Driving on the left is starting to make sense, which leaves me with serious reservations about driving safely when I get home. I continue to turn on the windshield wipers at every intersection (or at least the ones with left turns), but the windscreen needed a good wipedown anyway, so that’s okay. Spectacular scenery can be a little problematic. Memorable quote from this leg of the journey: “Ooooh! Look at that forest! Ooooh! Look at that oncoming traffic!”

We have arrived in Taupo. Dave and I are taking it easy today, since we can barely walk (see previous blog about Blackwater Rafting and Waitomo Walkway). Taupo is a very picturesque lakeside community, full of Kiwis trying desperately to pretend it’s still summer. Dave and I are wearing fleece and jeans. These people are wearing shorts and T-shirts, and are covered with goosebumps.