Crater Hill, Dormant volcano in Auckland Region, New Zealand
Crater Hill is a dormant volcano in Auckland Region with a crater rising 110 meters above sea level and spanning about 600 meters wide. The structure displays a partially water-filled basin surrounded by remnants of the original basalt crust.
The volcano formed during an eruption sequence when lava rose into the explosion crater and created a lake that later solidified into a basalt crust. This formation took place thousands of years ago and permanently shaped the region's geological landscape.
This site holds deep spiritual meaning in Māori culture, connected to creation stories and divine presence in the landscape. Visitors sense this significance through the way the land was shaped and its ongoing importance to local communities.
The hill is accessible to visitors, and two historic lava caves named Selfs and Underground Press can be explored on the southern side beneath the basalt crust. Sturdy footwear and cautious movement are recommended, as the terrain is uneven and caves have limited lighting.
As molten lava cooled and contracted, an island formed in the center of the crater lake, with basalt remnants marking where the water level once reached. These traces tell the story of gradual solidification and offer visitors a visible link to the volcanic past.
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