13 June 2011
It was an incredible experience to explore the inner crater of New Zealand's only active marine volcano. It costed us 185 dollars for a 6-hour journey, refreshment, lunch, gas mask, helmet, and permit to step on this private land.
The journey started and ended with a 1.5 hour of cruise. Believe it or not? I had a terrible sea sickness. The entire journey was worth 185 dollars as it is the only active marine volcano in NZ, and not everyone can visit this private land. However, it would be even better if we could understand the description told by the guide. Somehow I still feel it is too expensive.
About 70 percent of the volcano is under the sea, making this massive volcanic structure the largest in New Zealand.
A sulphur mining venture began on the island in 1885; this was stopped abruptly in 1914 when part of the crater wall collapsed and a landslide destroyed the sulphur mine and miners' village; twelve lives were lost. The remains of buildings from that era are now a tourist attraction.
Although privately owned, White Island became a private scenic reserve in 1953, and daily tours allow more than 10,000 people to visit White Island every year. GeoNet monitors volcanic activity and visits the island around 10 times a year.
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