We left CG at 7:45am to arrive at River Boat Cruise by 8:20 – very nice ride up Huka River. Our guide, Dave, was very knowledgeable about the wildlife, geothermal power plant, history and vegetation along the river. Got back to the dam just in time to see them open the dam at 10 AM and got some great pictures. Stopped at glass blowing shop before continuing up to the volcanic area that was again similar to Yellowstone – 3 loops, 1 ½ hour (3KM) to walk all 3 loops. Arrived in Rotorua around 2 PM and checked into the campground before exploring the town where we saw some locals’ lawn bowling and some beautiful buildings.
We also booked a private bath at the Polynesian Spa with a romantic view of the lake where we relaxed together in a warm, mineral, geothermal heated bath. 
To celebrate Linda’s upcoming birthday, we found a nice, cozy, restaurant and enjoyed a venison, beef, chicken and lamb dinner which we cooked on a hot stone right at our table. We later explored the Rotorua night market before returning to the CG – another great learning experience and memorable day celebrating Linda’s upcoming birthday.
