We were packing up to leave New Plymouth when our hosts strolled over to farewell us. “Here”, said John holding out a small package, “have this smoked salmon for your 4zees today”. Yesterday was his birthday and John had smoked a whole salmon and a trout for the family birthday meal. The meal also included whitebait fritters and paua, so it would have been quite a tasty spread. How very generous of them to share some of that delicious fish with us. We said our goodbyes, thanked them for their hospitality and set off on our journey. Muffy was ready and waiting, already strapped into the car for her next adventure on the road.
Muffy is all set to go
Our journey took us northwards along SH3 and up and over Mt Messenger. Get your camera ready, I was told, there is a tunnel coming up. Sure enough, there was a tunnel at the top, carved out of solid rock, rather like the tunnel on the Forgotten World Highway. We went through another similar rock tunnel as we drove along the Awakino Gorge.
Tunnel at the top of Mt Messenger
Turning off at 8 Mile Junction our journey continued up and down one hill after another, so it was rather slow driving. But the scenery was pretty, and I hummed along to the well known songs on our CDs, all oldies but goodies. 285kms later we arrived at our destination, the NZMCA site at Taupo, adjacent to the airport. Caravans and motor-homes were parked here and there on the extensive grounds, and groups of campers were sitting outside in the warm sunny weather socializing together.
Eileen and Geoff arrived soon after and joined us for a cuppa and crackers topped with some of that delicious smoked salmon, while we caught up with each other’s news. They had been visiting family in Auckland over the last week, while we had been busy exploring New Plymouth. There is no power available here and Taupo can get very chilly overnight. Luckily we have a diesel heater on board, but there is no chance of warming up the bed with my electric blanket.
On site at Taupo
We will have a look around town tomorrow and perhaps do a little exploring. Campers have told us that the Airport Cafe not only does nice coffee, but also big breakfasts – we will have to check that out too, no doubt. Let's see what tomorrow brings.
View from the camp, with lake Taupo in the distance
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