A rainy birthday

The rain pelts the car roof, signaling a rainy birthday. Instead of muesli with fruit, we have blueberry muffins for breakfast on this special day. Thanks to the nutritious mix of the muffins, one is enough for us until lunchtime. We head to the Volcanic Activity Centre and briefly refresh our knowledge about volcanoes, earthquakes, and what else happens beneath the Earth's surface. After a thrilling ride in the earthquake simulator, we need some sustenance. Fortunately, we are prepared and treat ourselves to the best burgers in town to celebrate the day. We couldn't have done it any better.

Afterwards, we continue driving through the rain to Rotorua. The sun is hiding here as well. But various weather apps and Google give us hope. From tomorrow on, our last week in New Zealand will be accompanied exclusively by the sun. We think: we deserve it!!!

Due to the bad weather, our route for the North Island is all mixed up. We postpone the Tongariro Track, originally planned as a birthday hike, to the end of the week and head to the beaches in the north first. From a planning perspective, it doesn't make sense, but since we absolutely want to do the Tongariro, we are willing to drive hundreds of kilometers more. Heaven forbid the weather doesn't cooperate again...