Wairakei

Rotorua Morning Post, Volume 2, Issue 314, 30 August 1932, Page 8

Wairakei

Tho one day Wairakei trip commands special attention because of tho wide variety of sights included in the tour. The journey there and back covers 120 miles, but is made under conditions of comfort that render fatigue irapossible. The first fifteen miles have already been covered on tho Round Trip; thence the car strilces 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. Tho 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 tho wide extent of the Reporoa Plains, and although not spectacular, are potentially dangerous. The first important siglxt to be gained as the car enters tho Taupo district is the Aratiatia cataract, a whirling, foaming rush of water which exemplifies not only majesty, but strength. Notliing can resist a torrent of such magnitude, which the tourist views in perfeet safety from a rock platform pitched in the very centre of tho rapids, tho 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, fiows 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 tho National Parlc, 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 impressivo dlsplay of thermal activity. Included in the sights are Champagno Pool in violet ag'itation with intense heat, tho Dragon's Mouth, the Eaglo'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 g'ives it premier place among the world's great tourist attractions.