Where Culture Comes Alive in the Heart of Whangarei
Step into Hihiaua Cultural Centre and you’ll discover something truly special – a vibrant contemporary Māori precinct where culture isn’t preserved behind glass, but living, breathing, and evolving right before your eyes. Born from the vision of Whangarei’s Māori elders and community leaders, this cultural centre exists to reclaim, restore, and renew Māori identity and culture, particularly empowering rangatahi (youth) to connect with their heritage.
Located in central Whangarei, Hihiaua serves as a dynamic hub where tradition and contemporary creativity meet. The centre showcases the incredible talent of local and national Māori artists through rotating exhibitions that celebrate everything from traditional carving and weaving to modern printmaking and visual arts. These aren’t static displays – they’re conversations about identity, culture, and the evolving story of Te Ao Māori in Aotearoa today.
Watch master carvers at work in the on-site whakairo (carving) studio, where skilled kaiwhakairo breathe life into wood and stone, creating stunning pieces that honour ancestral techniques while expressing contemporary visions. The sound of chisel on timber, the scent of fresh wood shavings, and the focused dedication of artists at work create an atmosphere that’s both meditative and inspiring. It’s a rare opportunity to witness traditional arts being practised and passed down to new generations.
Beyond the galleries and workshops, Hihiaua pulses with life through regular events, performances, and cultural programmes. From kapa haka performances to contemporary Māori music, workshops teaching traditional skills, and community gatherings that bring people together, the centre creates spaces where culture is celebrated, shared, and experienced. The venue also hosts exhibitions that tackle important contemporary issues facing Māori communities, sparking dialogue and understanding.
Whether you’re passionate about art, curious about Māori culture, or simply seeking an authentic cultural experience in Whangarei, Hihiaua Cultural Centre welcomes you. This is where the past informs the present, where artists create fearlessly, and where visitors leave with a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage that shapes Northland. It’s more than a cultural centre – it’s a place where identity flourishes and connections are forged.
