Rotorua

Those of you wondering if we fell of this side of the world, we have not. We have just had terrible internet service for the last 5 days. It was costly and really poor service. Anyways, we have been in Rotorua. Land of geothermal activity and tourist traps, otherwise known as Roto- Vegas. And we have fallen into a couple of traps, but the kids loved it. We went to the Agrodome. (Yes, Uncle Jim you were right. You always have been and always will be!) The kids loved seeing and touching all the sheep. They even got to milk a cow! Then off to the Gondola ride and sky rides. It is similar to the old slide rides in Collingwood. It was good fun racing down the hills. Amelia and I were only out of control a few times and I have the scar to prove it. Day 2 in Rotorua meant an Amphibious Duck ride. Old war GMC DUKs used for water and land. There were lots of learning for the kids and us about the history and the lakes of the area. The hit of the day was going to the Maori village for a hangi feast. (same one we went with Adam and Karina, many years ago). The girls were scared and timid at the beginning, at the Te Wero. They really thought that this is how things were still here on a native village. Once they figured out it was a show about their history and ancestry, they relaxed. They got to see many of the dances and weaponry of the Maoris and were mesmerized. Now they have an idea that the poi’s that Bubbles gave them were not for hitting each other with. We were worried that our picky Canadian eaters would not enjoy the Hangi feast. But to our surprise it was all good. Amelia thought the beef was good, up until the time that Bridget announced that it was lamb!! Good times were had and they really enjoyed saying “Kia Ora” over and over again. It is great hearing them. Day 3 Out to venture through more Geothermal areas. This time we saw Lady Knox’s geyser erupt and walked around the many active craters. I have almost had enough of bubbling water and mud!! The kids have learned the about the wonderful aroma of geothermal areas…Rotten Eggs! They are enjoying the colours it produces but the smell not so much. Thank goodness, we are not staying in the hard of it like when we stayed with Jim here. Can’t even smell it at all! The kids have enjoyed our accommodations here. There is a playground 20 feet outside our door and the pool is 30 feet away. The pool has been a lovely 26C. No worries about the heating bill here! Two more sleeps and on we move. Off to the Polynesian Spa tomorrow can’t wait. I hope I don’t get water in my ear, right Jim! Day 4 was a very relaxing day. The weather was not the best, but it was not cold. We went ZORBING this morning. (just as Lepannen told us to). It was a lot of fun being put inside a big ball with water and rolling down a hill. It was similar to snow tubing only in a bathing suit with warm water being sloshed around you. Amelia was brave and went all by herself and Bridge and I tumbled together. Di was the official stuff girl and photographer. We wished it didn’t cost so much, because we all wanted to go again. The afternoon was spent at the Polynesian spa, soaking in the 33C, 37C and 40C family pools. A great way to finish up the week here. We also went to the coolest playground ever. It definitely wouldn’t be found at home. It had liability written all over it, but it was fun!! Interesting fact of the day..price of gas/petrol $1.65 per litre. Cheers Carolyn