Monday, June 06, 2005

Rotorua/Taupo

Visited over the weekend two lakeside towns: Rotorua and Taupo. Of the two Rotorua is more touristic, with spas scattered around and geothermal activities quite strong. Taupo has a larger lake, very clean and serene with a strong wind. I like Taupo much better. From there I could see the snow-capped Tongariro. The roads are fantastic. But looking at all the meadows with sheep, cows, and sika deers (yes, they are the Japanese shika, bread to be consumed as venison), one is constantly reminded that this island has gone through the total destruction of forests in only 150 years where Europe took 2000. Sad, sad landscape...

Today 6 June is a public holiday in NZ (Queen's Birthday). But in Australia and the UK, this is celebrated a week from now. Why this shoud be so I don't know. Anyway, happy birthday to Elizabeth (or Liz, Eliza, Beth, whatever).