Conservation Values
MOUNT TARAWERA
Every time we land a visitor on Mount Tarawera, we’re contributing to something far greater than just an unforgettable experience — we’re helping to protect and preserve a sacred maunga.
Mount Tarawera, the site of Aotearoa’s largest eruption in living memory, is not only a geological icon but also a taonga (treasure) of deep cultural and spiritual significance to local iwi (tribe), Ngāti Rangitihi.
As the kaitiaki (guardians) of this maunga, Ngāti Rangitihi’s connection to Tarawera runs deep — a bond built on generations of reverence, care, and stewardship.
Protecting a Sacred Landscape
Today, Mount Tarawera’s care is led by Ruawāhia 2B Trust, which channels the majority of tourism revenue directly into conservation efforts. These efforts are primarily focused on the removal of invasive species, including the fast-spreading wilding pine (Pinus contorta), that threaten the maunga’s natural ecosystems.
*According to the Ministry for Primary Industries, it is estimated that 25% of New Zealand would be covered in unwanted wilding conifers within 30 years if they were left to spread unchecked.*
With vital support from the Department of Conservation, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, and the National Wilding Conifer Control Programme, the trust is restoring the maunga to a pest-free, native-rich environment. These conservation programmes don’t just benefit the land — they also create employment and skills development opportunities for Ngāti Rangitihi youth.
Our Role in Conservation
As proud tourism concessionaires, Volcanic Air is honoured to partner with Ngāti Rangitihi and the Ruawāhia 2B Trust. Our role goes beyond guiding visitors to the summit. Together, we are actively investing in and supporting long-term conservation efforts that align with New Zealand’s predator-free goals and values of sustainable tourism.
This partnership is a living expression of kaitiakitanga — guardianship, responsibility, and care for the land, its stories, and its people.
How You Can Help
Preserving this taonga takes more than good intentions — it requires funding, manpower, and technical expertise. Whether you’re able to contribute financially, offer hands-on assistance, or share specialist knowledge, your support will directly impact the success of this bold conservation journey.
Every contribution, big or small, plays a vital role in helping protect Mount Tarawera for generations to come.
For anyone seeking involvement or interested in assisting this project please email: Ruawahia2b@gmail.com
