Relaxing in Rotorua

What a great day's ride we had yesterday!  Yes, it was hilly, but I don't think there's anything flat about this country, but no big hills.  And somehow, we managed to sneak in those climbs that you don't really notice while you're doing them ( well, not much) but put together , it turns into a thrilling, twisty, turny downhill joyride.  Most people in our group have now learned to pass me on the downhills since I am that cyclist who actually brakes on the downhill instead of going flat out.

I am starting to realize how riding here is challenging but not in the way riding through Africa was.  Drivers are mainly courteous, Internet works(!) there are washing machines at every motel we stay at, toilets flush and showers have hot water - sometimes scalding like here in Rotorua with all the geothermal action beneath us.  So our big concerns are covering up from the sun and getting the riding done.  Simple and satisfying!  However, it is a little more difficult to make this blog as interesting....every post could be "long ride, stunning scenery, great stops along the way for delicious food and coffee, interesting town to stay in".  But I resolve to find something interesting for every blog post to keep you readers entertained!

Yesterday we arrived in Rotorua and heard there was to be a free concert in the park across the street from the motel - with the Auckland Philharmonic, various Kiwi singers and entertainers and what a fine night of music it was.  We sat on the grass and poked fun at the people we saw wearing down jackets, but at the intermission we had to go back to the motel for extra layers!  The grand finale was a pretty fine fireworks extravaganza, which we enjoyed lying on the grass gazing up at the Southern Cross and the almost-full moon.  Today, our rest day activity was a drive with Vince and Lindsay ( our Kiwi friends organizing this great tour) and a few others to a geothermal river, where we had a swim and soak and my silver bracelet turned quite dark.  That can be fixed though, and we followed that up with a coffee and meat pie stop - Wayne had a mussel pie and I went with the more traditional beef.  Meat pies are ubiquitous here!

Coming up, we have a six day stretch before our stop in Wellington, so that means quite a few kilometres to cover.  It certainly helps having a shower, a bed and good food to make the way easier.  Now it's time to enjoy a glass of Wayne's sister's friend Megan's wine - local goodness!