Such a sad day in New Zealand today after the reality of the massacre in the 2 mosques in Christchurch is found out.

Our hotel is next to the Islamic Centre in Taupo. As we set off there were already several bouquets of flowers outside. When we returned there was a garden of tributes laid there.

We travelled round the east side of the lake and on route 47 to Whakapapa ski field. We were here 3 years ago and then we went up the ski lifts right to the top of the volcano. This year it is no longer in operation. There are major works going on up there in the ski village and improvements being made and no ski runs. The visibility wasn’t too great this morning but I managed to get a few shots of the volcanic rocks and skylines. It is a bleak but fascinating environment. The vegetation gradually dies away as you ascend up the road.

Do you like the steaming hillsides?

We went to the visitors centre in the National Park and then called back at Turangi. (We stayed at Turangi 3 years ago)

Back in Taupo there are lots of sports and races going on. Yacht racing and Ironmauri.

Many many motorbikers passed us on the way round the lake. That was scary…… and noisy! Is this a Saturday thing I wonder?

Before I stop writing I forgot to show what we met on the road over to Taupo from Napier. 2 houses being moved along the road ….incredible!

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