Volcano Holy Landscape, Mount Ngauruhoe

This is one of the most famous volcanic landscapes in New Zealand. Mount Ngauruhoe is cone-shaped with a 400-m-diameter crater at the peak. Volcanic activity began more than two million years ago, and it has been active since the 1830s. Every two years, there is vigorous activity, resulting in the formation of secondary volcanic cones in the crater. Local Maoris regard it as a deity and hold ritual ceremonies every year. When the British botanist John C. Bidwill first ascended its summit, the Maoris became very angry, and coincidentally, the volcano erupted for half an hour. In 1887, the Maori donated three volcanoes, including Ngauruhoe, to the government to prevent Europeans from selling them in pieces. In 1894, the New Zealand government officially established the Togariro National Park. The Maoris’ faith saved this treasure, and in return, this volcano has silently dedicated itself to demonstrating its capacity of nature and culture (Fig. 18).

Fig. 18

Landscape of Ngauruhoe Volcano