an unforgettable daytime journey to Maunga Hikurangi. Travel through Pakihiroa Station by 4WD as the landscape transforms from rolling farmland to the dramatic summit region of this sacred mountain.
At the summit, stand before the famous carvings inspired by the stories of Māui and his whānau while learning about the history, traditions and cultural significance of Maunga Hikurangi from your local guide.
Duration: Approximately 4 hours
Waka Maunga 4WD Transport Service
As private vehicles are not permitted on the Maunga Hikurangi access track, we offer a convenient 4WD transport service for groups of three or more.
Ideal for visitors who are short on time or require assistance reaching the summit area, this service provides comfortable transport to experience the mountain’s spectacular scenery and world-famous carvings.
Duration: Approximately 1 hour
The Carvings of Maunga Hikurangi
One of the highlights of visiting Maunga Hikurangi is the opportunity to stand before nine larger-than-life whakairo (carvings) that tell the story of Māui and his legendary achievements.
Created by renowned Māori artist Derek Lardelli and his team, these impressive carvings represent one of New Zealand’s most significant contemporary Māori artworks and provide a powerful connection between the landscape, the people and the stories of Ngāti Porou.
About Maunga Hikurangi
Rising 1,752 metres above sea level, Maunga Hikurangi is the highest non-volcanic peak in the North Island. According to Māori tradition, it was the first part of Aotearoa New Zealand to emerge from the ocean when Māui fished up the North Island.
For Ngāti Porou, Hikurangi is far more than a mountain. It is an ancestral landmark, a source of identity and strength, and a place of immense cultural and spiritual importance.
Ngāti Porou Heritage
The story of Maunga Hikurangi is inseparable from the story of Ngāti Porou. The mountain and the Waiapu River have shaped the identity, values and traditions of the people for generations.
Visitors gain a deeper understanding of Ngāti Porou history, culture and connection to the whenua through authentic storytelling and local knowledge shared by experienced guides.
The Tiaki Promise
At Maunga Hikurangi, Tiaki means caring for and protecting the land, people and stories that make this place special.
We invite all visitors to travel responsibly, respect the cultural significance of the mountain and help preserve this extraordinary landscape for future generations. Together, we can protect one of New Zealand’s most treasured cultural destinations.
Book Direct
For tour availability, pricing and online bookings, please visit the official Maunga Hikurangi Tours website.
Explore More of the Gisborne & East Coast Region
Maunga Hikurangi is one of the most significant cultural attractions in the Gisborne and East Coast region. While visiting Tairāwhiti, explore stunning beaches, Māori cultural experiences, scenic coastal drives, walking tracks and local attractions throughout the region.
Read our Gisborne & East Coast Travel Guide for more things to see and do.
Quick Answers About Maunga Hikurangi Tours
Where is Maunga Hikurangi?
Maunga Hikurangi is located near Ruatoria in the Tairāwhiti East Coast region of New Zealand’s North Island.
Why is Maunga Hikurangi important?
Maunga Hikurangi is a sacred mountain of Ngāti Porou and is believed to be the first part of Aotearoa New Zealand to emerge from the sea when Māui fished up the North Island.
Can you drive up Maunga Hikurangi yourself?
No. Private vehicle access is not permitted. Visitors must join an authorised tour or transport service.
What can I see on a Maunga Hikurangi tour?
Visitors can experience spectacular scenery, the famous Māori carvings, Ngāti Porou stories, cultural heritage sites and breathtaking sunrise views.
Is the sunrise tour worth it?
The Te Urunga-Tu Sunrise Experience is one of New Zealand’s most unique cultural experiences, offering the opportunity to witness the first sunrise on mainland New Zealand while learning about the stories and traditions of Ngāti Porou.
