Thursday, December 24, 2015

Kia Ora North Island

Paradise found! Stunning scenery, amazing yet healthy food - If South Island is supposed to be even prettier than North Island, I really can't imagine what it can be like, and I certainly will go see it for myself. The 'little' road incident aside, this has been a nature lover's dream... from the 19.4km Tongariro Alpine crossing hike, our drives and cruise in the Coromandel Peninsula, my solo exploration at Rotorua and Waitomo, and most spectacular of all - 'the Shire'.... couldn't ask for more in a short 6 day trip. Believe it - NZ really lives up to the hype.



The start of the mighty Tongariro Crossing Trek


In search of Mount Doom


Spectacular Green Lakes with Snow


On the way down with Lake Taupo in the horizon


Spectacular coastal scenery in the Coromandel Peninsula


Seascape dotted with tiny little Islands


Cathedral Cove from our sea expedition


Artist's Palette at Waiotapu


Beautifully clear pools at Whakarewarewa Redwoods Park


Beautiful Hobbiton, the highlight of the trip


Fanboy's dream - the peaceful Shire