New Zealand thus far-
Auckland - As far as cities go, I didn't think Auckland was everything special. Most the people I talked to said the same thing and it wasn't neccessary to spend more than a couple days there. While there I spent some time walking around the city, they have some really nice parks and a decent Museum but nothing too crazy. I also spent half a day taking the ferry out to Rangitoto - a volcanic island and hiking to the top. There were some pretty cool lava caves on the side that you could go and explore! Note to self- a flashlight would be very helpful next time. The entire city of Auckland is built on a "dormant" volcano field- though Rangitoto was the last one to erupt... only 600 years ago!
Waitomo - Waitomo is a tiny city a few hours south of Auckland. This region of New Zealand produces a large portion of the worlds dairy products. Just riding the bus out of the city and seeing the awesome landscapes was refreshing. I'm not sure how many times I looked around and thought I was in the Shire. BUT the real reason I came here was for the glow worm caves! Glow worms are moth larvae that are on the ceilings in dark caves. They trick flies into coming close to them as they mimic the night sky and then trap them in a webbing they dangle down from the ceiling for eating later! I did a black water rafting trip where you sit on a tube and float/climb down the river that runs through the cave system. At one point we turned all the lights off and just watched the glow warms in the pitch black!
Rotorua - A city built on geothermals! The people here use the power of the geysers to heat homes, water and even cook food in! They also have a great forest on the hill behind the city. When british colonists first settled in the 1800's they planted 150 different tree species to see what they could grow and use for lumber. The California redwoods are of course the biggest attraction. There are some great hiking paths through the forest with awesome views over the city, though some of the paths were closed for logging operations.
Taupo - A nice little city on a giant lake in New Zealand. A little ways down the Waikato river which flows from here, there is a thermal pool that runs into the river. It's awesome jumping into the steaming hot pool and then moving 10 feet into the chilly river! I also saw my first jet boat on the river. Jet boats are a super manuaverable and quick boat powered by two streams of water. These looked like a TON of fun to ride on and I'll definitely be doing it later in the trip.
Tongariro Crossing - An epic 18km through Mordor! This takes you past several peaks, volcanic craters, lava fields and lakes! The weather for the day started quite good, but clouds and heavy winds rushed in just as I hit the Tongariro summit. Had conditions been that bad before I went up, I probably would not have done it. I'd love to go back on a nicer day and do this hike. On a clear day you are able to get coast to coast views! About halfway through the descent out on the opposite side, the terrain quickly changes from alpine to dense forest. I sudden change was quite surprising!
Next stop is Wellington! Until next time!
Brandon
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