Hikoi -Culture Journey (English)

For many years now, the cultural dance of the Māori of New Zealand has been a significant part of our life’s journey. Through it, we have experienced how Indigenous power remains alive and applicable in practical ways, even in today’s world. More than ten years ago, Tohunga Wairua (spiritual leader) Wai Turoa-Morgan, together with Klaus Wintersteller, led the last cultural and pilgrimage journey to Aotearoa (New Zealand). In 2017, Tohunga Wairua Wai Turoa-Morgan passed away, leaving a deep void. However, her legacy and wisdom continue to live on, and it is a great honour and joy for us that her granddaughter, Jenna-Rose Maharata Astwood, is now continuing this valuable work—in her own unique way—with deep dedication and commitment.

Date (to be confirmed): 19–31 January 2026

On this journey, you will have the opportunity to connect with the ancient knowledge of this Indigenous people. You may finally-perhaps after a long yearning—come into contact with yourself, the group, your ancestors, your primal power, and many other aspects that may have long been buried or hidden from view.

This cultural exchange is about Whananga-a space for learning, connection, strength, energy, emotion, and the joy of travelling. Together, we embark on a journey toward our own inner strength, appreciation, and self-empowerment.

Hikoi is a Māori word that simply means „hike“ or „journey.“ In our context, however, it can be understood more as a cultural, healing, and pilgrimage journey.

This pilgrimage offers a space for personal development, where each participant has the opportunity to encounter themselves on a deeper level. In the Whananga (space for learning and exchange), valuable insights into Māori culture, its wisdom, and its traditions are shared.

Both these teachings and the spiritual and healing aspects of the journey can be enriching for European culture, offering new perspectives on connection, mindfulness, and how we relate to our own inner strength.

At the same time, it is of great importance to the Māori to foster international relationships, in order to share their knowledge and build vibrant, living bridges between cultures.

Approximate cost: ~ €5,000.00 + flight
Flights to Wellington, Auckland, or Christchurch

The travel route will take us to several important cultural sites of the Māori.

Accommodation: Full board with meals included

Travel expenses include:
• Accommodation
• Rental buses
• Bus travel
• Additional van for service trips
• Possibly ferry from the North to the South Island

Team & Services:
• Hosts (Koha – contributions to the Marai owners)
• Marai rental
• Cook
• Traditional Hangi
• Teachings / Haka / Rituals

Additional options (at extra cost):
• Massage & personal healing sessions
• Individual activities outside the travel group

What is planned*:
• Hikoi People – Hikoi Journey (experiencing the Hikoi together as a group)
• Haka People – Haka Journey (dancing Haka together with Māori)
• Kapa Haka – enjoying Māori performing arts and music
• Music – Healing (Taonga Puoro – the playing of traditional Māori flutes)
• Rongoā – Māori medicine

*All details subject to change.