By Alan Gallop.

Drawing on original material from archives in both Britain and New Zealand this story recounts how skilled Maori craftsmen carved and construted this whare nui (meeting house) at Te Wairoa in the Hot Lakes Region of New Zealand's North Island, close to the spectacular Pink and White Terraces keenly sought out by intrepid Victorian tourists as the eighth wonder of the world. A wonder that was lost on a night in June 1986 when Mt Tarawera erupted without warning killing over 100 people. Only Hinemihi was strong enough to withstand that rain of fire and stones saving those who sought shelter within. 

The story goes on to tell how Hinemihi came to be purchased for 50 pounds by Lord Onslow and shipped to his estate at Clandon Park in Surrey where it has stood for over 100 years, a symbol of unity between Maori and Europeans.

This book has recently gone out of print, although used copies can usually be found through www.amazon.co.uk.  The shop at Clandon Park currently has a small quantity in stock - but they are selling fast. 

A new, revised and updated edition of the book will be available once Hinemihi's restoration is complete. 

For further information contact the author at alan@alangallop.co.uk.