Shaun the Prawn!

The stars last night....wonderful. That's the beauty of this freedom camping malarkey. The only downside is the sheer number of backpackers, campers, caravans (only one) and campervans that all vie for a bit of space. Somehow we all get squeezed in and everyone is good-natured and even help. There were loos on site, very very basic (hole in the floor with a bucket over. We do get a toilet seat and lid (helps keep them smells at bay until one lifts it!). No water apart from the river and that was very popular with bathers and people washing their hands. Anyway, a lovely and peaceful night was had although we were up early to beat the queue for the loos. (only two plus a disabled). As it was still so early, we decided to drive to see the Wairakei Geothermal steam plant, quite an impressive sight.

'Beware of steam'  the road signs read 'and switch on headlights'. Hmm they were not wrong.

Only one cup of tea drunk this morning so it was a stop at Huka falls again for a brew. Lucky for us we did as the jet boat turned up with the thrill seekers.

By now it had turned 9 am so next stop the Huka Prawn. It was here that we caught our lunch. For $20 concessionary rate we could fish for as many prawns as we wanted, have them packed in ice to take home or cook them at the park. Well not having bought anything for dinner we rubbed our hands in glee at the thought of a bucket load to take home. So armed with chopped liver, a cane with line and hook and loads of sunscreen we settled down expecting a prawn at every cast.

This lucky male was in a tank to use as the stud. He would not be cooked.

The first catch to me

Next was Ian

We sat for two hours and in total caught.....5!

Ian did the deed by plunging them into boiling water. I just couldn't bring myself to do it. Did enjoy the two I had, mind.

So with nothing for dinner, we headed towards Taupo. Stunning views as we came down the highway and was surprised to see Mount Ruapehu snow capped.

The camp site we found for the night was along a dirt track in the geothermal valley. Not quite free as we paid for power but an absolutely stunning place. More like an animal farm with the Llamas, caged rabbits, chooks, goats, sheep and Peacocks. In fact, the Peacock and chooks checked us out as soon as we found our spot. Not sure where we will be tomorrow. We fancy a drive around lake Taupo and an Op shop (Charity shop) has to be found because I have broken one of the wine glasses and it needs replacing. Blooming well full with wine when I knocked it over!!! Sacrilege!!!!

And a few more critters,

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Never seen a spider like this one before and can't find out anything about it. Any ideas??