The House with the Golden Eyes

Drawing on original material form archives in both Britain and New Zealand this story recounts how skilled Maori craftsmen carved and constructed this whare nui at Te Wairoa in the Hot Lakes region of New Zealand's North Island, close to the spectacular Pink and White Terraces. A wonder that it was not lost in June 1886 when Mt. Tarawera erupeted without warning killing over 100 people. Only Hinemihi was strong enough to withstand the rain of fire and stones saving those who sought shelter in it. The story goes on to tell how Hinemihi came to be purchased for £50 by Lord Onslow and shipped to his estate at Clandon Park in Surrey.