Natch, as compared to the day before it was a gorgeous day and I bet they had a gorgeous hike. (I suspected I would remember mine more than they would remember theirs though.)
the only kiwi I saw the whole trip,
Ngauruhoe in the background -
which I could not see the day before!
which I could not see the day before!
Pieke had recommended a few stops along the way, which I gladly indulged in.
Lake Taupo vista point
Huka Falls turned out to be beautiful but quite touristy so I opted for a side walk from the main strip. Along the way there were lovely views and lookout points.
Spa Park walk - population: me
Continuing north I stopped off for coffee with an attitude...
I agree!
... followed by a quick visit to Cornwall Park in Auckland. My intention was to finally see One Tree Hill to pay homage to the tale I'd heard where a Maori chopped the latest tree down in protest to the monument ("this is in honor of a dying culture? our culture is not dying, thank you very much, and now I shall chop down your monument" - my words, legend sentiment).
But in the short time I had, I never did find it. Instead I wandered among the tall trees and lovely flowers in the amazing old park for a bit...
not One Tree Hill
... and then headed to Auckland airport to end my three-week adventure. What a fantastic trip, and I am so grateful that I could share it with good friends.
farewell for now, New Zealand
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