So we moved on reluctantly from Rotorua (the weather turned sky blue, and it would have been a great day to bike in the Redwoods). We drove a GPS suggested route over some smallish roads, with great scenery, to Waitomo. We toured the main cave - oo'd and ah'd at the glow worms, and headed for New Plymouth. That route had spectacular scenery - gorges through volcanic mountains.
In New Plymouth, we stayed at Shoestrings backpackers, 48 Lemon Street. Another hit! It is an older house, with high ceilings, and some lovely antiques. And more friendly people.
We had dinner at Arborio, next to the I-centre in town, and recommended by Lonely Planet. Great food. We had a Monteith's beer (NZ), and two different pizzas. The one I really liked was chicken, spinach, red pepper, and fried red onion, served with a chili lime mascarpone in the middle, added as a garnish after baking. YUM! And some left over for lunch!
Thanks for the contact Eric....... I love NZ!! Hope you get to Lake Taupo. If you have energy you can hike up the Waikato River to Huka Falls and to Craters of the Moon. It's a fair distance - nearly killed my dau Maureen and I, but cemented our friendship forever. Should have told you to visit the McDonalds in Aukland to see the most beautiful Maori carved wood panels. Anyway - you will have a great time I know.
ReplyDeleteLiz