Te Tātua a Riukiuta, Volcanic peak in Three Kings, New Zealand

Te Tātua a Riukiuta is the last remaining peak of what was once a larger volcanic complex with multiple craters in the Three Kings area. It rises about 138 meters above the surrounding landscape.

The volcano erupted around 28,500 years ago, leaving behind an explosion crater spanning 800 meters across. This eruption shaped the landscape and created the geological features visible today.

The mountain serves as a Tūpuna Maunga for local Māori tribes, a place holding deep ancestral meaning. Its name honors Riukiuta, a revered priest from ancient times.

Access is from residential streets in Three Kings, including Duke Street and Conolly Street, with formed tracks climbing to the 133 m summit. The summit reservoir is an emergency supply only and is not open to visitors. The surrounding quarry is an active industrial site, so walkers should stay on the marked tracks.

Most of the lava tunnels have collapsed, but surviving sections form caves that can only be reached from private properties in the area. Rain falling on the maunga drains underground for miles before emerging at Western Springs Te Wai Ōrea Lake.