• Mini Golf (Napier)
• Drive to Taupo
• Craters of the Moon
• Honey Hive

Played a game of mini golf in Napier, on the coast - before heading off to Taupo (just under 2hr drive). As we were heading out of Napier, had a utility drive straight across in front off us (i.e. turning right across our lane, just drove across without checking - I think he had assumed we were turning - which we weren't) VERY nearly hit, fortunate he realize and accelerated really hard (throwing up a lot of smoke) and I was able to break very hard (with a fire truck right behind us) and just not hit! We've decided they really have no idea about safe driving over here (interestingly, the local papers also report this same issue - and amazingly they have 0.08 as the legal driving limit!).

The drive was once again amazing, with a lot of rolling very green hills. Stopped at a little lookout - which actually had an incredible view of a significant waterfall - quite spectacular, especially given we were only expecting a view of some hills.

Once at Taupo, followed the Tom Tom to the "Craters of the Moon" - after realizing it had the old address in it - found the tourist signs and followed them… This was well worth the visit - a large geo-thermal area with steam pouring into the air out of literally hundreds of vents - which apparently change on a regular basis - with hot boiling mud in some of the craters. Quite spectacular and a great walk.

Drove around the corner to the "Honey Hive" where there was honey tastings, as well as other honey products available to taste (honey wines, fudge, ice cream, drinks, etc…). The honey here seems a lot different to that in Australia and a lot nicer. Unfortunately it can't be imported into Australia (well into Perth anyway). Tried a honey ice cream (impressively only $3.50 in NZ dollars and was huge and very nice - a pleasant change to have reasonable prices in a very touristy location).

Drove to the motel - had SPA and then walk into town for dinner - Italian. Walk back along the lake at sunset which made for stunning views.