NZ - Whakatane and surrounds

We packed up a day early from Tongariro National Park as it was quite wet and the tent wasn't proving to be totally waterproof.

On the way to our next destination we stopped off at beautiful Lake Taupo where the sun was shining. Luckily we were able to dry out most of our soggy gear in the picnic area and enjoy the lake with a cup of tea like true Brits. In Taupo we took the opportunity to visit the impressive Huka Falls where lake Taupo is drained and makes lots of hydropower.

The weather in Whakatañe was a bit variable, however we had a great time with Tysh and Steve who were super hosts feeding and watering us, introducing us to great NZ wine and chocolate; I worked with Tysh at Fulham Reach Boat Club so there was quite a lot of rowing chat [sorry Sian].

It was a real treat to have a couple of rows on the lovely calm river at Whakatañe Rowing Club. As well as discovering the Whakatañe area (and getting our hire car fixed) we treated ourselves to an afternoon of a soaking in the thermal pools in nearby Rotarua - highly recommended. From Whakatañe we also visited the volcanic White Island which we'll cover in a separate post.