As middle age sets in, I’ve rejoiced in letting go of the usual sense of social FOMO. There are always parties to be missed, and I’m usually happy with where I am. But New Zealand offers the ultimate NATURE FOMO. Everywhere you look there is something incredible to do or see, forcing choices at every turn.
In Taupo, it was no different.
After a delicious brunch at a local bakery, we set off for the spa thermal park. We took a long hike up the Waikato river to Huka falls…
Waded in Otumuheke thermal pools along the edge of the park.
And tossed the football among the fall leaves…
We were eager to get to our airbnb on Lake Taupō, but I saw we would pass the magical Waihora lagoon with beautiful reflections of the massive Rimu trees in a quiet rain forest. It was supposed to be “on the way” to our place on the lake, but 40 min later Trae was navigating a winding, deteriorating, dirt, country road until we discovered…a dry empty field. Photo of the “lagoon” and 3 good attitudes:
Needless to say, we didn’t get to our place until after dark - disappointed we’d missed the view.
So I set an alarm to get up with the sunrise…and I was greeted by the most surprising and beautiful bird party this morning!
It sounded like a million birds of a million different types were rising to greet the day with me. Some grunted, some whistled. Our favorite is the Tui bird who sounds like R2D2 - it can be heard at the end of this recording (sound on).
Too much to see in our short time. But feeling really special to have attended this party in particular. - Kim
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