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Saturday 28th August
Today was the day that we finally, after years of waiting, saw a kiwi. It was a momentous day! This morning we went to Te Puia, which is a centre for Maori Arts and Culture in a geothermal valley and just so happens to have a Kiwi House too (there's a lot happening at Te Puia!).
In a darkened round house we saw the nocturnal kiwi. They are beautiful creatures and we truly felt privileged to see one. After seeing the kiwi we watched a Maori Cultural performance, which involved a traditional welcoming ceremony followed by singing and a haka - it was fascinating seeing the traditional rituals, and song and dance!
We then took walks around the geothermal areas, seeing the famous Pohutu geyser erupt and lots of bubbling mud pools. We also spent some time at the other cultural attractions, including a traditional Maori village.
After leaving Te Puia we drove down to Taupo, stopping at the stunning Huka Falls - which has beautiful light blue water (see our pics!). In Taupo we had dinner at Dixie Brown's which was yummy, and ended our wonderful day full of kiwis and Maoris! :)
- comments
Mum and Dad So envious you saw a kiwi!! Love the mud pools and geysers. You both look really happy. xxx