Halfway through the 19.4 km. long Tongariro Alpine Crossing, arguably New Zealand’s greatest day-long trek, you will pass by these emerald lakes right in the middle of a volcanic landscape where sulphuric steam rises from the earth. It is a rugged and desolate vista surrounded by jagged peaks that look like from an alien world. Hikers slip and slide their way down this steep loose gravel pathway to get to the bottom where there are many boulders that you can sit on and rest your weary legs while enjoying the surrounding 360-degree awesome view.
