2006-06-25T15:09:00.000-07:00

We concentrated our trip in the North Island where we spent 3 weeks travelling by car. We found lots of activities and spectacular scenes along the way. By far the best family holiday we have ever experienced

Our drive started in Auckland, and we quickly made our way to Hamilton to greet family.

We set off in a rented car from Hamilton in the direction of Roturua. Our first stop was at the sheep show where sheep, working dogs and cows happily strutted their stuff on stage for our entertainment, and child
ren had the opportunity to milk cows, feed lambs and watch a sheep being sheered. It sounds simple, but provided great fun. We also found a hillside with a strange looking massive plastic ball rolling down every five minutes or so. Upon investigation it became apparent that you could climb inside, sit in a puddle of water and roll down the hill. That was fantastic fun and an active start to the day.

Next stop was five minutes down the road at the jet boat and bungi jump adrenalin shop.

Not only do you get to scream your lungs out, but you can purchase a click by click account of the experience. It was quiet, service was quick and staff were incredibly friendly.

The next stop was at WAI-O-TAPU
geothermal park, where we saw spectacular dispalys of bubbling mud pools and erupting geysers. The weather and scenery was amazing, walking through steaming bright green and orange ponds and rivers, watching steam and heat spurt from the earth's core.

Next stop was Roturua lake, where we spent two days riding the mountain go-carts with spectacular views over the lake.

We stopped at Bridal falls near Raglan, a famous surfing beach, to view the spectacular waterfall. You can climb to the back of the fall and let is just shower on you on a hot summer's day.

In Plymouth, we visited some family who had recently moved from Africa and bought a chicken farm. Below is the view from their back garden.

We were most impressed by the friendliness of the local people, the quality of the accomodation, food and service, and the beauty of the country. We cannot wait to go and visit New Zealand again.

Visit New Zealand