New Zealand. Taupo

After a slightly hungover start, we set of with almost a lie in at 9:30. I chose to get out at the first stop to visit the Te Puia geothermal park and Maori arts and craft institute. We started off hearing about the Maori in a similar way to last nights hangi. Even the same Maori did the sing and dancing at the welcoming ceremony. He must work hard as these tours go hourly and then to do the evening show! I think a few of them do the same too. 

Next we visited some of the craft school areas which showed the students carving and weaving. 

We then headed up to the geothermal pools and to the geyser. To show how hot the water was out guide boiled us some eggs in a pool in 8 minutes. A good breakfast! 

We then headed over to the geyser which was steaming and throwing up water. When it erupted it shot water up into the air and went on for several minutes. This geyser would erupt every hour and can erupt for up to 45 minutes. It was spectacular. 

We then went to see kiwis! There are so few kiwis left so I was really happy to see some as I don't expect to see any in the wild. They are the cutest little birds with big round bums and no wings and a big long beak. No photos were allowed unfortunately :( so I have no proof! 

Our next standard stop was a beautiful waterfall called Huku falls meaning foam falls. As ever glorious blue water and true to form, it was very foamy, well white from the rapids. Looked beautiful with the colours and speed of it. 

After getting into Taupo we saw a view of the mountain we are going to climb tomorrow. Mount Doom from Lord of the Rings! 5am start!!