In the early evening light at the base of Mt Ruapehu, it looks far more sinister than I was expecting. Tendrils of cloud cling desperately to its surface, giving the impression that the mountain is ready to speak. Despite its dormancy, Ngauruhoe inspires trepidation.
As part of a large expanse of volcanic terrain, it is unusual for the symmetry of its cone. The surrounding mountains have been torn asunder by the ferocity of blasts in histories past. However, for this infant structure, its time to tyrannically dominate the landscape is yet to come. While it waits, it is content to silently hide in the pink hues that dusk paints across its ashen peak.
In this still and gorgeous light, its hostile charisma is unnerving. I am hypnotised and not surprised that it was used to portray the much-feared Mount Doom in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Perhaps, even now, it is watching me.
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