First stop on the way to Rotorua was at the Waitomo glow worm caves. We went on a tour of the caves, first on foot and then on a (very) short boat ride. It took longer to get everyone into the boat than the trip lasted for. After this we arrived at Rotorua where I visited Tamaki Maori village. I'm always sceptical of these types of attractions as they can often be very tacky - however I found this to be really informative. The traditonal Maori Hangi meal was especially memorable.
Rotorua is a very green town with many trees in the centre and parks surrounding, all in their autumnal colours.