Karitāne Māori Tours is owned and operated by the Kāti Huirapa whānau,
the tangata whenua (indigenous people) of the area.

Their passion for the environment sees them taking an active role in habitat restoration, both on the land and in the water. Through Karitāne Māori Tours,
whānau are able to share their love of being on the water with their passion for people and the environment.

The fleet of waka is a combination of old and new, double-hulled and outrigger.
The revitalisation of waka on the river follows the strong cultural traditions of the past on the Waikouaiti River and links the people of Kāti Huirapa to the landscape.

“When people leave this place
we hope they will look at their own environment
with new eyes and remember our special place.

We love sharing our stories and the tranquility
and slower pace of life that you find here,
where the ocean meets the land.”