Kia Orana whanau!
I just returned back to Dunedin yesterday from Tokoroa in the North Island. I had such a wonderful experience there. One of my favorite parts of the trip in the North Island was spend in Rotorua. Rotorua is famous full the geothermal hot pools that are on the land of the Whakarewarewa tribe. Half of the land of the the Whakarewarewa tribe was taken over by the Crown government. The land that was stolen from Whakarewarewa has been turned into a busy tourist destination. The land that was left to the tribe remains in pristine condition. The tribe still lives and functions normally on the land. The tribe uses the hot springs for everything. Each spring is reserved for certain activities. Some geothermal mud pools are used to extract minerals and medicinal properties. Other pools are solely used to cook food and special pools (that remain at a moderate heat level) are used for baths.
The photo below shows the outdoor hot pools that are used for bathing! If you look closely, there are light brown carved out lines in the floor. These lines start from a huge hot pool behind and water flows from the large spring to the carved out tubs. the brown color on the lines leading to the tub are from the minerals in the water! The water felt so soothing and when I took my hands out of the tub, it felt like I rubbed lotion all over them. The water was certainly therapeutic!
This photo is from one the the streets on the Whakarewarewa tribal land. I was able to visit some of the families in the village. In the photo above, you can see steam coming from behind the blue house. People who live in Rotorua are blessed to have these hot pools because in winter, these hot pools are needed! 
Since I joined Kapa Haka (Maori dance group) here in Otago, I’ve been working on my maori Pukana (bulging of the eyes to warm enemies). There was also a kapa haka group that performed for my family and I in Rotorua. A special moment for me was when they asked me to come up and perform with them!
I have fallen in absolute love with New Zealand. This study abroad has allowed me to learn so much about where my roots are. Until next time, Kia kaha!