Our second trip to New Zealand was a last minute add on since it was more affordable to spend time here then to stay in Oahu, Hawaii. We loved our previous time on the south island so much, we thought we would visit the north island this time.

Rotorua

We didn’t have much time here, so we drove south to explore the hot springs, red woods and Maori culture. First stop turned into a full day at the Rotorua Polynesian Spa, Wai Ariki, where we spent hours soaking in geothermal pools followed by an aromatic massage with the most unique and immersive Maori music, a full sensory experience. We left feeling renewed.

Redwood forest hiking

Maori cultural experience and some wonderful conversation