Within the Volcano – White Island – Feb. 10, 2007

Jonathan got up early today to shoot a few pics on the beach, hoping to get a shot of Whale Island at sunrise. At 8am we got the call from White Island Tours that we were indeed going out today! Sweet!

We packed up and were on board at 9:30 for the 1-1/2 hour ride to White Island–we both took dramamine this time

White Island is New Zealand’s only active marine volcano, and we set foot on it! Craters were billowing out sulphuric gases, and we kept our fingers crossed that she wouldn’t blow while we were on the island (last eruption was July 2000). Of course, we were protected with a sturdy plastic safety helmet and a gas mask, and were briefed on what to do in case of the worst (which was mostly duck and keep your fingers crossed).

We saw a steaming lake within the crater, bubbling mud, and an otherworldly landscape. It was truly an experience of a lifetime. The trip back brought us a little rain, but soon we were on dry land and headed to Rotorua for the night (where, interestingly enough, it always smells like sulphur…so we can eat all the onions and broccoli we want and not offend anyone

~ by jboehman on February 10, 2007.