The Pounamu Pathway
The Pounamu Pathway is a series of four interconnected visitor experience centres that will be built up and down the West Coast. The centres will showcase world-class storytelling, created in collaboration with the acclaimed Wētā Workshop. Two have been built so far – the Museum of Kawatiri in Westport and the Māwhera Pā in Greymouth.
Stories of the local tribes
The Māwhera Pā centre offers an in-depth exploration of the rich heritage and traditions of Poutini Ngāi Tahu (the local tribes of the West Coast). In the heart of Greymouth town, experience Māwhera Pā with its breathtaking architectural designs, the centre takes you through many stories within the one building from showcasing the early Māori establishment in the region, retelling historic battles, as well as stories of the local community.
The mastery of Wētā Workshop
Plunge into the stories of Tūhuru, the legendary Ngāi Tahu chief, who led his tribe through many vicious battles. In a circular theatre, the battles fought between Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Wairangi for control of pounamu are dramatically evoked by audio.
Included in the display is an utterly lifelike two-and-a-half scale replica of Tūhuru, who led the campaign. In collaboration with Wētā Workshop, stories are portrayed with cutting edge technology to bring Tūhuru to life. Enjoy the mastery of the detailed work carried by specialists at Wētā Workshop.
How to find Pounamu Pathway – Māwhera Pā
43 Tainui Street, Greymouth 7805
How to get to Pounamu Pathway – Māwhera Pā
Add this activity onto your great adventure when you escape by rail to the West Coast aboard the TranzAlpine train.