Tube train on the tree
We got up early on Christmas morning to drive down to the Tongariro National Park in the volcanic centre of the north island. Here, we started our walk with packs bulging with 4 days of provisions, clothes and sleeping bags.
Mt Ruapehu still with snow on the top
Our first day was a short 4 hour walk to the Mangatepopo hut. We arrived about 5pm and had time to relax before making our freeze-dried Christmas dinner! Gareth enjoyed reading his Kindle with Mt Ngauruhoe (aka Mt Doom in the Lord of the Rings films) above.
We didn't want to miss out, so still managed to enjoy Christmas pud and cream in the evening!
Day 2 of our walk is known as the 'Tongoriro Alpine Crossing' and according to New Zealand tourism is one of the greatest one-day walks in the world. The walk includes active volcanoes, a cold mountain spring, lava flows, an active crater, steam vents, emerald-coloured lakes and magnificent views. Thankfully, the boxing day weather was glorious so we could see the amazing views all around us!
Climbing up to the saddle
South Crater and Mt Ngauruhoe
Heading down to the Emerald Lakes
A steep descent with full pack and volcanic sand
Boxing day lunch by the Emerald Lakes
Panoramic view of the Blue Lake
Panoramic view back to Mt Ngauruhoe and red crater
Relaxing at the Ketetahi hut
Day 3 started off in beautiful sunshine. We made an early start as the forecast wasn't looking good for later in the day.
Bags ready to go
Morning tea time
Surveying the volcanic valley we were about to descend in to
After many hours of walking, we reached some bush - a welcome break from the strong sunshine and wind
We reached the Waihohonu hut by mid-afternoon. Just enough time for a swim in the river before the weather changed. We spent the evening reading and playing cards, and considering our options if the forecast storm arrived.
Day 4 of the tramp was a completely different experience. As forecast, a storm arrived creating 130km/h gale force winds and fast-flowing swollen rivers to cross. Needless to say, we didn't take many photos...it was head down and get to the end!
Thankfully, we made it safe and sound....even if our boots did take 4 days to dry out! We spent that evening eating "real food" in National park village and set off the next morning towards Napier. We couldn't resist a quick stop in Ohakune (the Carrot capital of NZ!).
We filled up the car with Mt Ruapehu in the background - what a different day to 24 hours previously!
Rather than take the main highway to Napier, we decided to take the scenic route, named the 'Gentle Annie' across the mountains. Most of the road is sealed now, so there was only about 20km on gravel. We passed a lovely old swing bridge with a little camping site below....probably too far for us to come for a weekend trip for Auckland though.
Before arriving at out accommodation in Napier, we passed many vineyards, so couldn't resist sampling a few wines.
Sileni Estate vineyard
The Hawkes Bay area is also known for its gourmet food...including ice cream. Perfect for a hot sunny day!
How nice it was to arrive at our apartment and enjoy a meal overlooking the sea with a bottle of local wine!
In the 1930s, Napier was rebuilt because of a devastating earthquake. This was the era of Art Deco, so many of the buildings are styled this way.
Napier was a wonderful city to just potter around...
Stained glass in the cathedral
Art on marine parade
Powerful waves
Colourful fountains
On New Year's eve, we went to the Church Road vineyard to enjoy a bottle of their Sauvignon Blanc and play a few games of petanque.
As we were finishing our last game, we received a call from Sarah and Mike to say that they were in town after their motorbike trip around the cape. Perfect timing to celebrate the start of 2011 together. We started the evening with pink bubbly on the deck, had dinner in the city and watched fireworks at midnight as bagpipes played.
On New Year's Day, the four of us hired bikes and cycled around markets, vineyards and cheese factories. Might as well start the year off as we intend it to continue!
(wise words!)
Better watch out on these pathways
As we left Napier on our way up to Rotorua, we couldn't help but visit our final vineyard, which we'd heard good things about. Moana Park was probably our favourite of all the places we visited, so we then had to find room in the boot for a few more bottles!
To break up the trip back home, we stopped off for a night in Rotorua, relaxing in the Polynesian Spa and Gareth managed a morning run in the Redwoods.
So, all in all, it was a perfect holiday! Escaping from work and the city with 4 days walking allowed us to switch off completely, before relaxing and enjoying wonderful food and wine in Napier!
Happy New Year everyone!
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