About

At the heart of the Ahimanawa experience is Te Matai.




Steeped in history - the Ahimanawa experience not only connects you to the land but offers a rich cultural connection to its Kaitiaki (Guardians).


Ahimanawa History


Ahimanawa is the mountain range, Te Matai is the mountain. Named after the Rangatira Matai Ahinau who navigated the ancient pathway joining two tribes, Ngati Kurapoto / Tuwharetoa and Ngāti Kahungunu. He was later slain on the mountain by an invading tribe.


The crown confiscated the land in 1867 and converted part of it into farmland. Reclaimed by its Kaitiaki (Guardians) - Te Matai and 9000 acres of untouched native bush is now unlocked for manuhiri (visitors) to experience the original Aotearoa (New Zealand). The reclaimed land lies between the Mohaka and Ripia rivers. The rivers were an abundant source of food for the local people.


The Waiokaka Lodge, which overlooks the Mohaka River, is located on the original whare (house) site where they gathered food. Situated in the isolated upper Mohaka catchment between Taupo and Hawke’s Bay, this exclusive land is now available to you to experience all its taonga (treasures).



Looking to the future



Sustainability and instilling a connection to the land are essential themes underpinning the activities at Ahimanawa.


Income generated through Ahimanawa allows us to sponsor community projects, practise Kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and sustainability of the whenua (land).


We support many local community initiatives including the annual Ahuriri Mussel Up for Manua Whenua, allowing Kaumatua and Kuia to taste Kutai (mussels) from the reef. The initiative practises Kaitiakitanga (guardianship) by managing resources and providing traditional kai (food) for the community.

Ahuriri Mussel Up for Manua Whenua Sponsorship


We also sponsor Rangatahi (young people) developing their connection with the whenua and planting the seed Te Kakano to support them on their journey in life.


Projects include biodiversity, conservation, education, training and goal setting. We have worked with over 200 rangatahi in the previous 20 years from a mixture of backgrounds.


Peter Eden is the Founder of Ahimanawa. He is a strong advocate for protecting Māori land. With his connection to it being part of his Whakapapa - an ancestral lineage that goes back generations. As a Kaitiaki (Guardian), he is passionate about sharing the unique experience of the untouched land with others and, at the same time, preserving it for future generations to enjoy.


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