Rotorua is another must to see in New Zealand’s North island. It is known for its geothermal activity, and features geysers and hot mud pools. We had two nights there and we wished we had more. So much to see! Not only to see but also to smell!
Rotorua has the nickname Sulphur City, because of the hydrogen sulfide emissions, which gives Rotorua a “rotten eggs” smell, as well as rotten-rua combining its legitimate name and the rotten smell prevalent. Still, we enjoyed the smell.
We lived in a walking distance from Te Puia that has some 500 pools, most of which are alkaline chloride hot springs, and at least 65 geyser vents, each with their own name. Seven geysers are currently active.
On a way home, again, I enjoyed the trees:
The same evening we visited Tamaki maori village
We spent the entire evening in the village, learning about Maori traditions and culture, enjoying hangi (the feast) and performance that was actually a little scary.
The other wonderland close to Rotorua was Wai-o-Tapu or sacred waters. Due to dramatic geothermal conditions beneath the earth, the area has many colorful hot springs, Lady Knox Geyser, Champagne Pool, Artist’s Palette, Primrose Terrace and boiling mud pools:
And more boiling mud pools:
Enjoy! Enough for today, to be continued tomorrow.
Amazing!
Very interesting, I especially liked the fern trees and the palm looking ones. I can’t brlieve how beautiful and lush the plants are.