Pink and White Terraces

Before Mt Tarawera erupted on that terrifying night, the Pink and White Terraces on the shores of Lake Rotomahana near Rotorua were considered to be the eight wonder of the world. The terraces were formed as water containing silica flowed from the boiling geysers at the top down the hillside. The water cooled and crystallised into the terraces and pools, forming giant staircases or waterfalls.

The Pink and White Terraces, or Otukapuarangi (fountain of the clouded sky) and Te Tarata (the tattooed rock) in Moari, attracted tourists from far and wide. The White Terrace was the larger formation, covering 3 hectares and descending 30 metres. The Pink Terrace was where people went to bathe, which was usually on the lower levels where the temperature of the water was lukewarm.

When Mount Tarawera erupted, Lake Rotomahana erupted as well, blowing the stunning terraces completely to pieces. Photographs and paintings is all that remains of these once so beautiful natural wonders.

Te Wairoa (Buried Village) was the base for visitors setting out on guided tours of the Pink and White Terraces. In February 2011 Scientists announced that they had found what they believe to be part of the pink terraces 60m under water in Lake Rotomahana.