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Te Tātua o Mataaho, an early name for Three Kings, referred to Mataaho, a Māori deity known for guarding secrets hidden in the earth. The name Te Tātua a Riukiuta refers to Riukiuta, a tohunga (priest) of the Tainui waka / canoe.
This volcanic cone was previously a pā and still retains kumara pits and terracing.
The maunga of Te Tātua a Riukiuta / Big King is actually one of three large adjoining volcanic cones that once stood here, hence the name of the suburb, Three Kings. Two of the scoria cones have been quarried completely away.
The highest point of Te Tātua a Riukiuta stands at 133 metres, offering scenic views of the city. The Three Kings volcanoes erupted around 28,500 years ago, creating the largest crater in Auckland which no longer exists today.
Ash from Te Tātua a Riukiuta spread as far as Remuera, blanketing up to three metres of ash over Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill. Lava from the volcano flowed out to Western Springs, creating a series of impressive lava caves.
Getting there Te huarahi ki reira
The nearest train station is the Mt Eden Train Station, which is a 30-minute walk from the mountain. If driving, there is a car park at the base of the mountain, accessible from Duke Street.
Local tip He tīwhiri mō te rohe
While you're here, check out the Three Kings Plaza to grab some food and drinks.