Already in a farewell mood, I set out for the "Thermal Wonderland", about 25 kilometers south of Rotorua.
Once again last nights camping in my beloved tent, before I sell it then (as well as camping chair, camping mat, cooking pot) successfully to other people on the campsite.
At night while peeing on the lake look (see photo) ... How nice!
On the morning after Tongariro Crossing, I treat myself to a laaaanges bath in Kerosene Creek. (Thanks to Kevin for the tip!) The creek has a fabulous 40 degrees, which feels hotter than it sounds.
Afterwards, I visit Wai-o-Tapu, an area where it is really bubbly entertaining at every turn. Fascinating to see it simmer like that. Of course, if the earth is puffing, the smell is not for the fussy!
The next day a little hike on Rainbow Mountain, more like a hill. Hard not to make friends there with the friendly fire station. His job: to look into the landscape all day, if it is burning. An obviously important job given the big fire at Nelson. But nevertheless he is very happy about visit.
I am pleased about the wide view: you can see the peaks of the Tongariro National Park (where I was 36 hours before) in 111 km as the crow flies!
New Zealand is paying a high price for the earthquakes, one of the most fascinating landscapes in the world. I was able to experience all the most beautiful wonders of nature here (fortunately no earthquake) and I have to say that my expectations were surpassed again. As far as I can judge now after driving through the North Island, the South Island is already a league in itself. As soon as I am rich (traveling in New Zealand makes one poor), there will be a reunion with the South Island and hopefully a more intense discovery of the North Island!
