Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre — Attraction in South Island

My wife and I visited this centre yesterday (23-04-14) and were glad that we did. The exhibit is well laid out, the various features are all intriguing and relevant, and the guide, Wes, was extremely informative. He is knowledgeable about all aspects of this centre: history, palaeoanthropology (the first people in this area, their art, their beliefs) and -biology (Haast's eagle, moa), geology (formation of greenstone along the fault lines), and more. Furthermore, and unlike many tour guides, he tactfully withdrew from time to time, permitting us to ponder the exhibits, including the video displays, on our own. We consider Wes to be an excellent host and representative of this fine centre. We learned a lot, from the displays and from him. All-in-all, this was a very enjoyable and educational two hours for us. We're glad we visited this rock art centre and will do so again. ...

A very interesting exhibit. We had seen this rock art in various places, but this explained all that is known about it. There was no tour available when we visited, but everything was well organized and clearly presented.

The attendant suggested we should plan to spent 45 minutes to an hour to see it. We were there for an hour and 45 minutes and didn't quite have a chance to view all the videos. I suggest the amount of time depends upon the interests of your group. Younger kids would have enough after a half hour. If you want time to read all the materials and view all the videos, you might allow 2 or 2 1/2 hours, or more.

I consider it worthwhile if you are interested in archeology, Maori...

Well structured art center with friendly staffs! My 3 years old son and elders parents in law also enjoyed watching feeling the exhibition, learn something new for us. Highly recommended! Also after visit here, there are local hand made market in the...