Today's adventures takes us into the Hawke's Bay Port of Napier, the one city in all the world known for its Art Deco style of architecture. In contrast to the devastating earthquake of 1931 which leveled most of the city, Napier rose from its own rumble and ash to become a very popular New Zealand city recognized for its unique Art Deco style and flourishing wineries. Unaware of it's past, visitors to Napier relish the locals friendliness and seascapes that surround the coastline.
For our visit, we made our way from the ship to the civic center via a shuttle bus. It dropped us off at the local Visitor Center. A walkway provided an opportunity to walk along the beach and enjoy the coastline. Along the way, we enjoyed a visit to the National Aquarium of New Zealand. Ian loved the exhibits and especially the shark's mouth (see picture below).
Following the aquarium we boarded a Duck Tour Bus operated by Russell, a licensed boat captain. It consisted of two parts, one over land and the other over water - really cool!!! The tour over land took us through various parts of Napier in which we were able to see a good portion of the city. The tour guide, Cassie was very knowledgeable and provided a vast amount of history and information beginning with its tragic past and leading up to the Art Deco city it is today. Later on in the tour, the Duck Tour Bus went into the water and showed us around the coastline. Ian loved the water splashes against the hull of the boat/bus.
Entrance into Napier
Welcome to Napier, the Art Deco City of the World - don't forget the wine!!!
Cliffsides along the coastline of Napier.
Memorial Garden
Who's afraid of a little shark???
Ian just loves touching the Koi!!!
Hello, my little friend! Am I not as pretty and good-looking as those fishies?
Lobster anyone???
Ian's favorite exhibit - the Sea Turtle!!!
Rachel and Ian on the beach
Art Deco at its finest and most photographed building in Napier.
Juan, Rachel, and Ian going for a Duck ride - quack, quack!!!
The Hawkes Bay Duck Tour Bus
Juan writing his mom a postcard from Napier, New Zealand.
Ian getting a lesson on riding a wooden bike from mama.
Art Deco art (pun intended)
More Art Deco style architecture - it was cool.
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