The Lost 8th Wonder / 29 June - 16 July 2011

On May 31, 1886, tourists and guides crossing Lake Rotomahana on their way back from the Pink and White Terraces saw a mysterious waka-wairua, or spirit canoe. This, along with the strange tidal surges of the lake that morning, was seen as a portent of disaster and death. Ten days later Mount Tarawera erupted, burying the surrounding land, villages and famed Pink and White Terraces in mud and ash. Approximately 120 people died in the eruption and the Terraces - considered the 8th wonder of the world, were destroyed forever.
Before the eruption the visual splendour of the Pink and White Terraces marked them on the global map and a lively tourist trade developed, fostered by local Maori, in particular guides such as Sophia Hinerangi. Many artists and photographers visited the Terraces prior to their destruction and the images created are a fascinating reminder of these lost great landmarks. Photos of the Terraces were used as tourist souvenirs and featured on early postcards. Artists such as George Valentine received a high demand for images of the Terraces, both locally and internationally and were able to recreate and sell their work for many years after the eruption, such was the fame the site held.