One of the attractions to be seen in New Zealand are its many active geothermal areas. One such area, the Waimangu Volcanic Valley is located about 20 km south of Rotorura. I have to say this place is worth every penny of its admission fee. You can take a guided tour but I suggest you take the self guided tour. Get there early though as you’ll want to catch the last bus that takes you back to the lodge. The walk is largely all down hill so the walk back would be a true workout.
Along the walking path you will be treated a wide range of bubbling, gurgling, and belching geothermic vents all in a range of colors. One of the most spectacular sites is the Inferno Crater. This extinct crater now contains an amazing blue water lake. Fed by hots springs the lake always has a layer of smoke rising from its Caribbean blue surface.
I took a lot of video while at the park but my little laptop is barely up to the task of editing the HD footage. I plan on doing a big edit session once I return home. For now however here are some photos from the Waimangu Volcanic Valley.
