Rotorua is often known as the cultural heart of NZ and this will be our destination today. We start with a cycle through the beautiful Karangahake Gorge approx 16-17 km. The saying “All the gear and no Idea” comes to mind when before I even start my day or get on my bike I catch the front of my leg on one of the peddles! It was like a geezer and broadly a big blood egg was forming on my leg, I thought my day was over, however, thankfully I got it elevated and my trusty Fio having sprained her ankle on her first day in Sydney a week or so ago had sticky strapping with her, so we were able to put hankies directly on the wound and strap the impacted points – all sorted and good to go. Yes, it was flipping sore, what a plonker!

This area was once a thriving gold mining area, workers wages were low and conditions poor. There were many gold mining accidents and disease. Production and discontent soared in equal measure and the 1894 Industrial Arbitration Act prevented them from getting their proper dues. Workers joined unions to protect their rights and in 1912 this conflict erupted into violence. At Waikino ie where I am, a mob attacked a group of striking battery miners in the middle of the night. In the morning a man was killed on a struggle with the Police and strike breakers in Waikiki. Fred Evan’s was the first man/victim to lose his life in the industrial conflict and a martyr to the Labour cause. He is buried in Auckland where commemorations continue to this day.

Rotorua was in site so we travelled onwards and arrived in the late afternoon to the pungent smell of sulphur coming from the hot springs.

Dinner, a quiet evening and laundry to do. An exciting day ahead, white water rafting whoop whoop!