Extending along the east coast of the North Island, from Waihi Beach to Whakatane, the coastal Bay of Plenty is one of New Zealand's most picturesque and popular destinations.
Ten volcanic islands can be seen dotting the horizon in the Bay of Plenty. One of the most stunning highlights of these
islands, is without doubt, the volcano Te Puia o Whakaari (White Island) - meaning fittingly The Dramatic Volcano. Lying 50kms off the coast of Whakatane it is one of the world's most accessible and breathtaking marine volcanoes.
The island was named White Island by Captain Cook on the 1st October 1769 as that was how it always appeared to them whilst they sailed through the Bay of Plenty. Had he ventured closer he would have realised it was a Volcano as did Reverand Henry Williams on 1st December 1826.
White Island has an A grade level of scientific importance and as New Zealand's only live marine volcano, scientists and volcanologists worldwide are attracted by its unique features. The volcano is estimated to be between 100,000 and 200,000 years old.
Walking on White Island is like walking on the moon, virtually no vegetation survives the harsh acidic environment inside the crater walls. Instead, lush beds of yellow and white sulphur crystals grow amongst hissing, steaming, bubbling fumaroles.
Attempts were made in the early 1900s to mine sulphur from the island but the last of these were stopped in September 1914, when part of the crater rim collapsed, creating a lahar which killed all 10 workers. They disappeared without trace and only the camp cat, named Peter the Great, survived.
Guided trips to the island by boat depart daily from Whakatane with White Island Tours. Vulcan Helicopters offer passengers an aerial view and a guided walk of the island, with trips departing from Tauranga or Whakatane.
Visit www.bayofplentynz.com for information on activities, accommodation and events in the coastal Bay of Plenty.
