North Island Pokeno to Wellington 2021
Back on the road again said bye-bye to the kids on the farm in Pokeno we will miss you, it was nice to have the time to get to know our grandson.
We had our first water test at Zion Motorhomes Pokeno early in December results were no leaks same with Air Suspension, the front door needed a new part for the central locking and caused a bit of a headache for Zion they were marvellous at finding the solution thanks, guys.
We headed south to spend time in Te Rapa shopping, we found out the difference between Mitre10 and Bunnings it's air conditioning!! such a stinking hot day.
Tonight's park is Lake Ngaroto Te Awamutu
Awesome parking area on the edge of the lake for self-contained vehicles only. Up to 2 consecutive nights stay permitted. On a peaceful day, this site cannot be beaten. It's a little off the beaten track but well worth the journey.
A few interesting things to look at on our walk along the flood banks and back to camp at the other end of town 6km return.
We use to do this walk when it first opened and wondered how they would mow the banks now as they use to graze cattle before the walkway opened not a bad job to have if you love remote controls.
We were amazed at the Heron nesting up near the outside top of the Kiwi house she got up to show herself but I missed a photo now she's peeking out the top watching us, they must be getting a great view from the security camera above.
This afternoon we are heading to Taupo for a few days.
Whakaipo Bay
Arrived yesterday afternoon at the Whakaipo Bay Amenity Area Doc Camp (free parking)
Restrictions: Max. 4 consecutive nights stay in any one calendar month. Designated area for SC only; NO parking on the beachside. NO fires. Lake water only.
We are staying for 4 nights, the weather is great we went for a 5km walk this morning with Jacque and Robin who just happened to be here.
Taupo
Whakaipo Bay
Yesterday after our morning walk and lunch we did halfway on the trail to Kinloch on the bikes, then back for a refreshing swim in the lake.
Today we walked Mapara stream to Tahunatara Point again it was so lovely yesterday in the shade of the trees, then to the other end of the park getting back in time for lunch at the cafe not far from camp with good food and nice garden art.
Taupo
Whakaipo Bay
This morning walk approx 5km through nice bush out to Whakamoenga Point, Robin and Jacque took the short drive keen to show us their favourite spot for a walk and swim jumping off the rocks. On the way back we came across a juvenile shining cuckoo I have never seen one before so was too interested in looking to take a photo but I have put an internet photo for reference below.
Rotopounamu Track
This track circles a beautiful lake surrounded by native forest and is a special favourite of tree lovers, birdwatchers, and families.
5 km loop Walking and tramping 2 hrs return.
We had lunch just up the road at Lake Rotoaira
Then took the short walk to the lake and the Opotaka historical Māori pa site (fortified village) where you can learn about the history of the famous Ka Mate Haka, see the remains of the Māori settlement, and enjoy spectacular views across Lake Rotoaira to Mt Tongariro.
We were intending to stay at NZMCA Turangi but they are working on the park so it is closed, will look forward to staying next time.
