Rotokare Sanctuary, Te Popo and New Plymouth
Today I focussed on the east of Mt Taranaki with more walking than gardens. The forecast was great for today and not at all good tomorrow, so it was a no-brainer! The first place I stopped was Eltham, another quirky little arty crafty town with a fabulously decorated public toilet! I visited a pottery in Eltham too and really enjoyed discussing pottery with the local potter. From here it was a short and pretty drive to Te Rotokare Sanctuary, a fantastic predator free sanctuary for many species of native birds, lizards, fish and trees. It is incredible to think of how much work was required to build the fences right around this large park. It was a perfect day to visit this magical place. I was alone on the track but it was good to know a volunteer was at the entrance in case of problems. The weather was brilliant with hardly a puff of wind, and it was a pleasant tempersture for walking the 1.5 hour track around the lake, through the forest. I was very thrilled to se...