Rotorua? Sounds good. But this is not something that one can do in a days trip, so better pack some clothes, this will take the whole weekend. I have been told by several people that there is a lot to see in Rotorua, but it is all pretty much the same, so it might be a good idea to spend a day in Rotorua and then move onto somewhere else. How does this sound?

Leaving very early on Saturday, we can set out for Rotorua, making a stop at Matamata to see the Hobbiton movie set from the Lord of the Rings movie. We should be in Rotorua then hopefully before 12pm, so that we have enough time to explore Rotorua. There is a hell of a lot to do there and see, so we have to pick out carefully what we want to do together.

On Sunday we leave Rotorua early enough, and head for Mount Maunganui and Tauranga. The town of Mt Maunganui (the name means ‘large mountain’) stands at the foot of the 232m hill of the same name. It’s just across the inlet from Tauranga and its fine beaches make it a popular holiday resort for Kiwis. Walking trails go around Mt Maunganui and to its top, where there are magnificent views. The Walk around gives you a great view of the stony coast around the mountain and the awesome water with sailors. It takes about 45 minutes. Climbing the mountain is steep but almost worth a great view and takes about 90minutes.

Tauranga is the principal city of the Bay of Plenty and one of the largest export ports in NZ, shipping out the produce of the rich surrounding region. The area is still thriving economically and draws increasing numbers of retirees, attracted by the temperate climate and a city well endowed with facilities. Because of the port and its business, it is not as nice as Mt Maunganui, the tourist attractions are limited to the beaches and headland scenery of Mt Maunganui.