The seething power of inner earth comes to the surface in Rotorua. Nearby is Lake Taupo, a great lake and an even greater choice of adventures in the heart of the North Island. The powerful beauty of the volcanic landscape provides a dramatic backdrop.

Rotorua is one of the original tourist destinations in New Zealand - it has been welcoming visitors for more than 200 years. From the moment people arrive in Rotorua they know they're somewhere quite different. There is a scent of sulphur in the air. At nearby geothermal hotspots, there are spouting geysers, boiling mud pools and warm geothermal springs. Silica terraces are naturally decorated with a kaleidoscope of colours.

Rotorua is fast becoming known as Nature's Spa of the South Pacific. After a hard day's sightseeing or strenuous activity, visitors can relax with a soak in the healing waters of the geothermal hot springs, or totally unwind by choosing from a selection of therapeutic spa and massage therapies.

Lake Taupo is a great vacation destination in both summer and winter. Trout fishing is a major attraction - it’s now over 100 years since the first trout fry were released into the lake and today it is one of the last true wild trout fisheries in the world. Skiing and adventure activities are other reasons to visit. The Taupo town centre crammed with cafes and interesting shops.

The nearby Huka Falls area is great for picnics and nature walks - or take a thrilling jet boat ride right to the foot of the thundering water.

A few minutes south of the Lake is Tongariro National Park, New Zealand's first national park and a World Heritage area. It was created in 1887 when its three magnificent volcanoes, Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe, were gifted to the people of New Zealand by the Ngati Tuwharetoa people. On the western side of the Lake, the Pureora Forest Park is home to such rare creations as the shy kaka or bush parrot and the not-so-shy fluorescent blue mushroom.

There is a range of quality accommodation available in the area. The Rotorua and Lake Taupo region has some of New Zealand’s finest untouched, unspoilt, uncrowded country. Just about all of it is easy to get to.