Tanya and Steve Road Test New Zealand - Wednesday

Check out their adventures here

WEDNESDAY:

Rotorua, affectionately known as Rotovegas, was the next stop on the trip. We’d heard lots about the place, like the smell (woah, it’s real), and the hot springs.

Due to our big 18.7km bike ride the day before, The Polynesian Spa was the perfect place to start. It’s nestled on the shores of Lake Rotorua, and is a geothermal bathing and soul soothing retreat.

From the moment you step in, you feel relaxed. You can jump in alkaline waters, or acidic waters – depending on your preference and which healing power you need. We loved it.

We freshened up after our baths at Sudima Hotel, and next, was Hobbiton.

This has to be the most magical place on earth. Even if you’re not a fan of the movie, or haven’t seen a second of it, you MUST go here. I can’t stress that enough.

Known as ‘The Shire’, the hobbit town is beautiful. The country side is mind blowing, and the magic of the village literally brought Tanya to tears. We walked around with guide Henry Horne, who is family friends with the Alexanders – who own the farm. His passion and knowledge for the area made the experience even better. It doesn’t end there though, enjoy an amber ale or ginger beer at The Green Dragon Inn, followed by the biggest feast you could imagine. Steve described it as ‘Christmas Day for Giants’ – which sums it up perfectly.

41% of people who visit Hobbiton haven’t seen the movie, but 95% go home and watch it afterwards. This, for me, has been the highlight of the trip.