Taranaki, New Zealand
 From
surf to summit
The dramatic, snow-topped volcanic cone of Mount Taranaki
is a spiritual and physical force in this region. The mountain is the
source of over 50 rivers and streams, the home of many botanically unique
plants, and the subject of many stories and legends. On sighting the mountain
in 1642, explorer Abel Tasman said it was “the noblest hill I’ve
ever seen”.
In the Maori language, Taranaki means 'Gliding Peak',
a name that ties to the legend of how the mountain came to its location.
As the story goes, Taranaki once lived with the North Island’s other
great volcanoes (Tongariro, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe) but was banished for
falling in love with Tongariro’s wife, a smaller volcano called
Pihanga.
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| Much
of the filming for The Last Samurai centred on the hillsides
of Okato, which was remodelled slightly to imitate Japanese
rural life in the 1860s. Mount Taranaki, New Zealand’s
most-climbed mountain, turned on a stunning performance
as Mount Fujiyama. |
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Photo
by Fay Looney (www.faylooney.com) |
| Click
on the image for larger version |
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The mountain and the Tasman Sea, provide a natural playground
for travellers who enjoy outdoor adventures. The region is also known
for its creativity and ingenuity - characteristics that materialise as
beautiful gardens, fascinating museums and highly acclaimed art collections.
Key Features
Mount Taranaki.
Taranaki’s famous 2518 metre dormant volcano sits at the centre
of beautiful Egmont National Park. The park offers outstanding hiking,
climbing, skiing and photography opportunities.
The surf highway. The close proximity
of the mountain to the sea is one of Taranaki’s special features.
It takes only 30 minutes to drive from mountain plateau to beach –
making it possible to ski and surf in the same day.
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| The
hongi is a traditional Maori greeting. Noses are pressed
together and the ha, or breath of life, is exchanged
and intermingled. The tradition of sharing the breath
of life is considered to have come directly from the
gods. The hongi is an integral part of the powhiri (welcoming
ceremony). |
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Photo
by James Heremaia (www.jamesfoto.com) |
| Click
on the image for larger version |
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Puke Ariki. An interactive
library, museum and visitor centre, Puke Ariki displays more than 6000
significant Maori taonga (treasures). The centre looks out to Len Lye’s
Wind Wand sculpture on the coastal walkway.
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