Fittingly, the second lake on our two-lake tour of the interior of the North Island, is Rotorua -- which means "second lake" in Maori. This refers to the fact that it's the next largest lake on the North Island after Lake Taupo. The first thing you notice as you approach Rotorua is the underlying aroma of sulfur; the area is the most geothermally active area in New Zealand, and as you drive along you'll see (and smell!) numerous fumeroles in the countryside. The town of 60,000 is known for its hot springs and spas, and there are a lot of geothermal parks in the surrounding area. Rotorua is also the nexus for several Maori villages that offer cultural tours providing insights into the Maori culture.

The opening ceremony and greeting of our tour group at the Tamaki Maori Village. The chief and his warriors demonstrate to visitors that they are fearsome if threatened but generous and welcoming if treated with respect.

In the heart of Rotorua is Kuirau, a park whose lush greenery is interspersed with geothermal vents and springs.

Legend has it that the beautiful maiden Kuirau was kidnapped by a "taniwha", a demon, who dragged her to the bottom of the spring.

In revenge, the gods caused the springs to boil, killing the demon and avenging the loss of the maiden.

The evil taniwha is depicted in a sculpture at the purported site of the abduction of the innocent maiden.

The Whakarewarewa forest abuts Rotorua. One of the joys of being on the North Island is the proliferation of fern trees. Their lovely fronds create beautiful fractal images of the heavens.

In the early 1900's, California redwood trees were introduced in Rotorua in Whakarewarewa as potential lumber sources. Because of the fertile soil and rainfall, they thrived, growing to heights of over 200 feet in 100 years.

Now, the redwoods are a tourist attraction and have been fitted with ecologically safe stairways and bridges allowing visitors to explore the upper reaches of the forest.

Tamaki Maori Village was founded 30 years ago by two brothers as a means of teaching others about the Maori culture.

Through interactive activities with members of the Tamaki whanau (family), visitors learn about aspects of the Maori way of life, including the haka. The haka is both a dance and a challenge.

Dance and song play a large role in Maori culture, expressing cultural stories, societal values, and important history.

The Government Gardens presents another aspect of Rotorua, representing the advent of British rule in the area. The site originally housed several public baths, but has since been turned into a museum and public park.

The Prince's Arch, the entrance to Government Gardens, was built in 1901 to celebrate a visit by British royalty.