Buried Village of Te Wairoa is an award-winning attraction at one of New Zealand’s most significant historical sites
Last updated: 29 October 2026
What can visitors experience at the Buried Village of Te Wairoa?
Located near Lake Tarawera, the Buried Village of Te Wairoa combines an indoor museum with an outdoor archaeological and native bush waterfall walk, bringing history to life through immersive storytelling. The museum introduces Te Wairoa, its people, early tourism around the lost Pink and White Terraces and the events and consequences of the 10 June 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption. Visitors then walk through excavated parts of the former settlement and can continue beside Te Wairoa Stream to the waterfall trail.
The optional virtual reality experience recreates parts of the pre-eruption landscape, journeys made by early visitors and the volcanic event using topographically informed virtual environments. Visitors can also visit the Smith & Co café, gift shop, visitor information and playground.
What is included with general admission?
Included:
- Entry to the Museum of Te Wairoa.
- Access to the excavated archaeological sites.
- Access to the outdoor stream and heritage trails.
- Access to the Te Wairoa Falls Trail, subject to personal mobility and conditions.
- Access to the café, gift shop and visitor facilities; purchases are additional.
Additional experiences:
- The VR experience is an optional paid add-on.
Awards & certifications
Buried Village of Te Wairoa has Qualmark Gold accreditation (opens in new window) - a best-in-class sustainable tourism business in New Zealand, delivering exceptional customer experiences, as an integral part of everything they do.
Ratings & reviews
Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 1150 reviews on TripAdvisor (opens in new window)
TripAdvisor Reviews:
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Paradise – Rated 5 out of 5 (opens in new window) By Candy C (opens in new window). Visited Oct 2026 “This was a lovely spot to visit. Fascinating history & beautiful grounds & waterfalls.” |
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Great experience – Rated 5 out of 5 (opens in new window) By Cathy C(opens in new window) from Melbourne, Australia. Visited August 2026. Traveled as a couple. "What an interesting history that the buried villiage tells us about. A good price for the experience. It took us about an hour to go through the history and walk the grounds. Being August, it was quiet, but it was a lovely educational experience that was enjoyed by us both." |
See all reviews for Buried Village of Te Wairoa on TripAdvisor(opens in new window).
Who is this experience suited for?
- Solo travellers
- Couples
- Friends
- Families
- Groups
Ideal for visitors seeking a relaxed cultural experience, including history enthusiasts, heritage travellers, families and those interested in New Zealand's volcanic landscapes and Māori history.
Maximum Group Size: Flexible
Suitable for independent travellers, families, school visits, tour groups and coach groups. Guided experiences may be available for groups by prior arrangement.
Fitness & mobility requirements
Fitness level required: Low to Moderate
Most visitors can comfortably explore the museum and archaeological sites. The optional waterfall trail includes steep stairs and uneven surfaces.
Age requirements
Minimum age: None
Suitable for all ages. Families can enjoy children's activities, open outdoor spaces and visitor facilities.
How long is it?
Experience duration: 1-2 hours
Start and end times: 10am - 4pm, Wednesday - Sunday. Last entry 3.45pm
Allow approximately 1.5 – 2 hours if you want to read the museum interpretation, explore the archaeological remains without rushing and complete the falls walk.
Itinerary
- Arrive and check in
- Explore the Museum of Te Wairoa
- Optional VR experience
- Walk through archaeological excavations
- Follow the Te Wairoa Stream trail
- Visit Te Wairoa Falls or Valley Lookout
- Relax at the café or gift shop
Pricing
| Experience | Price |
| Adult | $23–$45 |
| Child aged 12 or under | $5 |
| Young person aged 13–18 | $10 |
| Senior aged over 65 | $23 |
| Virtual reality add-on | $15 |
Prices are in NZ Dollars (NZD).
Booking and availability
- Web: https://www.buriedvillage.co.nz/
- Phone: +64 7 362 8287
- Email: discover@buriedvillage.co.nz
Booking required:
No. Online advance booking is available
Typical lead time required to book:
Varies. Book ahead to secure your spot.
