Exploring Māori Culture Through Minecraft

Minecraft-style character standing on a viewing platform overlooking New Zealand’s geothermal landscape, with steaming geysers, turquoise water, and lush greenery in the background.

Exploring Māori Culture Through Minecraft

Exploring Māori Culture Through Minecraft

Tourism New Zealand collaborates with Minecraft to grow and promote interest in Māori culture and community

Destination: Māori Tourism, New Zealand

Organization: Tourism New Zealand

Consumer website

Can Minecraft promote responsible tourism to a new generation of visitors? Tourism New Zealand says “yes”.

Tourism New Zealand has launched an innovative campaign combining the virtual world of Minecraft with Māori culture. This downloadable content lets players explore iconic New Zealand locations while learning about the rich traditions and stories of the Māori people.

The game promotes positive traveler behaviors. Developed in collaboration with Tiaki, Care for New Zealand, it teaches players how to explore the country responsibly, emphasizing respect for both cultural heritage and the environment.

Through immersive experiences that focus on Māori narratives, players engage with the land and culture in a meaningful way. This provides educational value as players navigate the landscapes and participate in activities that highlight the culture’s depth and significance. 

Players gain an understanding of local customs, legends, and the broader history of the land. The campaign fosters cultural respect and environmental awareness, making it both fun and informative.

Roya Sadat Alavipour
ralavipo@purdue.edu