Known as the Eighth Wonder of the World, the geothermal landscapes of Lake Rotomahana once drew adventurous tourists to witness the awe-inspiring Pink and White Terraces in the mid-19th century. However, the catastrophic eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886 obliterated these natural marvels, along with two nearby villages, forever altering the region’s landscape. Visitors of that time endured a challenging journey from Rotorua, traversing hills by horse and cart, crossing waters by canoe, and finally trekking on foot to reach the terraces. Today, all that remains of the once-majestic terraces are captured in old photographs, postcards, and artworks, preserving the memory of their breathtaking beauty. The Pink and White Terraces were formed over millennia by the cascading silica-rich waters of geysers spouting above Lake Rotomahana. The terraces, showcasing hues of pink and white with crystal-clear water pools, were a sight to behold. The White Terraces, sprawling across seven acres and plunging nearly 100 feet, and the smaller Pink Terraces, where visitors could luxuriate in thermal baths, left lasting impressions on all who beheld them. The tragic eruption of Mount Tarawera not only claimed lives but also reshaped the geography of the area, significantly expanding Lake Rotomahana. Now 20 times its original size, the lake is the deepest in New Zealand’s North Island and one of the country’s newest larger natural lakes. Today, Lake Rotomahana remains a hub of geothermal activity, with bubbling hot springs, steam billowing from cliffs, and reminders of its warm nature, as reflected in its very name. Legend has it that the phantom canoe of Rotomahana serves as a harbinger of disaster, with sightings preceding the catastrophic eruption. Though skeptics offer rational explanations, the tale persists among locals, adding an air of mystique to the lake’s history. Once a bustling community, the Buried Village today serves as a sad reminder of the catastrophe and invites guests to tour its museum and excavated ruins. As one of 16 volcanic Rotorua Lakes, Lake Rotomahana is a marvel of nature best appreciated through guided tourist cruises, offering close encounters with the remnants of the Pink and White Terraces and the lake’s unique ecosystem. Anglers also frequent the lake, drawn by its remote beauty and exceptional rainbow trout fishing, making it a serene haven for those seeking solace in nature. Despite human intervention altering nearby geothermal landscapes, efforts to preserve Lake Rotomahana as a natural refuge for wildlife and a sanctuary for endangered birds ensure its future as a cherished national treasure. This unspoiled wilderness continues to captivate visitors with its stunning beauty and rich history, inviting all to witness its enduring splendor.
