Napier, New Zealand

Tuesday, February 4, 2020

     "The second-largest wine-growing region in New Zealand, the Hawke's Bay area boasts more than 70 vineyards.  The first ones were introduced by French missionaries in the mid-19th century.  This scenic bay area is also home to Napier, an impressive cityscape of art deco architecture often compared to Miami Beach for its artsy splendor.  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 New Zealand, can be found in Napier.  The city also holds claim as the largest wool center in the Southern Hemisphere."

     Another beautiful sunrise as we sailed into Napier, a New Zealand city with a seaport, located in Hawke's Bay on the eastern coast of the North Island. The population of Napier is about 56,000 people.

     The city of Napier, destroyed by an earthquake in 1931, was rebuilt in the spirit of the decorative and colorful architecture of the day.  Throughout the downtown and residential areas are the art deco buildings adorning the city's streets.

 

 

After another delicious dinner &watching the sunset, we enjoyed a presentation on "Whales and Dolphins" (& Manatees) in the "Dome" - the onboard 3D planetarium.