Greetings from rainy Rotorua!

We arrived in Rotorua on Saturday morning in glorious sunshine, and I am
now writing this surrounded by soggy clothing. Not all glamourous this travelling lark.

It's been a while since we've blogged, so will get you up to speed. We visited Raglan for the day which is lovely if tiny with black sand beaches. Whilst staying at our second WWOOF with Leanne we explored Maungatautari Nature Reserve and scaled to the summit - sometimes clambering up on hands and knees. Thankfully the view was worth it.

Back to Rotorua - we explored one of the parks on Saturday and discovered what Rotorua is all about - thermal activity. Eggy steam wafted across the park as we wandered around, sometimes accompanied by ominous violent gurgling noises. This is pretty normal for here, especially the smell.

Meandered on a circuit around the lake on Sunday - enjoyed Sulphur Bay with it's greens and yellows in the rocks and more bubbling pools. Then spent the evening relaxing at the Polynesian Spa in their seven outdoor pools ranging from 39 C to 42 C. Toasty.

Today we braved the rain (showers at first, then stronger and eventually going sideways) to discover Whakarewarewa - the living thermal village. Maori still live in the village and use the thermal pools for bathing and cooking. There was a cultural performance that included audience participation, so I found myself on stage trying out a poi dance (with hilarious results I can assure you). Also met a lovely Korean lady who's brother lives in Croydon. She also attempted the poi with me and we were hopeless together.

Our plans for moving on are up in the air - we were going to attempt the 20km Tongariro Crossing this week but don't fancy it in the rain (surprisingly). So who knows?

Lou and Mike xxx