Our gracious hosts loaned us their car and we drove south for approximately 3 hours to Rotorua—probably the furthest we've driven in over a year. Road trip! The hills and landscape reminded us a little of Oregon. Beautiful! Our first stop on the way into town was Rainbow Springs—a Kiwi Wildlife Park. They are best known for their Kiwi Encounter. The Kiwi is a flightless bird native to New Zealand. It is about the size of a chicken but it lays a large egg in relation to its body size. It is an endangered species due to deforestation and invasive predators. The Kiwi is a national symbol of New Zealand. Check out the Rainbow Springs website! http://www.rainbowsprings.co.nz
It is a pretty cool place! "Rainbow Springs has been a favorite destination of travelers since 1932. Spread over 22 acres of parkland, it offers a truly unique experience, and is a must-see for anyone who wants to get to know New Zealand's wonderful environment and animals", says their brochure. The main reason we went there was to see the Kiwi which is a nocturnal bird. They have the poor thing so confused that it is awake during the day and asleep during the night. They've created a perfect environment for day time viewing. As a bonus, we enjoyed viewing many other animals, birds and fish that are native to New Zealand.
Next, we checked into our hotel which overlooked one of the thermal parks that Rotorua is famous for. The whole place smells strongly of sulfur but the view from our balcony was terrific.
After checking in we went to check out a couple lakes and the Buried Village. We arrived just after closing so missed it entirely.
We enjoyed dinner out at Urbano Bistro. The food was delicious and the wine...YUMMO!
The next morning, we went to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Wai-o-tapu means sacred waters. The first stop was Lady Knox Geyser which erupts daily at 10:15 a.m. and reaches a height of up to 20 meters (65 ft).
We then strolled, nearly 2 miles, thru the park.
Our focus was color and texture.
We got some beautiful shots.
Cool pics. The one looking through the foliage at the blue lake looks like a dinosaur should be there.
ReplyDeleteIsnt that pic of you two at the tree a bit graphic? I had to cover my eyes! :)
I meant to make that comment. Those fern trees are so cool and totally prehistoric looking!
ReplyDeleteGreat pictures of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. I thought the pictures of you guys by the tree, were sweet.:) You did get some beautiful shots. Looked like a lovely Bistro to have dinner at. Rainbow Springs looked like a neat place to visit also. I feel sorry for the Kiwi Bird though, since they have his clock messed up. He is interesting looking.
ReplyDeleteWow, gotta get to this New Zealand place! Thanks for the colorful shots... Also funny to see everyone in non-tropical wear. :-)
ReplyDeleteWe have very much enjoyed traveling through your blog. We also enjoy watching birds. Thanks for the kiwi photo and the sneak peak of Australia and New Zealand.
ReplyDeleteamazing pictures you guys. Good thing we have technology where would you keep them!
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