Waitomo Caves and Rotorua



Today we visited the Waitomo Caves – an interesting underground cave that is full of stalactites, stalagmites and glow worms.



In the Aranui Caves



this is what the glow worms look like inside the cave



 

 







 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We then travelled to Rotorua.  Rotorua is famous for its geyers – warm pools of water that are heated by volcanic lava.  In the evening we went to visit the Tamaki Maori Village.  Upon arrival the tribe challenged us – Te Wero – they then present a peace offering – Teka – that is to be received by the visiting chief.  Sean was nominated by our canoe (bus) to be our chief and got to do some traditional events throughout our evening.  We then explored the traditional village and learned about the Maori way of life in years past.  We also got to experience a Hangi – the hangi uses a traditional cooking method where the food (meat and vegetables) are cooked under the earth on hot rocks. The boys had a great night and really enjoyed the experience.   

The boys hanging out with the Maori

Chief Sean

 

Kia Ora (means hello, goodbye, welcome, and have a safe journey)

The Rennies