The trip to Taupo from Rotorua was a relaxing drive. Not many cars were on the roads and we were treated to more sheep than people. There were many artificial forests which weren’t all that bad to look at but the curious view points the Kiwi’s created of the artificial forests were a bit strange. Luckily for us we had a few stops of natural woods and adventure along the way. One of my favorite locations was a short off road drive and quick jaunt to Kerosene creek. Kerosene creek is a popular free geothermal pool for tourist, and perhaps locals. It get’s it’s name from smelling faintly of kerosene thanks to geothermal water. We didn’t have a the pool to ourselves but there weren’t many people either. It was a fun, warm, and relaxing little stop.
We made other more generic touristy stops along the way such as Huka Falls and the Aratiatia Rapids famous for their role in the Hobbit. The Aratiatia rapids are normally minimals except for a few times a day when the damn is opened and water is released. In the Film the Hobbits were in wine barrels floating down these rapids at what I would call high tide. It was interesting to see the difference of the near empty bed and the power of the full rapids.
Different angles of Huka falls that spill into Aratiatia Rapids.
Aratiatia Rapids and Damn.
We also went to two places that were a bit too kitschy and not really worth the price. The Huka Prawn Park was recommend by a local couple as a good place to get some grub, but to be honest the food tasted too floral and fake. I also convinced Dominic to check out the thermal attraction Craters of the moon, but it was also a bit of a disappointment. We basically walked around steamy ground for 45 mins. It was good to stretch the legs but also kind of a waste of money.
Although we don’t have any pictures we stayed at the Taupo Debretts Hot spring hotel and it was absolutely fabulous. The front desk lady was very helpful with where to find some excellent food (Mole and Chicken Restaurant) and the hot spring pools were also very nice and enjoying.
Deliciousness found at Mole and Chicken. Traditional British style shepherds pie and a delicious lemon sorbet with sugared croutons.