In Maori heartland of New Zealand and geological gem of country’s unique landscapes. And it stinks! Literally, town smells permanently of rotten eggs. More accurately it’s Hydrogen Sulphide permeating earth’s thin crust [photo]. Fortunately we’re in campsite just outside permanent smelly zone. But low cloud this morning forced odour to our door. Phaw! When Ben first smelled it, after waking in the car, he blamed one of us. We all cracked up. So many nearby places to visit meant, with short time and limited budget, we had to choose selectively. Opted for site that offered much, Maori culture and craft, and natural volcanic wonders [photo]. Turned out excellent choice. The Maori Institute, kids enjoyed it and we loved it too. Leala was absorbed by weaving, taking native Flax leaf and stripping it to strands, intertwining strands to form plaits to fashion clothes and weaved items. She got first hand tuition [photo]. There early for first-come seats at traditional Maori concert [photo]. Men did their Haka and aggressive displays. Tongues out, eyes bulging, it frightened Ben [photo]. The day also had volcanism geysers, fumeroles, craters and mud pools, hot rock seats, mineral terraces, captive Kiwi bird, and Maori carving workshop [photo]. Money well spent! Got car for a week to tour North Island. Flew into Auckland but didn’t stay long. Arrival too late for a car, offices not open. Stayed nearby in budget motel and picked up in the morning. Planning to take it easy.