On the evening of the 2nd February we all headed to the Mitai Maori Village to learn abit more about their history and culture. Set within the natural bush setting, we arrived at the village and was welcomed into the food tent where the evening got off to a great start with a funny compere who managed to greet people in over 15 different languages. Once our "leader" was chosen (a massive guy from Canada who we all thought was suitable for the job) we saw the hangi (traditional meal) being lifted out of the ground and then we were treated to the arrival of warriors along the river. Decked out in traditional dress they arrived on an original boat and we enjoyed their chants and song. We then sat down and enjoyed a 30 minute show by the family that make up the Mitai village. Although we were impressed by all the shows of weaponary combats and games, we were all abit scared! We wouldnt want to meet a Maori alone on a dark night, particuarly after watching their war dance (haka)!

By the end of the show everyone was more than ready for their traditional meal. The hangi was well worth the wait as we helped ourselves to New Zeland lamb, chicken, potatoes (normal and kumara) and lots of salad and vegetables. There was even chocolate roll and trifle for afters. We enjoyed our meal whilst chatting to a couple on our table and sharing travel stories. Around 9pm the night was finished off with a bush walk where we got to see a few glow worms (Pete and Ash assure us no were near as many as they saw) and the crystal clear river full of eels and trout. A great experience!

All trip Ash had really wanted to see a geyser and so seen as there was one nearby (Lady Knox) which set off at 10.15am every day, we thought we may as well head there first thing. As we arrived we all sat around on the tiered seating hoping the water wouldnt erupt too high and wet us. After being given a brief explanation of the history and mechanics of the geyser, some soap like substance was added and it started to bubble. Within a few minutes the water was shooting upto 10m high in the air and lucvkily the guide moved in time. Impressive!

After weçd had enough of the geyser we headed to the Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland which was spectacular to say the least. Visitors are able to walk around at their own pace to see a number of features including the world famous champagne pool, volcanic craters, hot and cold pools as well as the devils pool at the end which was bright green in colour. The array of colours was breathtaking and im sure youll be able to see from the number of pictures, a photographers dream! This is one of the most extensive geothermal areas in New Zealand and was well worth the visit. Its hard to believe its all natural. The morning was finished off with a visit to the bubbling mud pool. If only we couldve jumped in for a detox.....

Off we headed to Raglan, one of the surf capitals of the North Island!