How to I get the app?

How do I download the app?

Go to Google Play store or App Store and download the app now!

Who is your audience?

Primarily, the Arataki app is suitable for tourists, both foreign & domestic, who have little to no cultural or local knowledge.  This means the presentation and delivery of content will be most appropriate for that particular audience.  However we also think the app is suitable for anyone who wants to learn more about the many culturally significant sites around Aotearoa NZ.

It is our intention to provide future iterations that deliver appropriate content to different audiences with varying levels of knowledge.

How does it work?

What technology do you use?

Using our custom mobile app on your smart device, you can connect with the proximity (beacon) & GPS networks we have available.

We use either beacon or GPS markers at each of our culturally significant sites.  Your smart device uses its bluetooth connection or GPS (location services) to connect to our sites.

So, when you’re within physical range of a site, you can unlock cultural information specific to that site.

What is proximity technology?

In a broad sense, proximity technology allows a user to connect with a device or system to access data, when they are within range of that system or device.  This is achieved by using connectivity methods such as Bluetooth, NFC, GPS & geofencing.

What is a beacon?

A beacon is a small Bluetooth radio transmitter.  It’s kind of like a lighthouse: it repeatedly transmits a single signal that other devices can see. Instead of emitting visible light, though, it broadcasts a radio signal that is made up of a combination of letters and numbers transmitted on a regular interval of approximately 1/10th of a second. A Bluetooth-equipped device like a smartphone can “see” a beacon once it’s in range, much like sailors looking for a lighthouse to know where they are.

What is a guide?

A guide is a collection of sites that we’ve selected for you to explore.

We have heaps of Virtual Guides to choose from in-app.  Each Guide represents a selection of our sites.  All you need to do is select a Guide that you like from the available guides list, view the corresponding map to get your bearings, then start your journey.

Do I need an internet connection?

No!  Because our beacons use Bluetooth connectivity to communicate with your smart device, you do NOT need to be connected to the internet to interact with our sites.  This is useful for those sites that are in poor cellular coverage areas or remote locations.

However, from time to time when the app requires updating, and certainly when you download the app itself, you will require an internet connection (mobile data coverage).  Where possible, we recommend you use your home wifi or a free public wifi hotspot to download the app and any required updates.

What content is available to me?

Where is it available?

Currently we have cultural walking trails available in Tauranga only.  However we are working towards expanding our networks into other towns, cities & regions around Aotearoa New Zealand.  Subscribe to our mailing list to stay informed.

What content can I access?

Arataki allows you to unlock and receive cultural information and content that is accurate, credible, and has mana (integrity).  We serve up content to you in multiple formats including audio, video, text, images and web links.

What is Cultural Information?

Māori are the indigenous people of Aotearoa New Zealand.  We are rich in culture, history and traditions.  There are many culturally significant sites or waahi located around NZ, with each having its own unique story or history.

Arataki connects you with info about each of these culturally significant sites.  Learn about Māori place names, landmarks, stories, proverbs, history, songs and more.

How & where do you source your Cultural Information?

Arataki proudly partner with various Iwi and Hapu and their knowledge experts to source cultural information and content about culturally significant sites.  In this regard, we see ourselves simply as kaitiaki or caretakers of cultural information.

We never share cultural info or content that has not yet been vetted and approved by Iwi and Hapu.

Arataki have strong partnerships with Iwi and Hapu in Tauranga Moana, as well as relationships with other Iwi and Hapu groups around Aotearoa.

Tips & Tricks

Wear your headphones

For a better listening experience, wear your headphones or earbuds.

Be wary of your surroundings!

To avoid potentially hazardous situations and avoid accidents or harm, please be wary of your surroundings at all times!

Turn up your volume

For a better quality listening experience, turn up the volume on your smart device.