March 25, 2026

#regional: Te Arawa Takes Ownership of Iconic Rotorua Duck Tours

Matthew Tukaki Posted On March 25, 2026

Te Arawa has taken a significant step in shaping the future of tourism on its own whenua and waters, with Te Arawa Management Limited completing the purchase of the Rotorua Duck Tours operation.

The acquisition brings one of Rotorua’s most recognisable and internationally established tourism experiences under iwi ownership, reinforcing a growing movement toward Māori-led tourism grounded in cultural integrity and long-term economic development.

The decision is anchored in the principle of mana whakahaere – the ability for Te Arawa to exercise authority over activities taking place on its lakes. As the recognised owners of the lakebeds, Te Arawa Lakes Trust, through its commercial arm, has moved to take responsibility for an operation already utilising those waterways.

Ownership now provides the ability to guide how stories of the lakes are shared, how visitors engage with the environment, and how cultural values are upheld across the experience.

Rotorua Duck Tours has operated for many years and built a strong reputation both domestically and internationally. The previous owners, Peter and Trevor Weir and their whānau, have been acknowledged for their long-standing contribution to the tourism sector and the development of the business into a well-known Rotorua attraction.

Ahead of the purchase, environmental assessments were carried out to ensure the activity aligns with the protection of the lakes. Findings confirmed the operation meets environmental standards, with Te Arawa Lakes Trust maintaining its independent role as kaitiaki, responsible for safeguarding the health and wellbeing of the lakes.

Te Arawa leadership says the move represents more than a commercial transaction. It is a strategic investment aimed at building a sustainable economic platform while ensuring tourism activity reflects the values of tangata whenua.

The acquisition is expected to generate ongoing revenue that can be reinvested into iwi aspirations, while also creating opportunities for Te Arawa uri in employment, leadership, and business development.

It also signals a broader direction for Māori tourism – one where iwi are not only participants in the industry, but owners and decision-makers shaping its future.

There is also a clear emphasis on maintaining strong relationships with iwi connected to the lakes, including Tūhourangi and Ngāti Rangitihi. Collaboration and shared understanding are being positioned as essential to ensuring tourism development aligns with both cultural responsibility and economic opportunity.

At its core, the move reflects a balance between kaitiakitanga and growth – protecting the mauri of the lakes while creating pathways for prosperity.

For Te Arawa, the message is clear: the future of tourism on their waters will be defined by their values, their leadership, and their commitment to ensuring long-term benefits for their people and the environment.