Napier, NZ - Day 45

The second largest wine growing region in NZ , the Hawke’s Bay Area boasts more than the 70 vineyards. The 1st ones were introduced by French missionaries in the mid-19th century. This scenic bar area is also home to Napier, an impressive cityscape of art deco architecture often compared to Miami Beach for its artsy vib. Built after much of the city was destroyed during a 1931 earthquake, the stunning “Main Street” design and art deco flair combine to create a city unlike any other in the world. The National Aquarium, one of the finest in NZ, can be found in Napier, The city also holds claims claim as the largest wool center in the Southern Hemisphere. The dock clearly demonstrates the extensive exported lumber - radiata pine, from Napier, NZ. $4 billion industry annually. Kauri has been over produced and is now endangered in NZ. We were met at the peer by entertainers - Haka dancer, a band and old restored car collection, and period dressed locals who were celebrating Waitangi Day. The town was wonderful and not packed. What a great place! The Takapu birds are beautiful. After a quick dinner in the WC, at sunset we were joined by pods of dolphin swimming beside the Neptune, some with babies by their sides. It was a spectacular evening… The Māori name for NZ was long white cloud (Aotearoa) which was clearly visible this evening. Aotearoa, the cloud, could be seen from many, many miles away when the land was not.Read more