Lake Taupo

We drove up into the mountains again on our way passing ski fields before reaching The Great Lake Taupo. The lake is so large (the countries largest) that if it wasn't for the snow covered mountains behind it, you would think you were looking out to sea. Taupo is slap in the centre of the North Island. Although the lake was not entirely formed by a volcanic eruption the last 1800 years ago, it did play a big part in its creation.
Taupo is another action packed place. We stayed at a camp site attached to a thermal resort. It was great we spent nearly the whole day in the water. The best part was having your own private spa with water ranging from 37 degrees c to 42 degrees c. The next day we hiked for 20km passing some amazing rapids called Hooker Falls and witnessing a dam being opened creating terrific rapids on the other side. You would not have wanted to fall in the water (you'd have been a goner!!).