Well, not really, but our day in the Waimangu Geothermal Valley felt like the best possible combination of Jurassic Park and Middle Earth.

During our first stop in Tauranga (Celebrity Edge) we opted for a self-guided walking tour, which convinced me that if I could choose a place to live in New Zealand, this would be it. Yes, it makes a strong first impression.

When we returned on the Norwegian Spirit two weeks later, I still felt the same way. This time, we arranged a small group tour to a geothermal valley about one and a half hour drive from the cruise port.

There were many memorable highlights from our time in New Zealand, but this day was extraordinary. Our driver/guide regaled us with stories and information about the area – population, indigenous people, commerce and lifestyles along the way, making the drive pass quickly. Fields of crops, kiwi farms, apple orchards, grazing sheep, timber yards, and vineyards were in constant view.

Our full day tour included a two hour walk through the Waimangu Geothermal Valley, followed by a one hour boat ride on one of the lakes. The boat ride afforded unparalleled views of two very active geysers. A shuttle bus took us back up to the visitor center – a welcome assist since we had already walked over 10k steps, mostly downhill on a gravel path, but many inclines, as well. Once again, Malcolm and I tested our endurance against the youthful legs of the other six participants in our group and managed to not hold them up.

Geothermal activity here is something indescribable, so I will let the photos speak for themselves. Enjoy!

We are currently sitting in a hotel room in Auckland, awaiting news of our delayed departure on the Discovery Princess. If all goes well with the impending cyclone expected to arrive this evening, we should set sail toward LA by Tuesday. Our thoughts are with everyone in the path of the storm. A hurricane, by any name is still a hurricane. To that, we can certainly relate.