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An opportunity
to visit New Zealand's Pompeii.
Nobody would
have believed in June 1886, that the serenity enjoyed by the inhabitants
of Te Wairoa would be shattered by an outpouring of the Earths fury.
Few would have dreamed, as the eighth wonder of the world- the Pink
and White Terraces- sparkled in the moonlight, events deep in the
ground were menacingly unfolding.
Violent and
unexpected, the eruption of Mt Tarawera was New Zealand's greatest
natural disaster. For more than four terrifying hours rocks, ash
and boiling mud bombarded the peaceful village.
In the gloom
of the day, the wreckage of the hotels and houses, and the burial
of 5000square miles of scenic countryside brought awe and dismay
to rescuers.
Now, over 120
years later the excavated village offers a first-hand insight into
the devastation, chaos and mayhem that transpired on the night Mt
Tarawera erupted.
Take an emotional
journey through the Discovery Centre and relive the stories of Te
Wairoa and view the extensive collection of excavated objects..
Explore the
archeological site where Maori whare and Settler buildings have
been excavated to their original floor level. Wander the scenic
pathways that link the sites, catch a glimpse of a wild rainbow
trout that inhabit the Te Wairoa stream and be thrilled by the hike
to stand in the spray of the magnificent Te Wairoa Falls.
- Self guided,
or guided, the journey takes about ninety minutes.
- Delicious
food in the Café and distinctive gifts in the Store.
- Open everyday
from 9am, the last entry times vary with the season. 5pm in summer
and 4.30 in winter.
- Situated
15 minutes from the City on a scenic drive past three lakes and
views of Mt Tarawera.
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