An amazing day spent in this Volcanic valley wandering around the steaming lakes and natural bubbling waters- quite a unique experience. We also took the boat trip in the flooded crater known as Lake Rotomahana, the deepest lake of the North Island. This whole area was created solely as a direct result of a volcanic eruption - the Tarawera Eruption of 10 June 1886. The history is fascinating and the whole tour (walk, bus & boat) I would recommend as a must do in this area. Another scenic drive along State Highway 5- Thermal Explorer Highway took us to Hawke's Bay- home for Treza & Sean for the past 3 years (and Alfie the dog who I think remembered us!). The evenings are quite chilly here still so a log fire warmed things up well (and a few beers too).