We set out on what is widely known as New Zealand's best one day walk with our friends Laura and Ben. The walk takes hikers along a 18km track between two volcanoes, past brightly coloured lakes, and several craters.
Starting out
The first part of the walk involved a climb through volcanic lava flows.
Laura and Hannah negotiating the first climb
Once at the first saddle, Gareth and Ben decided to make the 3 hour side trip to climb Mt Ngauruhoe.
This involves a 45 degree climb up volcanic ash and rock (scoria) and slipping and sliding in the sand like texture. It was hard work and each step felt like one forward and two back.
Nevertheless, the effort was worth it with a number of amazing views.
View from the top
Bright red crater rim
G next to the crater
The girls stayed at the bottom and recharged their batteries ready for the remaining 10km of the walk, which provided lots of brightly coloured views of the volcanic plateau we were walking through.
View of Mt Ngauruhoe
Laura and Ben at the Red Crater
At the emerald lakes
At the end. Phew!
The next day Gareth and Ben hit the mountain bike park, whilst Laura and Hannah did some exploring in Taupo.
Aratiatia rapids before the dam opens
Rapids after the dam opens!
Hannah at the Huka Falls
1 comment:
The Huka Falls don't look real! Can we go there next time?! Fantastic pics guys. Miss you blth, Ally XXX
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