Page 124 of Even Ground

Two days later, we’re in the car again and on our way to Havelock North.

I haven’t been on a car trip for years, and now I’m on my second one within days.

We pass green fields that go for miles on both sides of the road. It might be winter, but the weather is mild and there’s a warm breeze floating through the car bringing with it all the scent of the countryside.

I feel more at peace than I have in a long time—at times I’m reminded of my grandmother’s old house. My life is a series of long distance flights, interrupted only by work. I’ve spent more time at home the past two years than ever before, but that was because of Josh and I going into business.

This is different. And it’s wonderful.

“How long is the drive?” I ask.

“About three and a half hours, but we can stop for breaks along the way.” She smiles.

“Sounds good to me. I like the idea of seeing more of your country.”

“At least you’re not sleeping this time.

It doesn’t take long for that to change, and I’m soon lulled off to sleep by the gentle purr of the car engine and the gentle twists in the road. My grandmother used to tease me about my ability to fall asleep anywhere, and some things never change.

About an hour later, I wrinkle my nose and shake my head to wake myself up.

The pungent smell of sulphur fills my nose. It’s like rotten eggs or a really awful fart.

“Oh my God. What the fuck is that smell?”

Pania chuckles. “I took a detour to wake you up. Welcome to Rotorua.”

I grimace. “Does it always smell like this?”

She pulls to the side of the road outside a small shop. “It’s all the geothermal activity. There are some amazing hot pools around here.”

“Now you’re talking.” I clap my hands together.

“I’m just going to grab some snacks for the rest of the trip. Want anything?”

I shrug. “Nose plugs?”

Pania leans over and pecks me on the lips. “You big baby. You’ll be fine.”

I lean back in my seat and she’s back a few minutes later with a bag full of drinks, potato chips, and candy.

“Pick out what you want.”

“My personal trainer is going to kill you.”

She laughs. “Bring it on.”

After starting the car, she pulls into the traffic. “Do you want to do some sightseeing while we’re here?”

“It’s not as if we’re running to a timetable. Sure.” I crack open a bottle of Coke and take a sip.

“I haven’t been here for a while. I’ll take you to one of my favourite places.”

The town soon gives way to the greenery of the countryside, but it’s not too far before we turn into a car park. It’s not clear why we’re here. There’s a large building, but it gives no real clues about what it is.

“Mum and Dad used to bring me here when I was a kid. I loved it,” Pania says. “If I’m bringing you this way, we might as well take a look.”

“Where are we?”