Volcanic high

Mt Ruapehu, free from its winter blanket of snow, reveals the power of a volcano.

Chairlifts run to the Knoll Ridge Chalet where you can have lunch before taking a guided walk to the crater lake.

The daily six-hour trip costs $45 for adults, $20 for children or $95 for a family.

Contact: Whakapapa Ski Area, ph (07) 892 3738 or visit Whakapapa online