We left Tongarino early to make the most of our day before the heat would become overwhelming. Arriving at the Maori Village of Whakarewarewa in time for the first tour and performance of the day was a real treat, and everything we had hoped it to be. Guided by a Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao gentlemen, who was back for the long weekend, we passed his sons swimming in the river before glimpsing a little of the past and present Maori culture of these New Zealanders in their incredible geothermally active township.

We then headed to Te Aroha village, and later, where we relaxed in the shady (literally, not figuratively) campsite.