Rotorua tourist attraction Te Puia has taken a 50% share of Waimangu Volcanic Valley and will manage day-to-day operations at the site south of the city.
The valley was created by the 1886 Tarawera eruption and is now an “ecotourism experience featuring spectacular volcanic craters, enormous hot water springs, beautifulgeothermal features, rare plant life, brilliantly coloured microbiology and a wide array of birds”, its website says.
The valley runs down to Lake Rotomahana, formerly home to the “eighth natural wonder of the world” – the Pink and White Terraces, which were buried in the eruption.
A karakia was held at Waimangu Volcanic Valley on Monday by representatives from Tūhourangi Tribal Authority and Te Puia NZMACI Limited Partnership, each of which now holds 50% in the business.
A karakia was held at the valley on Monday by representatives from Tūhourangi Tribal Authority (TTA) and Te Puia New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute Limited Partnership, each of which now holds 50% in the business after Te Mana o Ngati Rangitihi Ltd sold its shares.
In a statement, Te Puia said it had taken on management of day-to-day operations, “further strengthening a close working relationship that has been built over the past eight years”.
“The new management agreement brings both organisations into even closer alignment, supporting a unified vision for the future of the business,” Te Puia said.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley runs down to Lake Rotomahana. Photo/ File
Speakers at Monday’s event, which also launched the valley’s two new vessels on Lake Rotomahana, paid tribute to the legacy of leaders who helped shape Waimangu, including the late former owner, Harvey James, and former directors Harena Warbrick, Alan Skipwith and the late George Hickton.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley Board chairman Deryck Shaw said the day signalled an exciting new era.
“These new vessels and upgraded facilities are designed to enhance the visitor experience, positioning Waimangu to continue delivering outstanding experiences for both international and domestic manuhiri (visitors).”
Waimangu Volcanic Valley launched its two new vessels on Lake Rotomahana this week.
Shaw also acknowledged the significant investment made by the Tūhourangi/Ngāti Rangitihi Joint Administering Body, which owns and administers the whenua (land).
Recent developments included major sustainability improvements, such as new septic and bathroom facilities in the valley.
