November 19, 2019
Murupara experience tops tourism awards
A Māori-owned business that is helping to revitalise the remote central North Island community of Murupara has won the community engagement award in this year’s Tourism Industry Association Awards.
Tour operator Stray first hooked up with accommodation provider Kohutapu Lodge in 2013 with the idea of providing an authentic insight into modern day Māori culture for Stray’s international visitors.
They can also take part in activities including flax weaving, the laying of a hāngi, tī rākau and storytelling.
Surplus food from the hangi provides lunch packs to Murupara Area School,
Delivering these meals in person has created an opportunity for facilitated educational exchanges between the international guests and the students who are able to share stories about their respective cultures, countries and careers.
Stray chief executive Brett Hudson says partnership is improving the wellbeing of the town and enriching the manuhiri’s experience by creating a personal connection with rural communities.
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