Buried Village of Te Wairoa
New Zealand’s most-visited archaeological site where stories of the 1886 Mt Tarawera eruption come to life.
Stories of survival and resilience are told throughout Buried Village's museum exhibits and in more than a kilometre of heritage excavations. Wander through our beautiful park where the people of Te Wairoa lived before the eruption which includes Te Wairoa Stream and waterfall walk. Although described as peaceful and tranquil, the regenerating forest hides the scars of one of New Zealand’s deadliest disasters.
Violent and unexpected, the volcanic eruption of Mt Tarawera on 10 June 1886 bombarded the peaceful village of Te Wairoa, ending more than 150 lives and destroying the eighth Natural Wonder of the World, the Pink and White Terraces.
Run by four generations of the Smith Family for nearly 90 years, Buried Village is an iconic tourist destination and New Zealand’s most-visited archaeological site. You can choose from a self-guided experience or ask our friendly team for guided tour times. There's even a treasure trail for the young and young at heart.
Enjoy a delicious bite to eat in the licensed café to finish off your experience by checking out the gift store, which has something for everyone.
Buried Village of Te Wairoa is a Proud member of the:
