In the afternoon we visited the Waimangu Thermal Valley. We hiked through several miles of lush greenery and steaming lakes and rivers. To the left you see Cathedral Rock. The sulfur and minerals in the water left unique colors and mineral terrace formations along the Hot Water Creek, shown below.

"Yes, the water is hot!"

In the evening we learned more about the Maori culture by attending a traditional Maori feast known as a hangi. Tamaki Tours hosts the hangi in reconstructed village area and meeting house. We were welcomed into the village according to custom, and were able to view scenes from village life, including a stick throwing game seen below.

Then we were called to the meeting house, where we were entertained with Maori song, dance, and games, along with an introduction to their tools, weapons, and culture.

The Maori warrior shows fierce expressions when facing his enemy, often sticking out his tongue (which can be frequently seen carved onto Maori statues). After the entertainment, we had a delicious Maori feast, cooked in an underground steam oven. The food had a smoky flavor, and included lamb, chicken, seafood, kumara (sweet potato), and a steamed gingerbread cake.