Violent and unexpected, the volcanic eruption of Mount Tarawera was New Zealand ’s greatest natural disaster. It destroyed the eighth wonder of the world – the magnificent Pink and White Terraces. For more than four terrifying hours, rocks, ash and mud bombarded the peaceful village of Te Wairoa . Now nearly 120 years on, the excavated village offers a first hand insight into the devastation, chaos and mayhem that transpired on the night Mount Tarawera erupted.
Discover the Buried Village
Hover over the red dots below for a detailed description of the location.
Museum of Te Wairoa Visitors can take an emotional journey through the museum which tells the fascinating story of Te Wairoa village, the voyages to the Pink and White Terraces and the eruption of Mount Tarawera.
See artifacts and remnants recovered from the village and experience a night in the Rotomahana Hotel with one of the guests at the time of the volcanic eruption.
Also included in the museum are displays on archaeology and vulcanology, and a children’s discovery room.
Excavated Archaeological Sites View this registered historic area, where Maori whare and settler buildings have been excavated to their original floor level.
Amongst the excavated sites you will find a special peacefulness. The 12 acre park-like setting filled with tall trees, meadows, native birds, wildlife, peace and tranquility.
Natural Features Wander the scenic pathways that link the sites, enjoy pristine native bush, view the sensational wilderness above the Wairere Falls looking out over remote volcanic scenery and catch a glimpse of the wild rainbow trout that inhibit the Te Wairoa stream.
Be thrilled by the hike to stand in the spray of the magnificent Te Wairere Falls which plunge 30 metres to the bush-clad valley below.
Guided Tours Guided Tours are complimentary with general admissions and leave at various times during the day. Allow 30 minutes. Exclusive guided tours can be arranged for groups of 10 or more by arrangement.
The Tuhourangi people were the original inhabitants of Tarawera and have a long history of welcoming and guiding visitors. They were New Zealand ’s first tourism entrepreneurs taking visitors to the terraces. Today their descendants proudly guide at the Buried Village .
