Lake Okareka-Whakarewarewa-Lake Rotorua-Tauranga-Mount Maunganui-Athenree

29.02.2020

I started my day by visiting the Maori village Whakarewarewa (you can see the correct name in the picture). It was very interesting to learn about their traditions and beliefs. The houses and surroundings emit sulfur vapor, which is used for cooking. They also performed a traditional dance called the Haka. Then I had a traditional meal called hangi pie, which is a pastry filled with chicken, beef, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and corn. It was delicious. Afterward, I went to Lake Rotorua, a small and beautiful lake. Then I traveled to Tauranga to explore the city and hiked up Mount Maunganui for 2 hours. The view from the top was breathtaking, overlooking the beach, city, and ocean. There was a junior surfing competition happening, which was fun to watch. Tauranga is my favorite city on the North Island so far. I stayed overnight at the Athenree camping ground in Athenree, which had refreshing hot pools. It was amazing.