Day 107

We arose early in order to get the most out of our day in Taupo. We had a bargain taxi ride to Craters of the Moon which was our beginning point for the day.

The Craters of the Moon is exactly how it sounds although with hot springs. The craters were in sizes and had a large array of colours within the soil. These colours were used by Kiwi's to dye garmetns, carving and body decorations and the steam was used to clean thier clothes. We were also intrigued to discover that skin burns at 50degrees and the temperature of the steam was at 140degrees.

We then started on our walk back to our hostel along the River Waikato, which is the longest river in New Zealand. On our way back we visited the Huka Falls, which is 38metres in length and a 10metres drop. We were in awe at the colour of the water that went into River. Combined it produces 65% of the North Islands power and 15% of New Zealands total power, the falls average daily flow produces 160 cubic metres per second.

We then continued our walk along the river towards the natural hot springs. Where we bumped into Al's friend Mark and his wife Rosa and we thought 'what a small world'. We then decided on meeting up later for a drink in the city.

Once at the hot springs we donned our swimmers and got in. We were surprised by the temperature as it was hotter than bath water.

We met up with Mark and Rosa after dinner and we struggled to find somewhere to have a drink and ended up inside a restaurant. Where we shared our experiences and provided each other with tips on places.