SaturdayFrom Taupo along lakeside to Turangi. This route follows the Desert Road that is often closed in winter because of snow. It is very bleak but has far reaching views of surrounding mountains. Stayed at Ohakune in Tongariro National Park.SundayTo Whakapapa Village at foot of Mt Ruapehu (2747m and the highest peak in New Zealand). There are three active volcanoes in the range dominating the National Park. The other two are Mt Tongariro and Mr Ngauruhoe - for the Lord of the Rings fans, this mountain was Mt. Doom in the film. Took chair lift to the top ski field on Mt Ruapehu. I hoped she was in good mood as she last erupted in September 2007 - fortunately nobody was killed but one British guy was badly injured. From the top there is a walk to the Ridge, across snow fields, boulders and tracks. Great fun and awe inspiring views. Unfortunately because I didn't know the walk was there I only had trainers instead of boots so did not do all of it but that which I did was good. Took time to view the displays and videos in the Visitors' Centre. Excellent display all about the history of the ski fields and the volcanoes, together with videos. Stayed overnight at Waitomo Caves - well not in the caves, but close by.MondayComplete contrast today. Spent yesterday on what felt like the top of the world. Today spent four hours underground. The first cave we went rafting in was scary (at least I wasn't nuts about it). In total darkenss we glided through the caves looking at the glow worms which were quite spectacular. As we went along rushing water could be heard getting louder and louder - we were approaching an underwater waterfall. I nearly freaked out although we were told it was only about a metre high - didn't sound like that. Sounded more like Niagra Falls - scary or what. Anyway I was quite glad to get out of there but perversely I was glad that I had gone in and seen the glow worms. Then walked through a cave that goes at least 800m underground. Saw remains of a Moa, an extinct NZ bird. Good day out. Spent night at friend's house in Tirau. Lovely to be back in a proper home again.