Yes! I did it!

In New Zealand, you do what the locals do. This country is extreme in its love for adventure, adrenaline activities. The day before, I did Zorbing, which is quite tame to what I did yesterday. (Tuesday)

After debating for hours, I was dropped off at the Taupo Bungy. It overlooks the Waikato River, it is the highest water touch bungy, but I chose not to touch the water. As I was strapped in, I had no feeling, either excitement or fear. It was on the ledge that I had all the fear. I delayed several minutes before I jumped. It wasn't pretty, but I did it.

It was quite scary looking at the water as I rushed down. I screamed in fear. But then, the bungy took over and yanked me back up. It went from fear to jubilation as I finished the jump. I laughed at the end and on the way back up. What a moment of exhiliration! I can't believe I did it. Only in New Zealand. I wanted to do it, and yes I did it.

The people are awesome. My bus driver Gus was very friendly and encouraging as I contemplated the bungy. I met three nice young people from Auckland who were skiing in the Ruapehu area while at the Honey Hive in Taupo. We shared ice cream and stories about our time in New Zealand and their time in America. Very nice people. Very cool place!

Today, we took a spectacular drive through Tongariro National Park and saw three active volcanoes. The landscape was incredible as we went from lush forest, to desert to the Raging coast of the Tasman Sea. I love the scenery. I love this country.

Too bad I will miss the best part, the South Island. Next year I guess...