Moving off the coast we travelled to Rotorua, a major destination for both domestic and international tourists. It is known for its geothermal activity, featuring geysers and hot mud pools as well as a Maori cultural centre.
Mountain biking through the Whakarewarewa Forest is a major attraction and was listed as one of the top 8 locations globally by Red Bull Magazine in 2012. The forest sports over 100 km of trails some of which can also be hiked. The forest is full of redwoods and the trails are in great shape. It isn’t a rocks and roots ride. All levels of mountain bikes can enjoy the various trail levels of single and double track.
We were fortunate enough to stay with friends in their “batch” on Lake Tarawera outside of town. This area is a quieter setting with camping near the scenic reserve of the lake, batch rentals or you can stay at the Tarawera Lodge. Because we had boat access to the lake we were able to access the hot springs beach across the lake. Hot water bubbles up through the sand allowing you to swim in warm water and enjoy a personal hot tub on the beach just by taking a few nearby rocks and creating a circle to contain the warm water. A ride to the end of the lake brought us to the shores of Mount Tarawera. We found a trail to take us up to the volcanic rim. An eruption in 1886 blew the side of the volcano out destroying the famed Pink and White Terraces. They were recently reported found and intact 60 meters deep and buried under lake sediment. When we were on top of the volcanic ridge looking into that area of the lake we witnessed a steam spout coming from the shores of that area where the terraces were reportedly found..
We were looking for a bit of Maori culture so we booked spot with our friends at the Te Waiora Village centre for a traditional Hangi dinner and cultural performance. A bit touristy but fun, we did learn about Maori cultural traditional and food.
Another day we took a trip to the Te Puia geothermal park. This is a fascinating display of New Zealand most colourful and diverse active geothermal system. Geyser’s, mud pools, and waterfalls are some of the features we witnessed in a park which has not been overly commercialized. I would recommend seeing it of you plan on hiking Tongariro for a real appreciation of what you are hiking on.
And don’t forget to check out the night sky while you are there. The Southern Cross is an amazing sight.
