An outing with Treza driving whilst Sean was at work. Napier market on Marine Parade was interesting- a mix between a car boot and market selling local produce. A beautiful sunny morning again so we ventured up steep roads with hairpin bends- well done driver- with rewarding views from Bluff Hill. Onward to Perfume Point for some chips and a beer. Next stop was the famous Arataki honey place to sample the many different honeys and buy some gifts. Back to meet Sea...

Blossom Festival- bad weather did not stop the locals enjoying their carnival day. However, we were less keen ton get blown away and waited for the sunshine which do not fail us for the afternoon. The water in the fountain had been dyed pink, the newly prepared square, Albert Square (named after the hotel that once stood there- not the British soap!) had a live band playing, and the atmosphere was relaxed and fun. We stopped in Bar 2013 opposite the square for a ...

A road trip today with Sean at the wheel, Jimmy 'Scot-nav', and the girls in the back with a flask of hot coffee and a packet of Tim-Tams (chocolate biscuits!). We took the Taihape Road from Napier to Taihape, through the Ruahani Range with views of the snow on the caps of Kawaka at 1724m. Passed through Sherenden- a small village. A few hailstones on the way. Sheep filled fields with lots of cute lambs frolicking. We could see Tongariro National Park in the d...

Today we were married by the lovely Kate, a local marriage Celebrant who just happens to be a Mental Health nurse! So we had a team up on Te Mata Peak, one of the most stunning locations I have been to and perfect for our special day. My best friend Treza was fantastic- she organised everything- 1st Class. Sean took the photos and Alfie wore the bow tie! The flowers were beautiful- Iris & Freesia in season here. To the east we could see wonderful views of the...

A busy day exploring the local area, collecting our marriage licence from Napier, and shopping for rings in Hastings. We were looking for something special so got Paua rings for the ceremony. "The gift of the God of the Sea", the ancient Maori people see the Paua Shell as a transcendent treasure. Each piece of jewellery made with the Paua is different and unique in colour and tone comprising of blue, green and purple shimmering shades.  The iridescent quality ...