Rotorua

Our first major trip in New Zealand was to Taupo via the Forgotten World Highway. The kids like to say it has been forgotten for a reason. I found our accommodation on Air B and B with a couple who were originally from Zimbabwe. We had a great time and getting back to Taupo to visit has been high on our list of things to do before we leave New Zealand.

A photo from our last visit

We got our chance in early September and Charms and Gordon were kind enough to host us again. This visit was a good opportunity to visit Rotorua, a town about an hour north of Taupo. Rotorua is a pleasant, touristy city known for its geothermal hot springs.

A thermal vent, but the air is cool and windy

Imported giant sequoias

Our fun for the day started with pizza and progressed to the luge. We had great fun with the kids riding the chair lift up the hill and the luge carts down.

Steven detailing a youtube episode

Jack with the school parrot

Waiting in line for our first run

On the way up

...and down we go

The parrot got a ride

It was great seeing our friends again.

Petting Cooper

Charms and Gordon