We traveled south through the rich farmland of the Waikato to Waitomo Glowworm Caves. The boat ride in the Glowworm Grotto was spectacular. We continued to the “thermal city” of Rotorua for a visit to the geothermal hotspots and spouting geysers. It is the heartland of New Zealand Maori culture. We indulged in a hangi feast at Te Puia. A hangi, assorted meats and vegetables, is cooked in a pit over river rocks. We ate well and were entertained by cultural performances, including poi dance and a ferocious haka.