We accepted a terrific invitation to spend the day on Lake Okataina to kayak, fish and picnic. Our host Francois DuToit is an orthopedic surgeon who came from South Africa in 2001 to do a six-month locum tenon at Rotorua Hospital. He and wife Cherie never went back.
Lake Okataina is about 30 kilometers from Rotorua and is one of the most beautiful lakes in New Zealand. The volcanic lake is completely encircled by native forest and has no inlets or outlets - spectacular! After paddling to a private beach, Cherie arranged an elaborate picnic while Francois hung an impressive array of hammocks - just in case anyone in our group of 6 1/2 wanted an afternoon nap before fishing. These pictures do not do Lake Okataina justice - guess we'll have to go back.
By the way, we're pretty sure Francois and Ernest Fokes were separated at birth.
Sounds like a great outing! I just hope you both don't "pull a DuTois" and forget about the comparable beauty of North Idaho with its beautiful lakes, fancy wooden kayaks, and the REAL Ernest Fokes.
ReplyDeleteSure sounds (and looks) like you had a wonderful day on the lake. I would give anything for a "nap in a hammock" on the the beach right now!
ReplyDeleteHi Sue, Hope you can help - we are looking for Cheri as she was a high school classmate 50 years ago and we are arranging a reunion. Do you perhaps have contact info for her. Would so appreciate your assistance. Annette
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