Rotorua

 

ROTORUA (TAURANGA), NEW ZEALAND

January 30, 2025

 

Tauranga, nestled on the Bay of Plenty, is watched over by the dramatic Mt. Maunganui, an extinct volcano that helped shape this spectacular region.  The Maori arrived here in the 13th century followed by the British 600 years later.  You can truly immerse yourself in the Maori culture in Rotorua and experience a landscape of bubbling hot springs, mudpools and geysers!!! 



Tauranga is best known as the gateway to the bubbling mud pools and thermal fields of Rotorua.  The local Maori believe this cauldron-like region to be a gift of fire from the gods.  We thoroughly enjoyed a traditional cultural performance featuring a “wero” – a challenge by a Maori warrior to ensure that visitors come in peace – followed by a “powhiri”, or welcome ritual and, of course, the Haka was a rousing performance!!!


After that, we were led down to the thermal fields to view the geysers and mud pools.




It reminded us of our previous visit to this remarkable region almost 25 years ago. Back then, we got a guided fishing trip on the lake, caught several good-sized trout, and cooked them on the steam-powered thermal grill at our motel. Great eating!!



Next stop - Napier, New Zealand and our adventure on the Supertrike!







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