Rotorua, New Zealand 
- Access to award-winning Museum of Te Wairoa exhibition
- Trail to Te Wairoa (Wairere) Waterfall
- Excavated archaeological village walk
- Activities for children including Children’s Discovery Room and Treasure Hunt
WHERE WE VISIT
- Buried Village of Te Wairoa
- Wairere Falls
- Waitoharuru Valley Lookout
What's Included
Why do we love this
We love that this tour gives you access to a fascinating part of New Zealand's history. This was the beginning of tourism in New Zealand with the journey to the world-famous Pink and White Terraces. We think the chance to see native bush and discover flora and fauna above the Wairere Falls is pretty cool too.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Experience New Zealand's most visited archaeological site. This is where stories of the 1886 Mt Tarawera Eruption come to life!
One of New Zealand's greatest natural disasters, the eruption lasted for more than 4 hours, and killed over 150 people. Today, thanks to sensitive restoration and preservation of this archaeological area; you can see what life was like at the village before, during, and after the eruption. It's a fascinating journey that offers a unique insight into New Zealand's history.
There's a lot to take in here, so come prepared for a day of exploration and learning. Spend your time wandering the archaeological sites, take a rest in Vi’s tearooms and enjoy the freshly baked scones and muffins or explore the native bush around Te Wairoa.
Don't miss the award-winning Museum of Te Wairoa exhibition, where you'll discover an incredible collection of excavated objects (Taonga) that are over 130 years old.
You'll also get to explore the many archaeological sites and walk among and enter the very sites that once housed the people of Te Wairoa.
These attractions reveal the devastation the eruption caused this European and Maori village settlement and tell an important historical story.
Take part in one of the informative talks scheduled throughout the day where you'll learn more about the history of the area and hear stories from knowledgeable guides. You can also choose to explore the area with a self-guided multi-media tour.
Once you've soaked up some history, take a break in one of the many tea rooms nestled in the tranquil native surrounds of the village. There's delicious Devonshire Tea available and an adjacent playground that's great for kids. Families will also enjoy the Children’s Discovery Room in the museum - an interactive discovery experience especially designed for children, but enjoyed by adults too! Listen to stories, and read about children living in Te Wairoa area from around the 1860’s. There's something for everyone at Te Wairoa!
Your pass will also give you access to a beautiful waterfall trail which showcases the stunning Te Wairoa (Wairere) Falls. Stand in the spray of the waterfall as it plunges 40 meters to the valley below, just what you need after the steep climb! For those after a less intense option, take the flat track to the Waitoharuru Valley Lookout where you'll enjoy breath-taking views over Lake Tarawera (allow 20 minutes for the trail.)
Visits to Te Wairoa Buried Village take roughly 1-1.5 hours. This includes the whole Buried Village experience (including the Museum of Te Wairoa, Archaeological Site, and the Waterfall Trail).
Add
