Cycling day..yay.

We pick up our bikes as the rain gives us a brief respite.
The owner gives us safety instructions and a route map.

Our bikes are "assisted" meaning that, a small motor helps you as you struggle to pedal uphill for example.
The assistance can be set at various levels, up to Turbo, not easy to stop when that bad boy is engaged!

1st stop Huka falls, the track is muddy and uneven as we venture further off road.

This is me auditioning for a part in "Call the midwife".

At one point we are diverted from the cycle track to avoid tree felling, onto an area of slimey concrete, resulting in a colourful bruised leg and a bit of road rash for me, no harm done to the bike you will be pleased to note.
We arrive back at base very wet & muddy, so back to the hotel for showers.

Next stop the thermal wonders of Wai-O-Tapu.
One of the most active areas in New Zealand.

The Thermal pools boast a variety of noxious substances bubbling away ""The devils Ink pots".

Our old friend Sulphur, perfumes this giant primrose coloured lake.

The vivid lime green of this pool, changes colour to reflect the colours of the sky.
The whole area is formed around a super volcano, deep underground.

Back at the Reef Lodge, we experience our own spa pool of heated water...Once again accompanied by driving rain.

Dinner in the No1 China Restaurant, most of the menu was unfamiliar, but we found a couple of dishes we fancied.

Goodnight dear reader, sleep well wherever you are.. xxx