The Taupo region of New Zealand is essentially a giant volcano that has exploded 28 times in the last 27,000 years. The last eruption, about 2,000 years ago, was so large that observers in Rome and in China reported that the sky turned red. Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand, was formed out of a caldera from an eruption 26,500 years ago.
Geothermal activity is still easily found in the area.
The air in many places is heavy with sulfur, which gives off a strong odor of rotten eggs. Rachel, how do you feel about the smell of sulfur?
The beaches of Lake Taupo are composed of pumice from past explosions. Pumice is a rock that is filled with air holes, making it so light that it floats.
Black Swans, or “Cygnus Atratus”, which are originally native to Australia and the Tasman Sea area, now swim along the shores of Lake Taupo.
Lake Taupo empties into the Waitahaui River. Not far from the river’s mouth are the dramatic Huka falls, which are so powerful they provide much of the electricity to the town.
The geothermal areas have many plant species that have adapted to survive the hostile mix of heat and acid. Because of these adaptations they can grow only in this environment.
Rotorua is the other well known tourist destination in the area. It reminded us of the Wisconsin Dells: It has some unique geographical features with rides and tourist traps. It also has duck boats.
Of course Rachel’s favorite part of the trip was the McDonalds with an airplane.
For some reason food tastes better when it’s eaten on a plane.
Rachel, Usually airline food is not that good, but McDonald's airplane food has gotta be good!
ReplyDeleteI used to fly that DC-3!
Love, Della