Climbing Mount Doom (almost)

The Tongariro Crossing is considered by many to be one of the most unique hikes in the world. The nearly twenty kilometre hike has incredible climbs, desolate scenery, and lots of loose rock to challenge your ankles. The three volcanic peaks of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro are the highlights of the hike but the barren landscape surrounding these mountains as well as the Emerald Lakes are just as captivating. Due to the volcanic activity emitting from Tongariro (it was eerie watching the steam coming off of the crater), nobody can go beyond the Emerald Lakes which is the halfway point. So instead of a crossing, it is a return trip down the same hills you just finished scaling. I saw people of all ages slowly working their way up the steep slopes including some very young pre teens and some very agile seniors. I didn't have time to scale 'Mount Doom' (Ngauruhoe) since it was an additional three hour hike but maybe next time.

Lake Taupo is the largest lake in New Zealand and lies in a caldera created by numerous volcanic eruptions. One of the largest was around 180 AD when the skies went red as far away as Rome and China. The lake water is warmed by ongoing thermal activity. We took in a Maori cultural evening near the city of Taupo which was very informative. The Maori are a very proud people who want to ensure that their culture doesn't disappear. They have suffered greatly as all aboriginal people have everywhere in the world but seem to have been able to maintain more of their identity and pride than most. There are more Maori involved in all areas of New Zealand life than native people in Canada. There has been a renewed interest in passing on their language and customs to the next generation. One of the highlights of our time in New Zealand has been connecting with Kiwis (New Zealanders call themselves this) from many different backgrounds. The one thing they share is a desire to make New Zealand a prosperous and fair, multicultural country.

After spending a few days in Taupo in the heart of the north island, we drove down to the New Zealand capital city of Wellington. We found ourselves pleasantly surprised at how vibrant and beautiful this hilly coastal city is. Wellington has many Victorian homes, cafes, steep streets, and endless coastline. The Te Papa Museum (Australia's National Museum) was very informative and had lots of hands on exhibits. One of the most fascinating dealt with all the invasive species that arrived in New Zealand and destroyed the local wildlife. New Zealand's history is full of examples of the foolishness of people trying to  'improve' or 'correct' nature. Among the biggest animal culprits are possums and cats.

With the North Island part of our visit completed, it was time to head south on a ferry to the South Island to continue our exploration of this magnificent jewel. (I guess you could say we're in love.)