A different place each night? I’ll say one thing: my time in the North Island has been busy… and did I mention there was a lot of driving? But no matter, I’m nearing the end now and I’ve been inching closer to Auckland each day in preparation for my final run home.

Holding on for dear life while striking a pose? Not as easy as it looks

A trip to the north wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Rotorua so naturally I booked myself into the most expensive spa in town for a soak in the hot springs and a massage. This is somewhat mitigated by the fact that I’m probably staying in one of the cheapest hotels in town. I’m just focusing on the fact that the sheets are clean and not trying to figure out what that smell is. Not my usual standard of accommodation is all I shall say. But back to the spa: Even if you don’t get the massage afterwards, the springs are worth a soak, only don’t stay in there too long like I did otherwise you’ll end up with first degree burns. Itchy. But you should get the massage while you’re there. My masseuse laughed at me afterwards and told me I really needed to relax. I laughed back at him and said relaxing is not something I do very well – even on holiday and hoped he didn’t hurt his hands too much. Continue reading →