Mt Tarawera in eruption

Ina Haszard was a renowned New Zealand artist. On the day of the infamous eruption of Mount Tarawera — June 10, 1886 — Ina was living in the small settlement of Te Wairoa. Sadly, the settlement was destroyed by the eruption. This painting, therefore, represents the personal memories of the artist and her sister Clara. The two of them, along with their mother, were fortunate enough to survive. At the time, Ina was only 16 or 17 years old.

The painting conveys not only a profound sorrow, reflected in its mood and colors, but also serves as an important historical record — a visual remembrance of the events that forever changed the lives of many residents.