Ewww...What is That Smell?

Roturua, New Zealand

April 29, 2007
S 38.08.172
E 176.14.369

Marc and I had two top priorities for the day—update the blog (internet access has been spotty in the rural areas of the North Island) and do laundry. Our towels were completely covered in mud after the floating tent incident and in desperate need of a wash. Dustin and Shelby had wash to do as well, so that consumed most of our morning. We were all fine with a little relaxing after two hardcore days in the car.

After the chores were finished, we headed out on a walking tour of Rotorua. The mid-sized town (10,000 pop.), by New Zealand standards, is famous for its thermal baths, hot mud pits and Maori culture—the walking tour included all of the above.

Prior to coming to Rotorua, I was warned that the sulfur smell leaves one holding their breathe until they reach the next town—I get the point. The town reeks of rotten eggs, the most pungent farts and the smelliest blue cheese all mixed together making Pepe Le pu smell like roses.

During the walking tour we quickly realized we wouldn’t get used to the smell, so our only option was to move onto the next town. We are off tomorrow to hike in Te Urewera National Park.