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A hāngī is a traditional Māori method of cooking: a pit is dug, stones are heated in a fire, food in baskets is placed over them, covered and left to steam-cook underground for hours. In Rotorua some operators use the natural geothermal steam of the Whakarewarewa valley instead of a fire pit — a method specific to this area.

Around three hours for the full evening experiences, plus transfer time. Most include a pōwhiri or welcome, a cultural performance, the hāngī meal itself, and often a bush or geothermal walk. Several operators pick up from central Rotorua accommodation as part of the price.

Yes. Evening cultural experiences are the single most-booked thing in Rotorua and regularly sell out in summer and school holidays. Book at least a few days ahead, more over Christmas and January.

Yes on both, with notice. The evening experiences are family-oriented and most run child pricing. Vegetarian, gluten-free and other dietary requirements are generally catered for, but they must be declared at the time of booking — the food is cooked in bulk hours in advance, so it cannot be arranged on the night.