drive north from Wellington to Rotorua, Lizzie and Mike ensured we
didn't miss a thing.
Climbing along a ridge out of Lower Hutt to the join the coast road,
stopping at the peak to take in the panorama at the top. Paekakariki
down below and Kapiti Island in the distance. The island used as the
backdrop for Skull Island in Jackson's King Kong.
Joining the 'State 1' road we drive through many coastal towns. Most
of which have festive banners adorning the street lights. A timely
reminder to us in shorts and jandles (flip-flops) that it is Chistmas
sometime soon!
Lunchtime, a quick stop in the small town of Bulls for a 6 inch sub
and we're off again.
Heading inland now, still on 'State 1'. The tarmac cuts through hills
and forests, the towns less frequent. Then in the distance we catch
glipses of the snow topped peak of Mt Ruapehu, NZ's most active
volcano. We seem to be driving in it's shadow for quite a while due to
the size of the thing.
Ruapehu now behind us. We set our sights on lake Taupo. We reach it's
southern end, State 1 clings to the eastern shore. We stop for a
paddle, the water's cool and clear. Taupo is a larger town, we don't
stop, instead we head for the Huka Falls. A few miles out of town, the
Falls/rapids are spectacular. Photo opportunity taken, we get back on
the road and head for our destination of Rotorua.
We are now in tribal Maori lands. Sulphur city, rotten eggs. We check-
in at our Motel and head out for food. Sightseeing tomorrow. Following
a theme, we drink beers then bed.
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