Taranaki Falls, Tongariro National Park

Looks fantastic?

Haha, this is not Taranaki Falls.

Another beautiful day at Tongariro National Park. We were a bit reluctant to go for the Taranaki Falls track near Whakapapa village visitor center since we thought we had the best views yesterday at Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Lucky us we still feel energetic and walk this short track of 2 hrs.

 That is the one!!!!!!!! It is just breathless...

Taranaki Falls

It was a short walk with amazing views! A must go around the village. Really great views of the Mt Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and can even see Mt Taranaki as we walk towards the waterfall. And the waterfall is really cool, splashing 25metres into a pool.

Mt Ngauruhoe (Mt Doom)...

Mt Ruapehu

After that walk, we drive up the Bruce road to Whakapapa ski base. From here, there's a chairlift that takes people up to the highest cafe in NZ, at altitude of 2020metres for $30 return. Then from up there, people can hike up Mt Ruapehu to see the Crater Lake... But the walk is close because there is risk of volcanic hazards. ....... Anyhow we went for a 30min walk Meads Wall Walk, starting just beside the chairlift. Also a must walk! Stunning cliffs and overview of the valley. And scary looking molten rocks.. This is also the filming location of Lord of the Rings.

The far far away Mt Taranaki.. or Mount Fuji lookalike..? =)

Mt Doom again...

Something interesting while we are taking our time exploring the volcanic rocks, a photographer is taking picture of a lady, interesting cause she's half nude.. Imagine yourself taking such artistic pictures high up the cliff with Mt Doom as background, cooling.... 

Can't believe we are leaving Tongariro so soon.. It is so so beautiful, on a sunny day like this!

One of our fav veges in NZ, the green stuff: KamoKamo, taste like zucchini..