February 27, 2014. Toupo, NZ. Maori/Rotorua

I am so pleased we decided to spend a week on the north island of New Zealand. This place is fascinating. The farms are lush and prosperous, the Maori culture is thriving and the geysers are spectacular. Our day was lovely, wandering from place to place, all through the country roads. This morning we visited a display of Maori prowess, which included dancing and singing. The center also includes a school for carving and weaving. Thirty years ago, the culture was in retreat, but not anymore. The language has once again coming alive and their multiple tribes are a vibrant part of the New Zealand economy. They are hard working, neat and tidy people and solid citizens of the country. I learned all that at the Maori center. I wonder if it is true? Rotorua was just like Yellowstone with pools of mud bubbling up and steam coming out of the ground. It was surreal. We took a 2K walk to see the geysers spout off. In fact, the largest goes off several times an hour and shoots 10K in the air but while we were watching it shot in the air at least 30K. We walked past amazing sights. The volcanic activity can be seen throughout the whole valley. Puffs of steam were coming out of the ground just ten feet from where we ate our outdoor lunch. One day, the volcano will blow up, but not today!! We are staying in Taupo, in the Hilton. Lake Taupo was formed by a volcano and is the largest of it's type. So far, we have kept up with the walking although Ken is using a cane. Soon tonight, we will have a wonderful dinner in the hotel. Evidently, it is the best restaurant in town.