North Island, New Zealand

Rotorua

There are so much geothermal activities in Rotorua, the heartland of Maori culture in New Zealand, the odour of sulphur permeates the air.

It is therefore no surprise that hot spring bath is popular here. After we arrived at Rotorua just after lunch, my ankle was already feeling better. After a short walk, we came across the Polynesian Spa and decided to give it a try. What better thing to do for a "disabled" man like me - no walking required! Cindy later insisted that it was the hot spring bath that cured my ankle. God knows.

Me in a private pool on the left and the Priest Spa overlooking Lake Rotorua on the right.

Seagulls also loved the warm geothermal water by the Lake shore.

Rotorua Museum in the Government Gardens.

Other photos taken at or near the Government Gardens.

Don't ask me what it is. I have no idea.

Last but not least, the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. The Lady Knox Geyser erupts daily at a set time, induced by the addition of soap flakes into the vent to reduce surface tension.