Napier NZ Feb 6th

The ship repositioned to another port in NZ this morning, Napier. It is the second largest wine growing region in the country and has over 70 vineyards. Like everywhere in NZ, you just plant it and it grows like crazy. The volcanic soil will just grow anything, so the grape vines do really well.
Napier is a small town full of art deco buildings. After and earthquake and a fire the town was completely re-built.
Our excursion today was to 2 different wineries for tastings. Premier Estate Winery and Abbey Cellars. On our drive out we could see the main street of the town and it's quaint art deco buildings. The wines were all good and just slightly different that the taste we get at home since the grapes are growing in the volcanic soil. The first winery had our new favorite cheese as a pairing. Blue cheese with just a little bit of honey.
On the way back to the ship we say more vineyards and grape vines than I thought possible to grow. As far as you could see. And there were the usual Kiwi fruit farms, sheep, dairy cattle and the vertical hedges to shield the crops.
Back on board, we set sail, had a nice dinner and played cards again with Roger and Pennie. Then off to bed...Read more