A week in Taupo via Wellington
We sadly bid a farewell to our campervan in Christchurch relieved that we hadn't added to the numerous dents that it had when we began and headed to the airport for the short flight to the bottom of the north island and Wellington. Our ever expanding carbon footprint was added to further but we had very little option as coach travel was more expensive and the train only runs three times a week.
We only had half a day in Wellington but after doing the obligatory walking tour in Lonely Planet and visiting the excellent National Museum we retired to a harbour side bar and sampled some of the fine local brew.
Our plan was just to have a taster of Wellington then return later in our time in New Zealand but we left feeling that although it was pleasant enough there was no real reason to return in a hurry. The best bits of New Zealand are not found in its cities.
From Wellington we caught a morning coach to Taupo in the centre of the north island unsurprisingly on the banks of Lake Taupo. Waiting for us here were David's mum and dad, and an apartment for six nights. This represented regal luxury compared to the hostels and campervan that we have been used to over the past few weeks.
The apartment boasted 2 bedrooms both with an ensuite bathroom, however this was actually the same bathroom with dodgy locks meaning it was necessary to keep a careful ear open for other potential bathroom users whilst enjoying any of the ample facilities which the bathroom offered.
As well as the improved apartment facilities we also enjoyed a step up in swankiness for the type of restaurants which we ate in - we enjoyed some fine meals enjoying the break from pasta and sauce.
Our first excursion was to Huka Falls which is barely ten minutes from Taupo, here the Waikato River which is the only river out of Lake Taupo gets forced down a slim channel first before gushing over the falls at the end, at a rate that could fill an Olympic size swimming pool in two seconds! The river has been used along its length for hydro-electric power generation producing 15% of NZ's electricity.
Our next stop was to the volcanic centre where we learnt the theoretical side before we experienced the practical sights over the following days.
Our next excursion was to the active geothermal site of Orakei Koraka. After a short boat trip across a lake we explored the marvellous sight of caves, geysers, hot pools, bubbling mud and all other manner of volcanic stuff. The walk around the site gave great photo opportunities and provided a stark reminder of just how potentially unstable and changing this part of the world can be.
We were awake bright and early the following morning to be collected to walk Tongariro Crossing which is supposedly the best one day hike in NZ. It was brilliant. The walk is a little over 19km over changing volcanic landscape that at times appears almost lunaresque. The walk took about seven hours and ensured that we both enjoyed a good nights sleep. Just in case anyone is wondering we weren't joined by the parents for this.
On our final day in Taupo we took to the lake on a replica steam boat to look at the town from the water and also some far from ancient Maori rock carvings. They were done in 1980. Despite their age they were still pretty impressive.
A final meal at our favourite restaurant followed as our relaxing six days came to an end. Thanks to Mum and Dad for a great few days.
We are then back on the bus for a trip further north to Auckland…