Another bright and early morning start for Day 5 of our trip. Our itinerary for that day was to get to Palmerstone North before sundown for a quick nights sleep before we head over to Wellington. It may sound like a long boring drive but it was actually to the contrary. There were so many things to see so we were able to make frequent stops to break up the tedious driving.
First stop on our way over was at Huka Falls. Huka Falls was about an hours away from Rotorua and was just before our first lunch pit stop at Lake Taupo.
The falls can be clearly heard from quite a fair distance away as it is an extremely powerful waterfall. It isn't very tall but you definitely don't want to get caught in that part of the river. The sheer force of the waterfall would definitely keep you down under the water. It is quite amazing. The water was also a pretty turquoise colour. Is there anything in New Zealand that isn't somehow beautiful?
There were Huka Falls jet boat tours that would bring you maximum that close to the waterfall. I think they wouldn't dare risk getting any closer or the jet would probably capsize. Which isn't exactly anyone's idea of fun considering how dangerous the waterfall can be.
Not too far from Huka Falls there was also a place called "Craters of the Moon". It really was like being on alien plains. As you may well know, New Zealand is a volcano hot spot. As a result, geothermal areas like this has created quite the tourist attraction. There were quite literally craters on the ground with steaming hot gas billowing out of the holes and bubbling mud down the bottom. You could even hear the gentle bubbling of the mud underneath our feet. We attempted some photos that made it seem like Danny was in some crazy movie production. Didn't quite turn out as expected but it was worth a try haha.
Brief stop at Lake Taupo where we had KFC for lunch. Making healthy choices everyday. We dressed as comfy as possible for the drive so don't mind our outfits of baggy pants and sweaters. Not really much to see here. A very large lake which did make for some pleasant lunch scenery.
The whole trip we were anticipating the snow. At the Tongariro national park we got way over excited over some tiny patches of snow left over from a snow storm the other day.
And, the Golden Hour. Had it not been for a detour I basically forced Danny to make (to the national park) we probably wouldn't have been able to see the sunset right against the mountain. Honestly the most beautiful sunset I've ever seen. So grateful that we were driving by at just the right time.
Artsy fartsy attempts. I'm still a beginner at using my camera.
We arrived at Palmerstone North after sundown. A little later than scheduled but it was ok. We were exhausted. We bought some groceries from the supermarket, made our dinner, had a bath and then we plopped on the bed to sleep for another early start.
I really wish I had thought to video more of our trip. Of course I remember much of the trip but the details are hazy and I love looking back at videos anyway.
Post soon about Wellington!
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