Taupo to Blue Duck Lodge

Most people were hungover today as we had travelled from the Marae to stay at Lake Taupo. What was suppose to be a quiet quiz night ended up as crazy karaoke! So many An out90's classics were screamed out, back street boys, spice girls, oa There if focus on educating visitors about sis and Greese of course! Whilst travelling to Taupo, we went through Rotorua. It was her that in the rain we were able to see the geothermal hot pools which was pretty cool, and even more cooler if you are a geography teacher! as it rained the muddy pools exploded and popped, crackled and tossed bits of mud into the air. The area has been nicknamed 'sulphur city' because evrywher you go here smells of rotten eggs! Delicious!

We travelled for about 3.5 hours until we reached Blue Duck Lodge. This was an incredibly beautiful place a huge farm which was comitted to sustainable development of the area and the surrounding forests and the protection and conservation of the beautiful blue duck. This duck is endemic to New Zealand and there are just 1400 pairs left, 10 of which can be found on the grounds of the lodge. The area offers a range of activities from hunting to horse trecking. A group of us opted for a nice hike to a waterfall while others got involved in the chasing of goats or te riding of horses. We all stayed in fabulous wooden chalets and there was a great fire in teh communal area. The owners put on a movie night but we opted to listen to music (by Passenger), drink wine and have a good old chat! The owners are extremely passionate about what they are trying to achieve which is fantastic. There is a focus on educating visitors about the importance of preserving the local flora and fauna. The horse treckers had returned fairly wet and dirty as it had been a pretty miserable day weather wise, and unfortunately one of the huntes, i wont name her! (Miss B) had returned from a pretty grusome hunting experience where i think more blood was coming out of her forehead than the animal she had attempted to shoot! we luckily were able to laugh it off and enjoyed the turkey and old goat which had been captured that day! Our walk had consistedof beautiful birds, fantails and parakeets and a beautiful kingfisher. The evening consisted of a camp fire , beverages and for me an earlyish night! A very chilled place, an outdoor enthusiasts playground. If you get the chance then GO!