ABSTRACT

This chapter reviews Māori cultural tourism developments during the past 25 years, with a focus on southern Māori tourism ventures. The involvement of Māori in the management of cultural values that are subjected to commodification for tourism purposes provides insights as to how an indigenous culture can be at the forefront of the management, ownership and delivery of tourism experiences. In comparison to many cultural groups, and despite the history of experiences of colonisation such as segregation or loss of lands, Māori are socially integrated within New Zealand society and consequently are the controllers of indigenous tourism experiences in the country. The Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre will be discussed in-depth as a case study of how collective approaches can authentically and ethically provide an indigenous cultural tourism experience.