Bag End

This morning we started off by driving from Hamilton through to Hobbiton.  We then spent a couple of hours on a guided tour of The Shire, followed by lunch in their cafe.

We then drove through to Rotorua and spent the afternoon wandering around the lake shore, enjoying the smell of rotton eggs that comes with the geothermally active areas.

Next, it was time to find our hotel, check in and get some much needed dinner.

After dinner, and after sunset, we took the short drive to Rainbow Springs Wildlife Park where we could view their nocturnal exhibits, including a Morepork Owl, various kea and (best of all) kiwis.  We saw two different Kiwis, both of which were in outdoor enclosures and not in artificial darkness. 

All in all, a great day throughout.  The blip is Bilbo's house from The Lord Of The Rings.  I don't have time to add any extras today, I'll add some if we find any free time!  Extras added!