Mokoia
A sacred island in a lake, Mokoia is a green lava dome rising 180 m above the still waters of Lake Roturua in the heart of North Island. Stepping ashore, its deeply spiritual nature seems to reverberate through the air. This natural sanctuary for wildlife belongs to the Te Arawa people and was once known as Te Motu Tapu a Tinirau – the Sacred Island of Tinirau. Isolated for hundred of years, it holds unique kumera (sweet potato) plantation, which meant it was once hotly contested by warring tribes. Photo by: sam&onny
It is said that Makoia was home to Tutanekai, a young warrior. The shores of Mokoia hold geothermal springs and Roturua is New Zealand‘s most dynamic thermal area – with geysers, hot springs and bubbling mud pools. The area is also the epicenter of Maori culture, with one-third of its residents being Maori. ‘ Sulphur City’ as it is known is a much – favoured spot tourists and backpackers; so to find more spiritual solace, cruise out to the hidden island of Mokoia. Photo by: marsh.hayley
When to go: Best to avoid the really busy summer months of December and January. Population: Uninhabited. Photo by: marsh.hayley
