We didn't have to leave Rotorua untill lunchtime so I went on the trip to Whakawerewerea thermal village with most of the other girls. We spent an hour or so wandering the village with our guide then watched a cultural performance before being fed corn and sausages cooked in thermal waters. Morrie came to collect us then it was back to the hostel to load up the bus and set off for Taupo. Although I'd only been away for two weeks, I was very excited to be ...

Fri - I got up early and joined Bagginz on the express bus up to Auckland.  Danielle was staying in Wellington for a few days so she could have a proper look around and a few days peace without me.  I got off the bus in Taupo and went to the Berkenhoff.  Decided to check into Scrappy's room just so I could have some company (lucky her).   Had a burger in the bar with Scrappy then we went out for a few quiet drinks! Sat - Didn't do much during t...

After breakfast we left Waitomo and started drving towards Taupo which is home of New Zealands largest lake.  On the drive into town, Mum got her first sighting of a snow covered mountain.  We had lunch in Taupo then Andrew went off in search of a golf course whilst Mum and I walked around the lake a little bit.  The first time I was in Taupo with Contiki, I don't think I had ever really noticed the view but the scenery here is beautiful. ...