Last Minute Dash to Waiwera Hot Pools

The next day was a bit of a blur, so I'm not even sure what to write here; but one thing is certain -- Dad promised us that we wouldn't leave New Zealand without at least one dip in the Waiwera Hot Pools. Apparently, the water is all heated by volcanoes?

As usual, Dad made us all late; and Regan and Amelia were having an afternoon sleep (because Dad was wearing them out as well), so we kinda arrived at Waiwera only 40 minutes before it closed.

    I had my floaty with me though, and had been sitting around the house all day, so was ready for adventure. Even though we drove half an hour to swim for half an hour, it was awesome all the same.

Check it out. (This is what it would have looked like if we'd got there during the day)...

After our great swim, we headed next door to the local tavern, poured everyone a nice cool pint of beer (Tui and Export Gold), or a glass of wine; then laughed at the how often the Canadian's giggled at the local New Zealand drunkards. 

Truth be told, the whole situation was catching up on us, and we were totally buggered by this point. (Regan and Lucy even took an off-ramp on the way up, only to drive off again, and hit the toll bridge anyways). 

Jaded, and ragged around the edges, the swim was worth the effort and the Seafood Basket was to die for. Cheers Waiwera - next time we'll show up when it's not raining and the sun's out.
    Yawn!
    Good night for now. I've got an early start in the morning... Mum says we've gotta get up at 4:30am to catch a flight to Dunedin, and...
    I'm pooped...

Wake me when it's time for breakfast...

Yawn* - or maybe, we'll just... eat on the plane...

zZz zZz zZz...