By Sarah Sekula, exclusive story published on CNN.com
Orlando, Florida (CNN) As I glance around the entrance to Volcano Bay, Universal Orlando’s new 30-acre water park, I spot no ticket booths, no turnstiles.
Instead, there are totem poles, a concierge area and smiling faces. With ukulele music playing and water features flowing, it’s as if I’m entering an island resort.
“Hello, kia ora,” says a young man as he hands me a blue wristband. This Maori greeting, I soon find out, is part of Volcano Bay’s elaborate backstory.