THE NEW WONDERLAND.

Kumara Times, Issue 3052, 14 August 1886, Page 3

THE NEW WONDERLAND.

A special reporter for the New Zealand Herald, who has traversed the whole of the district lately the scene of the terrible volcanic eruption, gives the following description of the new .Wonderland in the Waiotapu Valley Lake district. If the eruption destroyed objects of great beauty in the terraces, it has certainly developed many new wonders which must be most attractive to sight-seers. He telegraphs : In the Waiotapu Valley, which lies between two giant peaks (Maungaongaonga, which is nearly 3000 feet high, and Maungakakaramea, a most remarkable mountain) there is a new Wonderland, rich in tbe most marvellous creations of a mysterious nature, and hitherto unexplored by tourists. There are hundreds of fumaroles, hot springs, steam holes, lakes of the most lovely lints—from rich green to deep blue—natural baths clear as crystal, and miniature terraces of great beauty, although falling far shoit of the matchless charms of the Pink and White Terraces. It is impossible in a brief telegram to give any adequate description of the wonders of Waiotapu. I must reserve that for another occasion. At present there are no tracks in this new Wonderland, and traveling is consequently somewhat difficult; but I believe it is the intention of the Government to construct a good track through the valley, the whole of which ought certainly to be procured for the use of the public. When properly opened out, the region will, beyond question, become the chief attraction of the Lake district. At present, however, the volcanoes are the great sight, and will long continue to be so to the scientist and the mere sightseer. They are objects which are unique in the world.