When you leave the Pacific Coast Highway in Napier, you'll join the southern end of the Thermal Explorer Highway. The road from Napier to Taupo takes you along the historical heritage trail. When you arrive at the great lake, switch to relaxation mode and plan your adventures while you indulge yourself in the steamy comfort of a hot spa. The lake and its adjoining streams are alive with rainbow and brown trout just waiting to be caught, and from Taupo it's only a short drive to the skifields of Ruapehu (in winter) and the wonderful walks of the Tongariro National Park (in summer). After Taupo, Rotorua beckons with its steamy thermal attractions and fascinating Maori cultural experiences. Then, on your way back to Auckland, stay for a day or more around Hamilton and the Waikato district - the land of underground mysteries.