Floating on a raft through these enormous caverns lit only by the eerie green light of thousands upon thousands of glow worms was a mystical ride. In Rotorua we learned a great deal about the Maori culture. In fact, legend has it that it was by following the migrating Green Sea Turtles that these Islanders originally discovered Hawaii. The Maori village of Rotorua is an ancient place where a tribe settled amongst its thermally active hot springs and geysers. Every facet of life here revolves around the hot pools.
Food is cooked by the steam and heat.
Laundry is done using the hotter pools, and baths enjoyed by mixing in some the cool water from the river. When you witness the many aspects of life that are made possible by the springs it is no surprise that thousands of years ago the Maori decided to settle here. Back then, and still today, a warm mineral bath to soak in is a unique luxury. The Maori culture is simply fascinating. We even learned the Haka.