North Island NZ Waimangu

January 23 | New Zealand 🇳🇿

Late-night arrival into New Zealand, then straight into geothermal wonderland the next morning. We detoured south toward Taupo to visit Waimangu Volcanic Valley—a landscape created by an 1886 eruption and still very much alive.

Steam rising from colorful mineral pools, a jaw-dropping electric-blue crater lake too acidic for life, dripping mineral “stalactites,” and an incredible soundscape of cicadas, birdsong, and bullfrogs that sounded like cattle. Black swans cruised the lake with their babies, and Australasian swamp hens strutted around like they owned the place.

Finished the day soaking in hot springs at Taupo Thermal Lodge and dinner at a lively local favorite. What an introduction to New Zealand 🌋🦢Read more