Also, included will be a visit with a farmer and cropping contractor, who specializes in no till seeding and pasture development by direct drilling to assist the control of soil erosion. In the early afternoon we meet our farm hosts and disperse to their properties to discuss their management practices before spending the night at the farm. Today we head east into the Hawkes Bay, famous for its sheep, horses, horticulture and wineries. After lunch a brief stop at Norsewood to see the factory producing this famous brand of allweather woolen goods. During the visit to the forestry, sheep and beef property you will be able to see sheep shearing and the mustering of the sheep, using New Zealand's famous working dogs and if conditions are right, possibly aerial fertilization.
Tonight is again spend in private houses of local farming families.
This morning we visit a 32-HA working orchard and fruit packhouse, and taste some old and some new exciting flavours. We will also tour a winery, taste some of their product and enjoy lunch. This afternoon we begin our journey to Rotorua, via lake Taupo created by volcanic eruption, Taupo is New Zealand's largest lake. A brief visit to Huka falls before continuing to Rotorua. On arrival, a guided tour of the world renowned Whakarewarewa and Maori Arts and Crafts Village.