Opened by New Zealand’s Tourism and Associate Tourism Minister the Hon. Damien O’Connor and Hon. Dover Samuels – the Mud Hut (Maruata) signals a new accommodation dimension for the discerning visitor wanting that next level of Maori cultural understanding.

Don’t be fooled by the name; while the term ‘Mud Hut’ may not conjure up visions of comfort be assured Maruata has all the touches a discerning traveler could expect including; home theatre, plasma TV, heated tiled floors, broadband internet access, extremely comfy beds and native fern gardens.

The Mud Hut’s maori translation Maruata comes from its kaupapa (ethos) which is about creating a calm relaxing oasis where local Maori artists and tourism operators can promote their work in a new and continually changing way. Coming from two words; ‘Maru’ – to protect and ‘Ata’ meaning a new dawn - Maruata represents a refreshing way for visitors (through their accommodation) to continue their cultural journey of discovery throughout Aotearoa New Zealand 24 hours a day.