Ohakune

  Palmerston North, New Zealand
Friday, October 24, 2003

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Tuesday 21st October

After a good night's sleep, woke to a beautiful sunny morning. Legs aching from yesterday but breathtaking views of the volcanoes inspired us to do some more hiking. Walked to Taranaki falls where a group of schoolchildren were abseiling. Yet another stunning waterfall.
After all the uphill walking we were happy to see a flyer advertising 17km downhill bike ride on the mountain road, "no fitness required". Unfortunately we couldn't get in touch with the organiser but undeterred we hired a bike from the nearby town of Ohakune and took it in turns cycling down the scenic mountain road then drove the bike back uphill again, great fun!

Coincidentally happened to also be a Lord of the Rings location (no wonder Mike was so keen), saw waterfall pool where gollum was captured.
Drove to Wanganui to camp.

Wednesday 22nd October

Given list of local atractions by campsite guy and first on list was a rope swing over the Wanganui river. There was an old couple trying to fish for whitebait at the site but they allowed us to use the swing if we "weren't long".
Next, climbed tower (WW1 memorial tower) on hill for great views over the city and first glimpse of the South Island-distant mountains on the horizon.
Went to the art gallery where there was a really interesting collection of works by previously undiscovered and untrained local artists.
Drove to Palmerston North for evening.

Thursday 23rd October

Went on riverside walk in Palmerstone north starting off in Victoria Esplanade park.

Another walk starting from the University campus brought us through pine forests and rolling farmland before returning to suburbia again all within the space of a few hours.
Drove to Otaki Beach and had evening stroll on beach to watch sunset. Dark sand beach embedded with white shells. There were lots of people strolling, surfing and riding horses. Beat Mike at table tennis back at the campsite.
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