Karakia for new lake boat “Sophia” marks new chapter for Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Tūhourangi, Te Puia and Waimangu representatives gathered on Friday 19 June to celebrate a significant milestone and commemorate historic figures during karakia (formal blessings) for lake boat Sophia, before an inaugural sailing on Lake Rotomahana at Waimangu Volcanic Valley.
Te Puia chief executive, Tim Cossar, said the introduction of Sophia enhances the Waimangu experience.
“Sophia is more than a vessel. She’s a connection to the legacy of Guide Sophia and the stories of this whenua, now shared with manuhiri (visitors) in a way that is comfortable, accessible and meaningful year-round.
“From improved comfort to greater access in all conditions, this investment ensures more visitors can connect with the history, landscape and living geology of this remarkable place.”
Previously operated by Totally Tarawera on Lake Tarawera, the Sophia’s journey to her new home was a fitting one, explained Waimangu Volcanic Valley leadership team member and valley manager Richie Morrison.
“The Sophia’s journey to Lake Rotomahana traced the footsteps of her famous namesake 140 years ago. From Lake Tarawera, past Te Wairoa and Te Whakarewarewa, across the whenua of Ngāti Rangitihi, to Onuku, before arriving safely at Lake Rotomahana.”
The legacy of Otukapuarangi and Te Tarata, the Pink and White Terraces, once known as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’, and the story of their guides and reverence live on in the stories and cultural history shared at Waimangu Volcanic Valley.
Tūhourangi Tribal Authority Trustee and Tūhourangi historian, Rangitihi Pene, shared cultural stories, complementing the rich ecological and historic narratives preserved within the Waimangu Volcanic Valley experience.
“First Guide Sophia would take touring parties to Te Tarata, the White Terrace. As they climbed, the terrace got warmer and when they reached the top they were treated to a geyser unseen from below. Eventually continuing through the Te Waikana valley to finish with a bath at Otukapuarangi, the Pink Terrace.”
The boat trip is available as part of the Full Waimangu Experience where manuhiri walk through the geothermal valley and then enjoy a 45-minute cruise with culturally informed and historical commentary on the Sophia. The boat significantly improves viewing opportunities, boasting 12-metres in length, two-level and premium outdoor viewing decks, capacity of 60 passengers and four crew, with enclosed seating for 30 people and interior heating.
Morrison told those gathered at the blessing “If you smile when you see her, I guarantee she’ll be smiling back as she welcomes you all to her home.
“The significance of this moment was quite surreal really. I looked at the faces of the wāhine and our pae on the top deck – there wasn’t a lot said – there was a lot of taking it all in,” he reflected.
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