Turangi- Sunday

We were rudely (and loudly!) woken at 7am this morning by the town siren blaring! Thankfully, we all managed to drift back to sleep and didn’t surface again until 9am. It was a cool start to the day — about 11 degrees — definitely a jeans and jersey kind of morning.

Today’s adventures kicked off with a visit to the Tongariro National Trout Centre, and it was absolutely worth it! We got to see native rainbow trout at every stage of life — from tiny eggs to wriggly toddlers to full-grown behemoths. The whole place is tucked between lush native bush and the fast-flowing Tongariro River, and we were serenaded by tui feasting on the kowhai blossoms in full bloom.

Feeding the trout was such fun — they leapt right out of the water for the pellets, splashing us in their excitement!

Back “home,” Karen whipped up some cheese and garlic scones (delicious!) before heading off for a relaxing soak in the Tokaanu mineral pools. Neil said this was a favourite Turner family stop back in the day, especially after a trip to the snow — and I can see why!Read more