Despite its destructive history, Mount Tarawera today is a sleeping giant.
Back in 1886, the eruption of Mount Tarawera was one of New Zealand’s worst recorded natural disasters. 120 people lost their lives, villages were destroyed and the legendary Pink and White Terraces – the eighth wonder of the world – were decimated.
But since then, the mountain has been relatively peaceful.
Today, you can climb the scree slopes to the summit on a guided tour for stunning views across Rotorua and all the way to the Pacific Ocean.
Marvel at the multi-coloured gravels and scoria formed in the eruption and even descend into the main crater itself.
Mount Tarawera is under the guardianship – kaitiakitanga – of local Iwi, Rangitihi, so the mountain is only accessible with certified guides.
