Explore a World Forgotten at Auckland?EUR(TM)s Historic Buried City
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Uncover the buried village of Te Wairoa which was literally destroyed due to a volcanic eruption along with the breathtaking Pink and White Terrace. This village offers guests a unique look back at the eruption of Mount Tarawera and its aftermath.
Ideally located within 15 minutes of Rotorua lies the remnants of a century old village that was devastated by the eruption of Mount Tarawera nearly 120 years ago. One of Auckland's premier tourist attractions this excavated village lay buried deep within the earth in its shallow grave along with two other villages that still lie beneath the surface. Having claimed the lives of 150 people the volcanic eruption that destroyed the three villages also devastated the eighth wonder of the world - the Pink and White Terraces. The tranquil village of Te Wairoa is open to visitors today so that they may catch a glimpse of the utter devastation caused by the catastrophe over a century ago and explore the cultural remnants of this peaceful hamlet that was wiped off the map overnight.
The highlights of a tour of the buried village include its excavated archaeological sites that have uncovered a flour mill, stone store, school house, tiny homes and a blacksmith's shop. The archeological sites also include a tranquil 12-acre park with meadows, wildlife, towering trees and native bird varieties. The picturesque natural surroundings of the venue lined with native bushes and pathways with the Wairere Falls in the backdrop is also breathtaking; while the wild rainbow trouts swimming across Te Wairoa stream also offer visitors a glimpse of what must have once been a thriving village.
Guided tours of the buried site are also available during the day for 30 minutes at a time. Pamphlets and other information leaflets are also on hand for self guided tours while special tours for groups of 10 visitors can also be arranged with prior notice. The Museum of Te Wairoa is also worth exploring as the institution takes tourists on a journey through the events that lead to the destruction of the village with artifacts and other relics recovered from the village.
After a visit to the museum guests can stopover at the Te Wairoa Tearooms and enjoy a scrumptious snack and a cup of tea while the children frolic in the adjacent garden and playground.
Travellers on the lookout for a luxury hotel Auckland CBD will be more than pleased with the Copthorne Hotel Auckland Harbour City. Ideally located within close range of the city's CBD and the Vector Arena this award-winning Auckland hotel is one of the most conveniently situated rests on the waterfront.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
Category Article AucklandEURTMs, Buried, Explore, Forgotten, Historic, World
