25th August - Luge-ing and the Tamaki Village

Just a quick one today as we are filling up this blog rapidly, and I have to write three of these now as I am behind. So please bear in mind my supposed past tense might not be grammatically correct.

We are currently (lies I know, just go with it) still in Rotorua. The place still smells like sulphur but that is understandable as it is pretty much on top of volcanic springs and such, but it isn't that enjoyable. Anyway, we headed out to the Mountains to do a spot of Luge-ing. We took a gondola ride up to the top where Liz and I hired two suspect looking sledges for a one way trip to the bottom. All a lot of fun and frolics. We then got the ski lift back up and the pictures resemble us looking like idiots with our hats on.

The World mountain bike championchips were taking place at the same time on the same hill as the luge so we got a good look at that too.
After that we headed back into Rotorua for a spot of internet and coffee time, then picked up some souvenirs.

In the evening we had booked a trip to go see the Tamaki Village, a recreation of an ancient Maori village. Though overly touristy, we did get to see and learn a lot of Maori customs and traditions and dance. I was a bit deturbed by the 'all hold hands and sing' moments but took solice in the awesome buffet that was available. We also got to see some more Haka.

We have to leave tomorrow, so off to have a few beers with Chris before we pack up.

Laters

Pricey