Tarawera and old friends

Last Thursday morning was another lovely day in the land of the long white cloud, and our first mission was to call into a very large camping and outdoor store we saw, between Hyacinth and Richard's place and Rotorua. We were looking for something for a certain 3 yr old grandson. What an incredible store, and after accomplishing our mission with a purchase, we found the staff to have a great deal of knowledge, so we took their advice and drove towards the Blue Lake and Lake Tarawera. Our first stop was Lake - aka Blue Lake (below)

Kev always lines up his ducks!

We then came across the Buried Village - amazing story really - where a violent and unexpected volcanic eruption of Mount Tarawera during the early hours of June 10, 1886, was New Zealand's greatest natural disaster. Over 150 people died during which 4 hours of rocks, ash and mud bombarded the peaceful village of Te Wairoa. As well as the ending of so many lives and livelihoods, the eruption destroyed what was known as the eighth wonder of the world - the magnificent Pink and White Terraces. These Terraces were obviously so special, as people travelled from around the world to see them - normally taking 3 months for a return trip from the UK.

These tall poplar trees below grew from young cut fence posts

Lake Tarawera - looking across to Mount Tarawera and where the devastation in 1886 happened - not your normal Volcano, actually split the mountain apart - so there were many mini volcanoes.

We decided to share a Ceasar Salad at the Lake Tarawera "Landing Cafe"

Very good Ceasar!

Lake Tarawera, with Mount Tarawera in the background, and Australia's not so popular import - the black swan.

Overlooking Lake and Mount Tarawera

Rotorua - Museum and Old Baths

There is an explanation for the photo Kev took below - in front of this wonderful building are quite a few "bowling greens" - yours truly took a short cut (illegally) across one, then was faced with an impossible task of getting down with short legs to the path - so I took the next best option - the lightpole!!

So he takes the photo and runs away!!

The Blue Baths

Would advise anyone who comes to Rotorua to spend time in this wonderful museum!

The Roof with a View

Totem Poles in the gardens

And some interesting sculptures!

Special part of the day was to be invited to friend Sandy's sister's place - Karen and Mark for dinner with another great friend from the flatting days - Col and husband, James, and James's sister Geraldine - lovely barbie - so much food, and great company. Look out for our next reunion in Napier 2010!!!

Karen and Margaret sorting out the garlic and herb bread!!

Kev, James and Frank - not doing a lot - Mark???

Darling Col (old flat mate)