Rotura to Hawkes Bay

It's Monday morning and our week in Rotorua is complete.  We pack up the car and resume our journey south.  Our destination is Hastings in Hawkes Bay, approximately a three hour drive.

Along the Thermal Explorer Highway we stop for gas at a unique establishment.  Of course there's the gas pumps out front, but in an adjoining building they also commercially process and package Arataki honey.  The large honey vats are out back with one bee hive in front for demonstrations.  An interesting combo of businesses.

Since our check-in time is 3-4 pm we are in no hurry.  We stop at the Lava Glass Blowing Studio and Cafe for coffee and to check out their creations.  The vases and other products are very beautiful (and expensive).

Farther down the highway is Huka Falls, one of New Zealand's most popular parks.  Entry to the park is free and it is a very easy walk to the falls.  The Waikato River narrows from 100 meters across into a 15 meter canyon than drops 11 feet formIng Huka Falls.  A perfect 30 minute stop to stretch our legs and see some of nature's beauty in action.

Back in the car we drive another hour south to Waipunga Falls.  Without Google Maps we would have completely missed this short turn off of Highway 5.  There is a nice gravel parking lot/observation point.  Closer to the highway there appear to be trails leading to the falls, but we don't need to do a bush walk today.

We arrive in Hastings and make our way to our next home (for the week).  We have rented a poolhouse/nanny suite behind a main house via BookaBach.  It is true to it's description and photo's on the Bookabach website.  It includes two living/kitchen spaces, a master bedroom and a second bedroom.  They've also tucked a single bed into an alcove.  Outside we have the view (and use) of the pool and chairs along a covered porch.  There's also a covered patio next to the pool.  This will be a pleasant place to stay for the next week.