Rotorua, New Zealand: Te Puia, the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute

Those who like all different types of events in an attraction to be within walking distance of each other might consider a visit to Te Puia, the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute. You can have a variety of different experiences at that area within a few hours. 

First off, visitors have the chance to see traditional carving and weaving done by Māori students. They are learning a trade that has been handed down for many years. I believe that a woman recently made some history by becoming the first woman to be certified as a carver. You can see the young men and women at work, and some of the finished products are also on display. 

Then it's on to see the national bird, the Kiwi. A special area has been set up for a few of them, as they are endangered. There's one catch concerning a visit; kiwis are nocturnal.  Therefore, guests must go into a very darkened room in order to visit, and talking above a whisper and photography aren't allowed. A little luck is needed to see the birds moving.

Then it's on to the complex's geothermal valley, and there's a lot going on there. The star of the show is the Pōhutu Geyser. It the largest such geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, and can erupt to more than 30 feet in the air. They go off quite frequently, so you're going to see the burst during a visit. 

From there we had a nice buffet dinner in the eating area, which was followed by a demonstration of the Māori's culture and traditions. This place might not be for every tourist's tastes, but those who stop will find some rewards.