Travelling further south we headed for River Valley through the stunning Tongariro National Park, New Zealands oldest National Park where we were fortunate to have time to get off the bus for an hours hike.

River Valley is mainly an adventure lodge nestled between towering cliffs and bush clad hills. The Rangitikei River runs right past the front door of the lodge perfect for white water rafting. And that it just what we did there. This is my 3rd experience and although it wasn't as challenging as the previous 2 it was still great fun. Rafting is definitely one of my favourite activities. As we travelled down the river, our guide explained how the fiver is always changing due to the immense boulders that frequetly fall from the cliffs - how very reassuring!!

One of the best things this day was the amazing lamb roast dinner we had. Can't remember the last time I had a roast dinner and it is something a few of us were really missing. Had yorkshire pudding and brocolli, and roast potatoes and mashed potatoes and cabbage and GRAVY. It was just wonderful.