Rotorua
Where the Maori culture unites with volcanic activity and the haka and hangi reveal themselves. Rotorua is a surreal place steeped in legend and history, not forgetting natural wonders. Full of geothermal activity, the strong stench of rotten egg takes some getting used to and without even spending a penny you can walk by steaming pools and boiling mud.
A Maori wood carving.
Maori culture is alive and well in this city. Below some very scarey looking Maori warrior's performing at the Tamaki Village cultural show.
Geothermal activity in Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland.
The Champagne Pool
Huka Falls
The Waikato River, New Zealand's longest river flows gracefully until it enters a narrow ravine just before Huka Falls, where the water is then ferociously forced out. Approximately 220,000 litres of water blast by every second over the falls.
Lake Taupo.
The freedom to stop just about anywhere you want, for as long as you want, is what it's all about.
Tongarario National Park - Lord of the Rings.
In order to complete this trek in a day we had to camp at the base of the National Park, which turned out to be the coldest night of our lives. With frost on the ground and icy winds hitting the back of our car (which was open and only protected with a flimsy cover) not even thermals, hats and jumpers eased the pain of the biting cold. Despite being blessed with relatively clear skies and great trekking weather the following day, the conditions were still harsh when we reached the top of the crossing. The last two hours we ran the whole way back down hill, hoping to catch one of the earlier buses back to base camp. Huge mistake! Our bodies were left broken and sore, even walking was a painful exercise.
To understand the scale of this place have a look at the bottom of this picture, you can make out the tiny people making their way up the winding path to the crater of the volcano.
Unfortunately we only have the above photos of the park. The following day we accidentely deleted everyone of Bruno's photos, thinking we already had them uploaded. Devastating, as they were taken with a wide angle lens and trully captured the enormity of this place.
Resting after the Tongrario crossing.
What's cooking?
Some wine to ease our muscle aches and pains.
Wellington
Our New Zealand trip was timed to perfection to arrive in Wellington for a family wedding and to finally meet all the O'Hagan clan in Plimmerton. Relaxing with everyone was a perfect way to break up our non stop touring of the islands. My mum and dad also made it out for the wedding which was lovely. Especially as she was able to bring over my high heels, dress, make-up and Bruno's suit for Sarah & Duncan's big day and then take them all back again, along with some things no longer needed...Cheers mum, you were a life saver!!
View over Wellington
New Zealand is full of long leisurely walks like the one below.
New Zealand - blooming beautiful!
The vibrant, native Pohutukawa tree.
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