City of rising steam.....

.....and pools of bubbling mud and water, thermal activity.

Ohinemutu village is home to the Ngati Whakaue tribe, who gifted the land on which the city of Rotorua was built. Ngati Whakaue is a sub-tribe of the Te Arawa waka which journeyed from the Pacific homeland of Hawaiki to New Zealand around 1350AD. The location was chosen for its lakeside setting and abundant geothermal energy, used for cooking, bathing and heating.

Towards the lake's edge is the historic and beautifully decorated St Faith's Church, which was completed in 1914. The exterior is Tudor-style while the interior features traditional Maori carvings and woven panels. A stained glass window at the rear of the church gives the impression of Christ walking on the waters of the lake.

To the side of the church is Te Ao Marama, the church hall.

Today we traveled from Auckland to Rotorua, detouring to Morrinsville, known as the 'Cream of the Country', with its herd of 42 sculptured cows gracing the streets, many shots were taken. Passing through Matamata, hobbit country before lunching at Tirau the town of corrugated iron sculptures. 

Our day was diverse, some culture and history along with quirkiness. The landscape was forever changing, enjoying being in the city of rising steam and bubbling pools of mud, so close to my home town.

Extras:
Sculptured Cows
Corrugated Iron Sculptures -  adore Mrs Pukeko with her long lashes and pearls.
      - Tirau yellow school bus with the number plate '2learn' (tookie you may like this one :)

An awesome way to start the week - Happy Monday everyone :)