Day 8
Another early start as we wish to be at the wonderland in time to see the Lady Knox Geyser blow her stack, this occurs at 10:15 am everyday. It's a miserable day so black bags over our clothes and jacket, tickets and poncho (for Louise) are purchased and we head off and await the spectacle. We take our spot in the viewing area and the tour guide approaches the vent, gasps ring around but then the conundrum of the timing is revealed. The guide once again pleases us with his informative narration and proceeds to put washing powder into the hole, this produces the enormous eruption.......on demand. Suitably wowed we returned to explore the wonderland. The place is a smorgasbord of colours, smells, eye popping scenery and other worldly sights. No words can really describe this volcanic "theme park". Dumbstruck and wet we leave and head towards Lake Taupo. We pull into a freedom camp site right on the lake and bang in the middle of town. Apparently the McDonald's here is "a must thing to do" so we must..... Ha brilliant this is officially the 'coolest McDonald's' on the planet as proved by certificates on the wall all because there is an original very important aeroplane on site that you can dine in. I (Sarah) think it is the coolest for other reasons.... McDonald sell pies!! The Georgie pie, mince beef and cheese is delicious. It's a bit cold tonight, we find a backpackers, happy hour bar and have a few glasses "to take off the edge".....