Ok, it’s not exactly recently we went to NZ, in fact it was on the Christmas of 2009, whew that’s so
long ago already 🙂 But I feel like I had to include this in my blog to chronicle all my travels and before I will make another trip to Australia’s sister country, even wayyy down under.
We flew in directly to Rotorua airport and stayed in Wyndham resort, what can I say I’m a loyal Wyndham owner 🙂 Beware when you enter the town as the whole town stinks like a rotten egg haha. It’s because of the geothermal activity that is largely present, don’t worry it only takes a minute without breathing while riding in a car, just be ready for it. We only went to 4 major activities in one week stay in Rotorua aside from eating in the cafes and shopping of course.
This is the major reason why people come to Rotorua, it’s an adrenaline pumping and goose bumping adventure. The gondola ride that takes you from the bottom of the hill to the top where the other rides await while enjoying the scenic view is worth the trip alone. Of course everyone in my travel party did this and some of us only did the Luge. The luge is a part go-cart, part toboggan with full rider control over speed and direction and with handle bars to slow down or stop. The ride going down in a sweeping bends of the Scenic Track through the Redwoods Forest is exhilarating. After a stunning chair-lift ride back to the top, the Intermediate and Advanced tracks await. Once is never enough. I was so scared to try this until I saw a mum with a toddler, so I did it too with one of my little boys, so fun I tell you. I would have regretted it if I chickened out 🙂
To be honest, I’m not a big fan of LOTR but when you’re in north island of NZ a journey to the middle earth is a must at least once in your life haha. At that time we were there, this was a huge franchise. Although, we were not so impressed with the set location as it was plain back then and there was sheep’s poo everywhere (yikes!) we still didn’t regret it. There is a Shire Store next to the Shire’s Rest café to hang out while waiting for the bus that takes you to Hobitton. And yes, I got the LOTR Location Guidebook with a signature of Ian Brodie. Hobbiton is in Matamata which is an hour winding drive from Rotorua. Don’t worry, the beautiful terrain and hill views will entertain your eyes.
Thank you for reading, ’til next post. You can connect me in Instagram busyandfab to see my fab finds, other outfits and events in between posts. For the 2 more destinations please see Things to do in New Zealand north island Part 2.
