On our way to Taupo we met up with Lette and Tewai at a secret hot pool known only to people with google maps. It is marked as “Hot and Cold”. A hot stream joins a cold stream, hot, cold and everything in-between. We had a yummy soak. Yani came along too.

After that we drove onto Whakaipo Doc reserve and stayed there a couple of nights, exploring, schooling and carving pumice which you find on the beach.  On Wednesday we got a good view of Mt Tongariro, on Thursday it was time to do the crossing!

There were plenty of gypsies keen on the walk so we got up early, crammed into vehicles and drove to the Mangatapopo car park. The track was fantastic. Steep and barren like the moon. It was fun walking with the Gypsies. The Red crater and Emerald lakes were amazing.

We all charged across with no problems. Meanwhile Mum and the boys walked to Mangtapopo hut then drove to the end of the track to shuttle drivers back to the start. By the end of it everyone was foot sore and ready for a soak at Tokaanu hot pools. Then we had Indian in Turangi with Keanau and Julia.

After much debate followed by a vote it was decided to go ahead with the Taupo fair in-spite of a terrible weather forecast. The weather turned out to be terrible and the fair was a flop. However we did have a uproarious end of season party.  Mum and Dad presented us with trophies for all our hard work in our shows.

There were prizes for all the gypsies. The usual dancing and shenanigans took place.

Sunday was a wash out so we high tailed south, heading for Motueka and Steiner school.

That was the end of our third season on the Extravaganza. So many adventures and so much fun! I am so tired I could do with a little rest! Bye!