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FACING THE RING OF FIRE
New Zealand sits at the southern tip of the Pacific 'Rim of Fire'. Exploding landscapes have shaped the country and left a legacy of spectacular landforms and exceptional creatures.
VOLCANOES EVERYWHERE
It comes as little surprise that Peter Jackson found the ideal setting for his 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy. The North Island has several active volcanoes and both main islands are dotted with volcanic vents and hot springs.
LIVING WITH THE LAND, HANMER SPRINGS
Instead of fearing the forces still shaping this land, New Zealanders have embraced them. Ancient myths place the volcano at the very centre of life in these islands, with uses as diverse as cooking and health cures.
VOLCANIC ATTITUDES
To New Zealanders, the ever changing volcanic nature of their home lends spice to life rather than terror. The volcanic peak of Mount Ruapehu is also one of New Zealand's most popular ski resorts.

 

Explosions of molten rock, surging lava flows, racing fires, and clouds of ash. Stark images evoked by the word 'volcano'.

Yet a New Zealander is just as likely to think of exhilarating skiing, an endurance run through a huge crater, or simply the great views over the city from the grassy mound they climb on their morning jog.

Volcanic rock
Emerald Lakes, Tongariro National Park - click for more.
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Bubbling geothermal mud, Rotorua - click for more.
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Mt Taranaki and the Central Plateau mountains. - click for more.
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From the dawn of time, volcanoes have shaped the islands of New Zealand. They continue to shape it to this day. In a land shaped by fire, New Zealanders have come to regard volcanoes as a national treasure, and an inspiration - as much a vital part of a uniquely New Zealand way of life as they are a fiery force in its landscape.

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NEW ZEALAND
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