Geo thermal energy

New Zealand and especially the North Island have a lot of geothermal activity. This is due to the fact that New Zealand sits on two tectonic plates (the Pacific and the Australian) that are moving quite actively. The North Island and a part of the South Island sit on the Australian plate and the rest of the country sits on the Pacific plate. Because of the constant movement and grinding of these plates there is a lot of geological action. This situation could be potentially be very dangerous as it can cause volcanoes to erupt and earthquakes to happen. But in New Zealand this activity has turned into a real tourist attraction. There are many relaxing hot springs, mud pools and spa retreats were visitors can be pampered and spoiled. Besides, the geothermal activity also provides electricity and heating in some areas. A major geothermal centre is Rotorua, with plenty of mud pools, hot springs and geysers, hence its nickname “Sulphur City”. The Maori used to use the hot springs for cooking and bathing; today there are numerous attractions and activities for the many tourists and residents. Other regions with thermal activity are Turangi and Hammer Springs.