Rotorua to Te Awanga

Polynesian Spa

After breakfast we went to the Polynesian Spa at 8 am. The water we bathed in comes from geothermic acidic and alkaline hot mineral springs. The acidic water remains in its natural state so there is no control over temperature or clarity. It is renowned for its therapeutic properties offering relief from tired muscles, aches and pains, arthritis and rheumatism. The alkaline water is characterised by its normal clarity and soft feel. It emanates from a deep boiling spring and is cooled to bathing temperature by the addition of town supply cold water. The clarity of the water can change under some atmospheric conditions. The bland, soothing, antiseptic action of sodium silicate makes this water very pleasing on the skin.

Poi Dance

Dad doing the Haka

Mud Pools

I felt incredibly relaxed, soft, and happy after our bathe! While in Rotorua, we visited Te Puia – home to the internationally renowned Pohutu geyser, the National carving and weaving schools, and the world famous Whakarewarewa guides. The Maori cultural performance was exceptional! We gathered outside the main entrance to the Marae witnessed a traditional karanga (welcome). Inside the meeting house we were surrounded by beautiful wooden carvings and treated to song and dance. Lindsey, Mum, and I got to try a poi dance and Dad got to perform a Haka!! After the performances, we took a tour of the ancient valley where we saw the world-famous Pohutu geyser, mud pools, and boiling waters. Then we took a walk through the Kiwi House where I saw my first Kiwi Bird! They are much bigger than I had anticipated. And very cute!

Prince of Wales Geyser

Finally, we hit the road again and headed toward Te Awanga (which is near Hastings). We made a few stops along the way.

Huka Falls

The Huka Falls are the largest falls on the Waikato River, near Taupo. They are the most visited natural attraction in New Zealand! The Waikato River is one of New Zealand's longest rivers and it drains Lake Taupo - the largest freshwater lake in all of Australasia. At the Huka Falls, the Waikato River, which is normally 100m wide, is squeezed through a 20 metre wide gorge, crosses over a hard volcanic ledge, and drops over a 20 metres. Every second up to 220,000 litres of water gushes through the gorge and shoots out over 8 metres beyond to create a beautiful blue/green pool. The name Huka is the Maori word for 'foam', which is appropriate as the falling water and rapids certainly resembles foam. After some more driving we stopped in a town along Lake Taupo. We went to an All-Blacks store, a wine store, and Mum was facinated by the McDonald's airplane. Haha.

Roger and Family Dinner

When we finally reached Te Awanga, we had dinner with Roger and his family (Helen, Thomas, and Philipa). Roger and Dad grew up together in Berwick. That night we camped in their driveway.