Wednesday, February 14, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Napier, New Zealand

Where in the World Are We?

In Napier on the East Coast of New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean

NAPIER, NEW ZEALAND
EXPLORE THE FAMOUS WINE-PRODUCING REGION OF HAWKE’S BAY

Sip the fine wines of legendary producers visit Cape Kidnappers’ crowds of birdlife and wander the stylish streets of the world’s art deco capital during your time in handsome Napier. Located on the huge arc of Hawke’s Bay Napier enjoys a generous Mediterranean-style climate and a breezy cafe culture. A green outdoor town wander Marine Parade which borders the rich blue Pacific and invites you to stroll along a tree-lined two-mile seafront.

Take the gentle hike up to Bluff Hill for panoramic views over the lively Napier Port and out towards Cape Kidnappers – given its name following a clash between Captain Cook’s settlers and the local Maori population. Here you’ll encounter one of the world’s largest mainland gannet colonies creating a colourful cacophony by the sea. Set on sheer cliffs the goldenheaded birds are an incredible sight swirling overhead and dancing before you.

The city’s renowned Art Deco architecture glows in the sunshine of New Zealand’s North Island. Built following the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake that ripped through the region in 1931. The rebuild in the architectural fashion of the time has left an authentic treasure trove of 30s-style buildings.

Grapes thrive in the warm dry climate of Napier and Hawke’s Bay which is one of New Zealand’s oldest wine regions.
Swirl glasses in waterfront bars or head out to walk among the vineyards of pinot gris and syrah grapes learning of the
climate conditions that help add sophisticated flavour to every bottle.

WAIOTAPU THERMAL WONDERLAND
This 40-hectare pa (Restored Maori Village) is one of New Zealand’s most important archaeological sites. When you climb the hill further up you will be rewarded with excellent panoramas of the surrounding countryside down to Napier and across to Cape Kidnappers.

SIGHTS

• Napier’s Art Deco Architecture
• National Aquarium of New Zealand
• Mission Estate Winery
• Cape Kidnappers
• Marine Parade

Today’s Excursion – Hawke’s Bay Express
We experience the Art Deco beauty of Napier and its surrounds by road train during this scenic excursion aboard the elegant
Hawke’s Bay Express.

Napier, Hawke’s Bay Express Road Train-Ride
We rode aboard the Hawke’s Bay Express, a modern road train with the look and feel of an old-fashioned steam engine, complete with a romantic atmosphere straight out of the opulent Art Deco era. The Hawke’s Bay Express features velvet-covered cushioned seats, spacious carriage benches, tall windows, polished wooden floors, and crimson-tasseled curtains. As the bell rang and the whistle blew, we were transported back in time for an Art Deco experience in Napier like no other.

Marine Parade, City Centre, Art Deco Architecture, Bluff Hill, Ahuriri Village
We headed out along the scenic Marine Parade, with seascape views of Cape Kidnappers. From here, we proceeded through the elegant city center of Napier and along the main street, which is mostly a pedestrian zone, and marveled at some of the world’s most stunning examples of Art Deco architecture. Along the way, we learned about the catastrophic 1931 earthquake and the city’s subsequent Art Deco-style rebuilding effort. Leaving the town center, we headed over to Bluff Hill, an older area featuring early settlers’ homes, and then we continued to Ahuriri, once an old port village and now a haven for summer tourists.

National Tobacco Company Building, Bar and Restaurant Area, Ahuriri Port, Marine Parade
We learned about the life and culture in New Zealand, as well as some famous Kiwis and fascinating Maori legends during the bay’s history and changes over the last 600 years. Following a photo stop outside the former National Tobacco Company building, perhaps the region’s Art Deco masterpiece, we rode through the vibrant bar and restaurant area, then past the sailing port of Ahuriri before turning back towards Napier’s Marine Parade.

Enjoy the photos of our tour on Valentine’s Day of Art Deco Napier.

Tonight’s Dinner was in The Restaurant with a Valentine’s Day theme

Check out tonight’s Chronicle