We have a relatively easy day today – if you call a 2.5 hour walk easy! We drive to Lake Rotopounamu, park up and set off on our walk through a forest full of mature Rimu, Matai and Miro trees. The name of the lake comes from the Māori words ‘roto’ (lake) and ‘pounamu’ (greenstone). Although it isn’t overly clear from the photos, the lake really does have the colours of pounamu (greenstone). It is a glorious walk. We are surrounded by only the sound of the birds and the wind. About half way, there is a little beach, Long Beach, and we decide to sit and have our lunch here. It is so peaceful. I see some new plants – might have a new favourite fern – and a kaka. Such a special bird to see. Not bothered by us at all, far to busy looking for grubs! What a wonderful walk this was.

On the way home, Don surprises me with a stop at Tokaanu Hot Pools. Unfortunately the public pools are closed but we can have a private pool if we like – yes please! We have a 25 minute soak in the thermal hot pool with it’s natural hot mineral water straight from the hot spring. It is heavenly after our walk. Outside and running around the complex is a Thermal Walkway https://www.lovetaupo.com/en/scenic-attractions/tokaanu-thermal-walk/ Oh my, what a treat! There is a notice at the start of the walk – see photos. As we carefully keep to the path, the earth gurgles and splutters around us. Steam seeps out of the ground and mud plop, plops away. There is one which is particularly loud and giving us a whiff of sulphur! Some of the springs are dark and foreboding, others, crystal clear and oh so inviting! What a super end to the days activities – not bad considering is was going to be restful!