The Volcanic Plateau

We set out from Auckland Monday morning and headed south in our rental car. Driving on the left side of the road was a bit harrowing at first, but after a couple high-stress hours of confusion and a close call or two, I got the handle of it. As we headed south the New Zealand countryside changed from average suburban, to gorgeous lush green countryside (think the Shire), to sweeping, barren mountains. The were a lot of "wow" moments and me continually pestering Vivi to take pictures out the car window.

We passed through Hamilton and reached our first destination, Taupo. Taupo rests on a massive inland lake in the Center of the North Island. It is a town that sees a lot adventure-travelers looking to skydive, bungee jump, and water-sport, but, being part of the volcanic plateau, also has its share of geothermal attractions which was our main purpose. We visited a thermal area deep into the outskirts of town called Orakei Koraki. It sits on private Maori Land and is stunning. You take a boat ride across a River to reach an area filled with hot springs, Sulphur pools, mud pits, silica terraces, and one of only two geothermal caves in the world. We felt like we were in the Lost World (minus the dinosaurs). Pictures hopefully to follow...

Orakei Koraki geothermal area

We ate lunch in Taupo and stocked up on protein bars, water, and "scroggin" (what Kiwis call trail-mix) in preparation for next day's main event: the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

The Volcanic Plateau

Taupo, New Zealand