English Literature – Travelogue ☆ A Journey of Contrasts in New Zealand – 1 ☆ Mr. Jagat Singh Bisht ☆

☆ Travelogue – Huka Falls and Lake Taupo: A Journey of Contrasts in New Zealand – 1 ☆ Mr. Jagat Singh Bisht ☆ 

Have you ever stood before nature’s raw power, witnessing torrents of crystalline blue water surging with incredible force, accompanied by a deafening roar that seems to echo through your soul? And then, just a few miles away, found yourself by a tranquil lake so serene that its stillness feels like meditation? Last weekend, I had the privilege of experiencing both these phenomena, and they left me profoundly moved.

This was not my first tryst with the natural wonders of New Zealand. Having spent over a month in this spectacularly beautiful country—my second visit here—I had already fallen for its iconic landscapes. During my first trip, Queenstown’s charm and Milford Sound’s ethereal beauty had set an almost unattainable benchmark for natural splendor. I doubted if any other place could rival those world-renowned destinations. But New Zealand, as always, surprised me.

From Auckland, it’s roughly a three-hour drive to the charming town of Taupo. The journey itself was scenic, with rolling green pastures and glimpses of distant mountains. However, the true marvel awaited us just outside Taupo: Huka Falls. Nothing could have prepared me for the sight that greeted us.

Huka Falls isn’t a conventional waterfall. Instead, it’s an immense torrent of water, funneled through a narrow gorge at astonishing speed, crashing into a frothy white pool below. The sheer force of the water is humbling, its roar almost primal, commanding awe and respect. The vibrant turquoise hue of the river against the lush green surroundings made it look almost surreal. It was nature’s unrestrained power on full display—a reminder of life’s dynamism and unpredictability.

After soaking in the majesty of the falls, we continued to our hotel beside Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand. That evening, as the sun dipped low, the lake transformed into a mirror, reflecting hues of gold and pink. The contrast with Huka Falls couldn’t have been more striking. The next morning, a leisurely walk along the lake’s edge deepened my appreciation for its tranquility. The still waters, dotted with ducks and seagulls, seemed to emanate a quiet wisdom. We paused at Two Mile Bay Sailing Club, savoring rich, authentic coffee as we watched the world wake up. It was a moment of pure peace—a slice of heaven on earth.

Breakfast at a nearby vegan café rounded off the morning, but the pull of Huka Falls was irresistible. We returned before heading back, mesmerized once more by its unbridled energy. Watching the water surge and swirl, I reflected on how it symbolized joy in motion—life at its most vibrant and free.

As we drove back, a thought lingered in my mind. Life, I realized, is a dance between contrasts. It’s about finding harmony between the strong, rushing currents of Huka Falls and the calm, reflective depths of Lake Taupo. Both are beautiful, both essential, and together, they create a profound balance.

New Zealand’s landscapes have a way of leaving you with more than just memories—they offer lessons. For me, this journey was a reminder to embrace both the storms and stillness that life offers, for each holds its own unique beauty.

© Jagat Singh Bisht