New Zealand – Australian Part 3

Drove to Te Puia where there are thermal geysers and a Maori villiage.

We saw many elaborate totems.

Te Aronui-ā-rua, the carved meeting house.

Very elaborate interior. Our Maori guide told us of the Maori religious beliefs.

The geyser area was rich in minerals.

Many small geysers and strong sulfur smells.

Maori long boat with amazing carvings.

Back to the hotel past this bath house building now the Rotorua Museum.

It is closed for repairs after an earthquake.

Elaborate gates to the Government Gardens.

The gardens behind the gates and the distance Rotorua Museum.

After lunch we went on a Duck Tour. We did not go on the large Lake Rotorua

since it is almost thick with minerals.

Instead we went to lakes so pristine you can drink from them.

Stocked with trout.

One of the lakes allows modest development. No other homes on this lake but these.

Very pretty area.

Lumber is a big industry in New Zealand. Here is the residue from clear cutting.

The area will be replanted.

We walked to Eat Street and had dinner at this Thai Restaurant.

Many other choices along this clever street.

Bicycle tree near our hotel.

Black swans at the shore of Lake Rotorua.

Flying to Christchurch this morning.

Smallish plane.

Goodbye to Lake Rotorua and the small city with the hint of sulfur in the air.

Christchurch airport tower under renovation with nearby art.

Pit stop on our way to Mt. Cook. Most products say “Designed in New Zealand, Made in China.”

The wool products were the exception.

As we climbed into the more mountainous area we saw fields full of cattle, sheep and deer.

The distant mountains got bigger and bigger.

Big lake.

Beautiful country even though very overcast.

Church is letting out.

Serous mountains coming up.

Another beautiful lake.

It is getting late.

We are getting close.

Pit stop with art.

A bit later.

Finally got to our room at the Hermitage Lodge at Mt Cook.

We will have to wait until morning to see the sights.