Taupo Lake, New Zealand (October 2013)

Next stop, Taupo Lake. This lake is HUGE and absolutely stunning. Fun fact, the lake is about the same size of Singapore… and the amount of people who live in Singapore is about the same as all of New Zealand. So take out the calculator: if all of the Kiwis lived in the lake, you would have Singapore.

Taupo Lake

The weather was very clear, but still a little chilly for any water sports. That part was sad, but it was still nice not having an overcrowded lake town to be able to easily get around and find somewhere to stay. Blackcurrant Backpackers was recommended to us, and it was perfect for what we needed. Centrally located and not over crowded, we check in and then… it happened. Brian decided it’s now or never, he MUST skydive especially in one of the best places skydiving places in the world! The guy at the front desk was very helpful to help set him up with Tandem Skydiving just a bit out of town. 10 minutes later, we were being picked up to head to the launch pad.

I wasn’t really sure what to expect from the people working at this place: adrenaline junkies, yes… total crazy people, not so much. Brian lucked out and was the only person on his epic plane ride up. His tandem partner was an Aussie named Marley who was really chill and into safely (thank god!). They jumped on the plane and about 20 minutes later I met him at the drop zone.

Me: “I see him! At least he jumped, that’s a good sign”
Skydive instructor: “Oh yeah, we don’t get paid unless he jumps, so Marley will kick him out if necessary”

I was wondering if I’d reget not doing it when Brian landed, but oddly enough I didn’t. He LOVED it and I’m so excited for him, but I think I’m saving my money and adrenaline for the diving and aqua based sports later in the trip. Overall, so proud of him and excited that he had a great time and possibly a new expensive hobby!

Brian landed safely so we decided to reward him with beers. We had a couple at a local bar and played some pool. After that we called it a night and made our way back to Blackcurrant to catch a few winks before hitting the road again.

Essential road trip fuel at a fancy McDonald's