Green rolling hills, vineyards and art deco

A l-o-n-g drive to Napier (the Art Deco capital of New Zealand, much of the town was rebuilt after a big earthquake in the 1930's) through green landscapes and into Hawkes Bay wine country. The photo was carefully planned... taken out of the window whilst driving through the countryside! There is a huge amount of sky in New Zealand, the landscape is very open.

Arriving in Napier we decided camping in towns isn't for us and we headed for the YHA with views to the sea. We went for a long walk along the beach, through the port and to a very good fish and chip shop 'The frying Dutchman'! Run no less by a Dutchman (who seemed to think York was next to the Welsh border..)!

We then set about our most important business of the day... we had awoken to wonderful news that we have a new baby nephew, Samuel! Time to celebrate such good news with some local cider, decent brandy and a couple of cocktails. Congratulations Stella and Jonny, we can't wait to meet your new arrival at Christmas!