10/2 To Napier, on the east coast. Napier's claim to fame is that is was virtually destroyed in Feb 1931 by a 7.8 earthquake and as per the architectural style of that era the town centre was rebuilt in a predominantly Art Deco style. The town plays on this and the facades of many shops and public buildings are maintained and painted in colours appropriate to that age. Napier is a pleasant seaside town with a wide promenade but also has a busy port and in recent years cruise ships have been stopping here.
We drove to a local high point, Te Mata, which is 400 metres above sea level and gives a 360degree view of the town and countryside. The local keep fit enthusiasts use Te Mata as a running/walking/cycling course so many pathways and tracks crisscross the road route to the summit!
12/2 set off for a place called Okahune, via a road called locally 'Gentle Annie' although Kiwis pronounce it 'Gintle Annie' through a national park and some stunning scenery. Over the 4 hour journey we climbed 2000 metres above sea level as we reached our destination which in the winter is a thriving ski resort but in the summer is a quiet, laid back little town which appears to have more restaurants and motels than inhabitants!