Manaakitanga

Manaakitanga

“The way we care for people defines who we are.”

Manaakitanga is a Māori concept centred on hospitality, generosity, kindness, and caring for others. It is one of the most important values in Māori culture and is especially relevant to tourism and hosting visitors.

The word comes from manaaki (to support, care for, show respect, uplift others) and tanga (the practice or principle of something).

Manaakitanga is about making people feel:

  • Welcomed
  • Respected
  • Valued
  • Safe
  • Cared for
But it goes beyond simple customer service. In Māori culture, how you treat guests reflects your own mana — your honour, reputation, dignity, and standing. Showing generosity and genuine care enhances the mana of both the host and the guest.

Examples of manaakitanga include:

  • warmly welcoming visitors
  • sharing food and stories
  • making guests feel comfortable and included
  • helping others without expecting something in return
  • showing patience, empathy, and respect
  • creating a sense of belonging
In tourism, manaakitanga is often seen as the heart of authentic New Zealand hospitality. It is less about polished formality and more about genuine human connection.

At Wicked Wanders Tours, we embrace the Māori value of manaakitanga — the spirit of hospitality, kindness, respect, and genuine care for others. We believe great touring experiences are built not only on beautiful destinations, but also on the connections created along the journey. Every guest is welcomed with warmth, treated with respect, and encouraged to feel relaxed, comfortable, and part of the experience from the moment they join us.

As a locally owned small-group tour company, we take pride in sharing the landscapes, stories, and culture of the Bay of Plenty in a personal and authentic way. Whether exploring the coastline of Tauranga or the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, our approach is guided by manaakitanga — creating memorable experiences through generosity, friendliness, and genuine Kiwi hospitality. We want every guest to leave not only with great photos, but with the feeling they have been truly welcomed into our part of Aotearoa New Zealand.

WICKED WANDERS TOURS – “Footprints Creating Impressions”

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