Waitomo, Waikato, New ZealandPretty drive from the coast through the scenic reserves on Hwy 3 north.
Otorohanga: Kiwi House and Native Bird Park
Anxious to see the brown kiwi bird up close. Because they are nocturnal, their nests were in dark rooms. Saw two birds, also their feeding. It was raining and they were very active. A "keeper" talked about each individual animal.
Lots of other endangered birds. Nice walk through the large dom aviary.
Worthwhile stop; probably the only way to see the unique looking bird.
Anxious to see the brown kiwi bird up close. Because they are nocturnal, their nests were in dark rooms. Saw two birds, also their feeding. It was raining and they were very active. A "keeper" talked about each individual animal.
Lots of other endangered birds. Nice walk through the large dom aviary.
Worthwhile stop; probably the only way to see the unique looking bird.
WAITOMO TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK campground
Stormed really hard at night. Gusts of wind shook the RV.
Stormed really hard at night. Gusts of wind shook the RV.
3-14: Next morning, about half an hour drive south to
Ruakuri Scenic Reserve walk.
Beautiful forest, limestone outcrops, caves, tunnels, waterfalls, bouncy swinging bridge over the river below. Called it "Lois' Lost World" as we roamed around in the rain. The circuit took about an hour and lead us to the highlight - the Ruakuri Natural Tunnel, a very interesting mix of rushing water, with several underground viewing platforms. GREAT place.
Ruakuri Scenic Reserve walk.
Beautiful forest, limestone outcrops, caves, tunnels, waterfalls, bouncy swinging bridge over the river below. Called it "Lois' Lost World" as we roamed around in the rain. The circuit took about an hour and lead us to the highlight - the Ruakuri Natural Tunnel, a very interesting mix of rushing water, with several underground viewing platforms. GREAT place.
2025-05-22