Cat drove again when we left Poverty Bay and headed towards the centre of the North Island to the volcanic regions of Rotorua and Taupo. On the way, through this crazy road skirting a gorge all the traffic was being stopped by the police as there had been loads of serious accidents on the road caused by fatigued. Cat was breathalised and passed!They had a little rest area set up and were giving out free coffee and sausage sandwiches which Ste was particularly happy about. After our little rest we headed towards Rotorua and saw 2 adult Kiwis and their baby crossing the road, which was brilliant, especially as their so rare and are meant to be nocturnal!

There are loads of lakes around Rotorua, all of which seemed huge to what we’re used to and they were very beautiful. We could tell when we were getting close to the thermal area as there was a distinct odour in the air, caused by the sulphur, a lovely whiff of rotten eggs. You soon got used to it though and we headed to The Polynesian Spa, which is a series of hot natural mineral pools overlooking Lake Rotorua, each with varying temperatures and elements, some were more acidic, some more alkaline, some with radium and some with Sulphur. It was very very relaxing in there, especally as it wasn’t too busy and we were in the adults only area. The view out over the lake with all the pretty birds and snow capped mountains in the distance was lovely to look at too. And the spa had been cleverly designed to look like a Japanese garden. We thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon relaxing there and couldn’t be bothered to drive the 80kms to Taupo but just about managed to stay awake we got there.

Lake taupo was even bigger than Lake Rotorua and the Tongariro Mountains could be seen in the distance. Taupo town was a really cool place with loads of boutique shops and bars and cafes. The Macdonalds there was even cooler, it was a plane! We went on a river cruise along from the Aratiatia Dam and rapids to Huka Falls which was really good fun and lovely weather for it too. After a busy day of sightseeing the campsite had a heated outdoor pool to relax in, lush!

On our final day in the volcanic region we headed to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, on the road out of Taupo. What a brilliant morning spent watching a geyser spurt washing powder everywhere then walking around an area that look better placed in an old sci-fi film as another planet. There were Sulphur lakes, boiling mud, craters and loads of different brightly coloured pools caused by naturally occurring elements like arsenic and carbon. And again the smell of rotten eggs, but it was well worth it to see these incredible naturally occurring wonders.

We thoroughly enjoyed our flying visit to the volcanic region, the scenery and sights were amazing and you soon got used to the smell. Cat is now addicted to the hot pools so we’ll have to buy a hot tub when we get back.