Nau mai, haere mai ki Māwhera Pā

Māwhera Pā is part of the Pounamu Pathway experience, sharing the stories, journeys, and connections of this place and its people through an immersive indoor environment.

This is a self-guided visitor experience. While risks are considered low, there are inherent risks associated with entering and moving through the space.

By entering Māwhera Pā, you accept of these risks and acknowledgment that you are responsible for their own safety at all times.

 Nature of the Experience

Pounamu Pathway Māwhera Pā  is an immersive storytelling environment featuring:

·         Variable and low-light exhibition areas

·         Audio-visual storytelling and environmental soundscapes

·         Digital projections and interactive installations

·         Movement through multiple connected indoor spaces

For the famil programme visitors are hosted. 

Risks

Visitors should be aware of the following inherent risks associated with the experience:

1. Movement and environment hazards

·         Reduced or variable lighting conditions

·         Floor transitions between exhibition zones

·         Obstacles or changes in surface type

·         Distraction caused by immersive content

2. Sensory exposure

·         Audio effects and layered sound environments

·         Visual projections and dynamic lighting changes

·         Darkened or visually complex spaces

3. Shared space risks

·         Interaction with other visitors

·         Congestion during peak visitation periods

·         Reduced visibility in busy or low-light conditions

4. Access and mobility considerations

·         Use of ramps, lifts, and stairs throughout the experience

·         Movement between multiple exhibition zones

5. Emergency situations

·         Fire, evacuation, or other unforeseen incidents requiring rapid exit

·         Visitors must comply immediately with staff instructions and emergency signage 

Visitor Responsibilities

By entering Pounamu Pathway Māwhera Pā, visitors:

·         Accept and acknowledge all inherent risks associated with the experience

·         Agree to take reasonable care for their own safety and the safety of others

·         Agree to follow all staff instructions, signage, and safety directions at all times

·         Must supervise any children or dependants in their care

·         Must remain aware of their surroundings at all times

·         Must immediately report hazards, incidents, or safety concerns to staff

Failure to comply with these conditions may result in removal from the experience.

Visitor Wellbeing

Visitors should consider their personal circumstances before entering, particularly if they:

·         Are sensitive to low-light or immersive environments

·         Have hearing or visual sensitivities affected by audio-visual effects

·         Have mobility limitations

·         Have medical conditions that may be impacted by sensory or environmental stimulation

If unsure about suitability, visitors are encouraged to consult staff prior to entry.

Our Approach to Health and Safety

Pounamu Pathway Māwhera Pā maintains safety through:

·         Trained staff onsite during operating hours

·         Clearly marked emergency exits and evacuation procedures

·         Routine inspection, maintenance, and risk monitoring of all exhibition areas

·         Active management of visitor flow where required