Wairakei

Rotorua Morning Post, Volume 2, Issue 298, 11 August 1932, Page 8

Wairakei

The one day Wairakei trip commands special attention because of the wide variety of sights included in the tour. The journey there and back eovers 120 miles, but is made under conditions of comfort that render fatigue im])ossible. The first fifteen miles have already been covered on the Round Trip; thence the car strikes into the very centre of the Thermal Regions, and traverses country that bears every mark of frequent and violent volcanic action. Rainbow Mountain derives its name from the irridescence of colour in stone and sand that decorates its slopes, over 100 tints having been distinguished. The vicinity of Rainbow Mountain is very active, the region meriting special notice because here the earth's crust is perilously weak and thin, scientists contending that the earth's internal fires approach within near distance of the surface. These conditions prevail over the wide extent of the Reporoa Plains, arid although not spectacular, are potentially dangerous. The first important sight to be gained as the car enters the Taupo district is the Aratiatia cataract, a whirling, foaming rush of water which exemplifies not only majesty, but strength. Nothing can resist a torrent of such magnitude, which the tourist views in perfect safety from a rock platforrn pitched in the very centre of the rapids, the water crashing and roaring at his feet. The Huka Falls have been described as the prettiest sight in the North Island; the rush of water along the rock chasm as it approaches the falls, furnishing a thrilling spectacle. The Waikato River, perhaps the most ancient in the world, flows through a gorge hollowed out in the course of ages to' an actual depth in parts of 150 feet. Across Lake Taupo on a clear day the three mountain ranges, snow-cov-ered and of dazzling whiteness, stand silhouetted against a background of deepest blue. The mountains comprise the National Park, and include the three famous summits of Tongariro, Ruapehu, and Ngauruhoe. The last-named, Ngauruhoe, is in frequent eruption, the cumulous black cloud of smoke standing in sharp contrast to the mantle of snow beneath. The immensity of Lake Taupo can only be appreciated by a visit to its shores. It receives as tributaries the waters of twenty-six rivers, the Waikato River being the only outlet. The Geyser Valley contains an impressive display of thermal activity. Included in the sights are Champagne Pool in violet agitation with intense heat, the Dragon's Mouth, the Eagle's Nest, Pink Terrace, fairy pools in every hue, and geysers which play strictly to timetable. The diversity of sights and experiences on this trip gives it premier place among the world's great tourist attracti»ns.