New Zealand - Rotorua

If I could describe Rotorua in a few words it would be rotten eggs. I'm not kidding, the moment you step afoot into Rotorua, your nose instantly cringes from the smell of unpleasant eggs.

However don't let that turn you off! The smell from sulphur gases is quite pungent because of its geothermal location which means mud pools and hot springs are the heart of Rotorua's attraction to locals and tourists.

Te Puia in Rotarua
Image taken from here

Believe it or not these mud pools and hot springs are known to have many benefits such as reducing the pain of arthritis, inflammation as well as reducing skin irritation and is helpful in making your skin supple by removing dead skin cells.

Image taken from here

To get my money's worth I visited the Polynesian Spa, where they provide a broad range of spa services from mineral and adult spas to family friendly pools. Feeling the need to spurge I decided to book the Deluxe Lake Spa.

View of Lake Rotorua from the Deluxe Spa
Image taken from here

Boy did this not disappoint! I could definitely feel the hot mineral water soothing and making my skin much smoother! The best part was in a private room I could view the picturesque view of Lake Rotorua. Luckily I had booked the spa just before sunset so I was able to relax and enjoy the sun gradually moving down the lake.

So if you ever visit this 'Sulphur Town' remember to remind yourself it's from the natural beauty Mother Nature has to offer!

New Zealand - Maori Rock Carvings

Located in Taupo approximately 360 kilometres away from New Zealand’s capital Wellington is the Maori Rock Carvings, a must see for anyone that is interested in learning more about the Maori culture. These carvings are located in the iconic Lake Taupo, so the only way to get there is either a scenic flight, kayaking or scenic cruises.

Full steam ahead! 

I’m not one that boasts athletic strength nor do I have the funds to take a flight so the best option was to travel via scenic cruise! Aboard launch of the Ernest Kemp Cruises I was greeted with a stunning view of Taupo and complimentary shortbread cookies, tea and chocolate milk to keep us warm!

Ngatoroirangi

Tuatara

These rock carvings consist of many individual carvings each with their own meaning. The main face represents Ngatoroirangi, a highly regarded priest that navigated the Maori people to Aotearoa or New Zealand from the origin of Hawaiki. The carvings of Tuatara or lizards serve as protectors of the lake and carvings.

Of course there are more carvings however I think it’s best if you go and see them for yourself to save you all the fun! Another plus side of taking a cruise was the boat was able to get close and personal to the carvings allowing all of us to take close up snapshots.

If you want to get to know more about the rich culture and history of New Zealand, this is an attraction you definitely want to see! 

To know more the Maori Rock Carvings and how to get there click here

New Zealand - Waitomo Caves

Image taken from here

If there is one thing you need to add or cross off your bucket list it’s definitely got to be the Waitomo Caves located in the North Island of New Zealand. This cave boasts the largest number of glow worms and highlights one of the natural wonders this country has to offer. Glow worms or through their scientific name Arachnocampa luminosa are miniature insects that light up when you glide peacefully through the Waitomo grotto.  

Image taken from here

The Waitomo Caves can only be entered by purchasing tickets where a tour guide will explain the history of these glow worms and the ecological significance of them. The last part of the tour is where the magic begins where you will blissfully sail and be mesmerized by the stream of luminescent lights that guide the way to the end of the tunnel!

Unfortunately you do have to follow the condition to remain silent and not take photos, otherwise the noise and flash could potential disrupt their habitat. However overall this destination is a must see for travelers that are curious to explore what New Zealand has to offer!