Mountains, Volcanoes and Islands

Significant in Maori legend are the volcanic peaks of the area including
Mount Edgecumbe (Putauaki), White Island (Whakaari) and Whale Island (Motuhora).

Mount Edgecumbe
Mount Edgecumbe was named by Captain James Cook in October 1769 after Sergeant Edgecombe, a sergeant of marines on the Endeavour. The mountain rises to 820m above sea level and every year a 'King of the Mountain' race is run with proceeds being donated to charity. The mountain's official name was changed back to Putauaki in 1925. Just beside it sits Mount Tarawera, on the right - long and flat in appearance.

White Island
White Island is an active volcano, 48km offshore from Whakatane. The volcanic activity is limited to steam and boiling mud with a new crater appearing after an eruption in July 2000. The large crater created at that time now contains a lake. Sulphur mining was attempted but abandoned in 1914 after a lahar killed all 10 workers. The remains of the buildings can be seen, eroded by sulphuric gases. Main activities on the island now are guided tours and scientific research.

Whale Island
Whale Island is a small uninhabited island about 12km north of Whakatane. The island has numerous sites of pa (Maori fortified villages). It also provided shelter for James Cook's Endeavour in 1769. A whaling station existed on the island during the 19th century. In 1965 it was declared as a wildlife refuge and today is covered with native plantings and grassland.

Our last day in my home town as Mum and I travel tomorrow, back to the mainland as is known in kiwi terms for the South Island. Its been an incredible experience with many memories - I will not be leaving it another 15 years before returning. I've had a wonderful time staying with my dear cousin and her family, lots of laughs and long hours of talking. Many thanks S for having me and making my time so memorable - I'll be back to help with stocktake next year eh!!

Backblips start on 25th May if your interested in following this journey. I will be back to commenting in the next few days :))

PS Might be best in large, just hit the magnifiying glass on the tool bar :)