14 Nov 2013

Gateway unveiled to mark Rotorua cultural centre anniversary

7:59 pm on 14 November 2013

A Maori carved arched gateway was unveiled on Thursday as part of celebrations to mark the 50th year of a Rotorua cultural centre and popular tourist destination.

The new replica waharoa that was unveiled on Thursday.

The new replica waharoa that was unveiled on Thursday. Photo: SUPPLIED

A series of events are being held to recognise the anniversary of the act that set up Te Puia in 1963, which used to be known as the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute.

Officials unveiled a replica of an original waharoa (carved entrance way) that stood in the same valley as Te Puia 100 years ago.

The ceremony on Thursday morning was led by Tuhourangi kaumatua, Mauriora Kingi and the Reverend Bob Schuster for the new waharoa at the main entrance way at Te Puia.