Leaving Rotorua on a bus. This is wonderful, as long as the internet booking service works. I nearly missed the bus because of some malfunction (me or the internet service).

The drivers are real professionals, keeping everything tidy and strictly ordered. Also, they go to lengths to tell you about the surroundings, the history, environment, and economy of the region.

On this particular trip from Rotorua to Wellington, the variation of the landscape was pronounced. After a while we left the intensely green areas, and geothermally active parts to climb up to heights where only low brown shrub grows. Three holy mountains, snowcovered and on magnificent display this day, were duly photographed by all passengers when the coach made a scenic photo opportunity stop for our benefit.

Buses are equipped with convenience facilities, but frequent convenience stops really makes it almost redundant. Actually, toilet facilities are impressive. They are public, clean, functioning, free, and everywhere!

Wellington is only a two night stop for me, and I feel this was the right decision. Only two attractions this time; The Wellington cable car - to get a view of the city, which was magnificent yesterday, and the Te Papa museum - with the world’s only display of a giant squid.

Off to the south! Picton next!