WAIRAKEI

Rotorua Morning Post, Volume 2, Issue 535, 19 May 1933, Page 12

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 covers 120 miles, but is made under conditions of comfort that render fatigue impossible. 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 first important . sight to be gained as the car enters the Taupo district is the Arateatea cataract, a whirling, f oaming 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 platform gitched 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 ihe North Island; the rush of water along the rock chasm as I it anproaches the falls, furnishing a thrilling speetacle. The Waikato River 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 immensity of Lake Taupo can only- be appre'ciated by a visit to its shores. The Geyser Valley contains an impressive dlsplay 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, friry pools in every hue, and geysers which play strictly to timetable.