EKETAHUNA NEWS.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXII, Issue 3086, 7 January 1909, Page 3

EKETAHUNA NEWS.

(From Our Own Correspondent.)

The party (Messrs Herbert, Keardon and Bedding) left the Ruapehu Hutt on Monday morning for Tongariro, following a tourist track via the Oturere crater, the floor of which was one mile across, and was filled with an ancient lava flow. The lava was a very interesting sight, it had solidified into all sorts of fanastic shapes. On the way from here to the top of Tongariro the party left the track and visited the Red Crater, which was active. Some very pretty views were obtained here of lake scenery, etc. An excellent view was obtained of Lakes Roto lara, Taupo, and the magnificent scenic country northwards from the top of the mountain. The party then descended the opposite side of the mountain to the Ketatahi Hot Springs where the party partook of luncheon by the way. After the party had had breakfast they felt satisfied, and decided that so much lunch was sufficient to carry, needless to say they finished lunch very hungry. The party decided to have a dip, which was very pleasant, and in the enjoyment the party forgot to note the altered weather conditions. No sooner had they commenced to dress than hail fell—and the genuine article at that. The survey of the springs was tnerefore very rapid, and the party started back up the mountain for the camp. On reaching the top a severe snowstorm was encountered, which was very unpleasant. The party took shelter till the snowstorm passed, and then a start was made to view the famous Blue Lake. In exploring the border of the lake the party came upon a lonely Landrail, which bird is becoming very rare. A start was made for the, camp, which was reached at 7 p.m. On Tuesday morning the weather was wet, and His Worship ; again distinguished himself at cooking.