Sunday 5th
At last a quiet day with just 100km to drive. A tad of a lie in before a visit to Taupo and a bit of shopping for the Tongariro Crossing tomorrow. It is 19km but the graph of ascent is virtually overhanging. However, OF1 now has an orange and white beanie and we both have neck scarf thingies that you can convert to a hat and 20 other things (but not a coffee machine). Oh, and a map but it may well be wall-to-wall walkers as the forecast is good.
We also picked up a hitch hiker. We have been joined by Kiwi Kevin (pronounced "Kivin") who is sweet natured and will be a great addition to the team. He features in today's photo.
It was a very pleasant drive; firstly along the shores of Lake Taupo then into the mountains. There are three in a row:
Mount Ngauruhoe - active volcano and used as Mount Doom in 'Lord of the Rings' and a parasitic cone of:
Mount Tongariro - our destination tomorrow (well just under the summit), plus the highly photogenic..
Mount Ruapehu - snow covered all year and ski resort in winter
We are currently ensconced in Piper's Lodge which is a cross between a ski lodge and mountain hut. We have an ensuite but there are plenty of dorms as well. It is large and comfortable in a relaxed, tatty, wooden ceilings and walls way. There are 3 hot tubs and as we left the bar/lounge area the big screen was being pulled down to show Australia V NZ cricket. We are in the confusingly named village of National Park with superb alpine views blue sky and hot sun.
So we are on carbs loading tonight before a 6:15am breakfast and transport to the start. As it is a one way walk the transport collects you at the other end as well. Thus is is an early night (Kivin is kipping in the car) as we prepare to follow in the footsteps of Frodo.....
If two old farts survive then there will be a tired update tomorrow (or the next day if too knackered). If not, look after Kevin.
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