One of Nz's greatest Natural disasters

The eruption of Mount Tarawera in the early hours of June 10, 1886 was New Zealand’s greatest natural disaster. Just after midnight, the people in Te Wairoa were woken by a sequence of earthquakes. Two hours later, a much larger earthquake was felt, followed by massive explosions. For more than four terrifying hours, rocks, ash and mud bombarded the peaceful village. 

The violent and unexpected eruption buried Te Wairoa and two smaller villages in the area under hot heavy ash and mud. It completely destroyed the famous Pink and White Terraces, one of New Zealand’s first tourist attractions, and it changed the landscape dramatically. Around 150 people lost their lives. The exact number of casualties has never been determined.