This morning we had a sleep in and then went for a walk through the forest and over the top of the caves we explored yesterday. I'm really enjoying the walks here, it's a good way of spending the morning and seeing lots.

We then travelled to one of the largest swing bridges in New Zealand. The views were incredible however the bridge felt like it was going to give way with 40 people on it!

This afternoon we went luging; which is mixed between sledging and go karting; a New Zealand invention which is so much fun! We travelled up to the top of the hill on a gondola (cable car) which was nice in itself as the views were really pretty. We had an amazing hot beef baguette for lunch and then raced down the hill on our luges. We traveled back up the hill on a chair lift which brought memories of skiing!

This evening we went to the most amazing village visit which brought us back in time to when the warriors lives in New Zealand (pre European time). It was called the Maori village trip and I recommend this to anyone who travels to New Zealand.

The night started with a traditional welcoming ritual which involved the warriors dancing to see whether we were friend or foe. We then were welcomed into the houses and took part in several activities and talks where we learnt about their way of life. The taught the men the 'haka' the traditional dance they still do in rugby, and talked about how they made their houses and clothes.

They also showed us how they cooked their food. As they live over geothermal activity they can cook their good underground. While we were there, they lifted the food out of the ground which had been cooking for hours. It was such good food; so many types of meats and potatoes and veg!

I'm now in bed feeling very over full from the food!

Xxxx