Year 12 Tongariro Trip

In April, the Year 13 Geography class went on the annual trip to Tongariro. The first day started well, with the group setting off for lunch in Taihape. After a good rest, the group travelled to the first data collection site. Here the students' skills were tested, collecting both vegetation and soil data, and soon after they were bound for Mt Ruapehu. Here the group went out to explore the Lord of the Rings setting of Mead's Wall and then settle into the lodge for a good night's rest.

Day two started off with a layer of mist creeping up Mt Ruapehu. The day will be remembered for the sheer amount of rain that fell during the morning! With the Tongariro walk looking unlikely, the group set off to Taranaki Falls with a few stops for data collection. This was followed by a trip to the Takaanu hot pools where the group spent a luxurious few hours soaking in the geothermal pools.

The last day - of course - was bright and sunny. The group spent a few more hours collecting data before packing up the vans and departing for home. By the time the group arrived back, the rain of the previous day was a distant memory, but all were pleased to have a decent shower nonetheless.