Derek's New Zealand Blog 2012

Sunday 5th February

Gisborne to Rotorua

Left Gisborne and continued on State Highway 35 towards East Cape. Very windy road with steep gradients at times. Drizzle soon after leaving which meant that Chris had to drive even more carefully in potentially slippery conditions. Very picturesque scenery especially around Tokomaru Bay.

Early Start, Gisborne, Highway 35

Highway 35 near Tatapouri Point

Towards Tolaga Bay & Te Karaka Point

When we reached Araroa, the question of a trip to the lighthouse at East Cape was considered. I studied the map and concluded that a round trip of approximately 50Km on gravel road would take much longer than we had spare time. We agreed that a photo of the East Cape from Haupara Point would surffice.

Horoera Point near East Cape from Haupara Point

Drove past the gravel road to the East Cape and stopped at the Lookout on Haupara Point near Hicks Bay. Tried to walk through the thick bush to the summit, but the small path from the Lookout was very small and steep so it soon petered out.

Hicks Bay from Haupara Point

Continued along coast with occasional glimpses of White Island, an active volcano, then also Major Island and as we approached Whakatane, Motuhora Island was prominent on the skyline. More fantastic scenery on the west coast of East Cape. Road very twisted with steep gradients in many places, adding to the experience. Sometimes crossing river estuaries at about sea level and other times over mountain passes of a thousand feet (over 300 metres) or more.

White Island from near Te Kaha Point

Raukokora River near Papatea

Stopped for lunch on Wharekura Point and near Waiotahi Beach to watch fishermen and women shell fish fishing. Another stretch of the legs at Ohope Beach. Walked along the beach watching the wildlife. Spotted an Oyster Catcher sauntering along the beach on the edge of the tide. Also found a Tom Tom Pole washed up on the beach. Thinking about it at the time and since, it was probably a washed up tree trunk that the local artist has converted into a Tom Tom Pole.

Shell Fish Fishing near Waiotahi Beach

Greater Black Backed Gull on Ohope Beach

Oyster Catcher Sauntering on Ohope Beach

Sculptured Driftwood on Ohope Beach

Drove into Whakatane to see a fishing friend of Chris's, Rick Pollard. Unfortunately Rick and his fishing boat, Pursuit, were out fishing, so Chris missed seeing his old mate. We had a look around the other fishing boats, then continued on to Rotorua on Highway 30.

Fishing Boat in Whakatane Harbour

Passed the impressive Putauaki Hill from Highway 30. At first I thought it was Mount Tongariro near Taupo, then I realised the hill was much nearer and smaller. Passed several hot spring sites en route, we could smell the sulphur. Stopped for provisions as we entered Rotorua, then looked for the 'Top 10' caravan site, near Kuirau Park.

Pukeko in Kuirua Park, Rotoma

After refreshments we strolled around Kuirua Park and visited the thermal area. I was surprised how many hot springs there were and how varied they were.

Hot Spring in Kuirua Park, Rotoma

Hot Spring in Kuirua Park, Rotoma

Derek at Hot Spring Pool in Kuirua Park

Hot Spring in Kuirua Park, Rotoma

Hot Spring in Kuirua Park, Rotoma

Hot Spring in Kuirua Park, Rotoma

After our stroll around Kuirau Park we returned to the Caravan Park and changed for a dip in the Hot Mineral Pool. It was so good to relax and natter with the other occupants, we stayed until it was dark.

Hot Spring in Kuirua Park, Rotoma

22 degrees C, 80% Cloud

Drizzle am, Fine pm

Windy at times

10% Rain