Volcanoes & Geothermal Areas

New Zealand lies on the Pacific Rim of Fire – this can have its devastating consequences like the recent Canterbury Earthquakes, but also gives rise to a spooky lunar desert landscape, particularly in the Central North Island. Walk the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, often said to be one of the world’s best wilderness day walks; soak in a hot pool you have dug yourself on Hot Water Beach; visit one of the thermal parks in the Rotorua and Taupo Areas with their multi-coloured pools, bubbling mud (stand back!), mineral terraces and geysers; sit back and relax at one of the many thermal resorts or go for a quiet swim in a hot river just off the beaten track.