Our host family in Rotorua. They were absolutely terrific. Local knowledge just makes the difference. They helped us avoid the tourist traps, gave us the use of their mountain bikes and showed us good bike routes. We really enjoyed trail biking the area.There's something about barreling down a narrow bush trail while accurately navigating the terrain that is very satisfying. They took us to the best thermal swimming holes off the beaten track. We of course did some amazing work in their "forgotten garden"...... I've neer seen so many roses on one property. And we introduced them to chocolate zuchinni loaf.

 My favourite the hot and cold pools.

We visited the Maori cultural centre in Rotorua. It was both entertaining and informative. They do some amazing things with their faces ... it makes one realize how much communication occurs through body language.  Their carvings are very beautiful more detailed and intricate than what we're familiar with on the west coast.

a geyser

 We love the forests especially the tree ferns. We'd like to import these to Cobble Hill. 

We spent a week in a geothermal wonderland which is probably the most visited place in New Zealand. Even before Teawara errupted and buried the pink and white terraces, the eight wonder of the world.