Steam vents
Dozens of them.
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Craters of the Moon, Karapiti in Māori, is a geothermal area north of Taupō on New Zealand's North Island, about 5 km from the town centre in a straight line. It is part of the Wairakei field, the largest geothermal field in New Zealand, in the Taupō Volcanic Zone. The name comes from the many hydrothermal eruption craters, some barren and brightly coloured; with the shifting steam vents and the smell of sulphur, the place feels unearthly. The craters are relatively recent, appearing after the Wairakei Power Station was built near the field in the 1950s and lowered the pressure in the hot water below ground. The Department of Conservation manages the site with help from a volunteer trust. White steam rises from dozens of vents among low scrub and ferns, and deep craters with red, yellow and grey walls open between the plants. The scene changes from day to day as new vents form and others collapse. Visitors follow a boardwalk loop among the craters and steam vents, with viewing platforms. Never leave the boardwalk, as the ground is hot and fragile. The site is close to Huka Falls in Taupō.
Dozens of them.
Coloured walls.
A full loop.
Wairakei, north of Taupō, New Zealand
No, the ground is hot and fragile.
Huka Falls.
