Visitors to the Rugby World Cup tournament rated Waka Maori the best tourist experience, a survey shows.
The giant plastic canoe on Auckland's waterfront was a controversial structure, scorned by opposition parties, but Maori Affairs Minister Pita Sharples says it beat all the other attractions.
He's released a survey showing nearly 180,000 people visited Waka Maori and gave it an average satisfaction rating of 8.2 out of 10.
Fan Zone and the Cloud entertainment centre rated 7.7 and the Real New Zealand festival 7.8.
Waka Maori showcased Maori contribution to New Zealand's artistic, cultural, sporting and economic life.
Visitors spent an average $50 each in Waka Maori. Dr Sharples says that added up to $9 million for Auckland's economy.
News home