Rotorua and Hawkes Bay

Cut our visit short to Rotorua and headed out for Hawkes Bay, destination Napier.  The drive to Napier which is about three hours straight driving was beautiful.  The elevation and vegetation were fascinating.  Much volcanic activity has taken place in the region and the hills are enormous with all the vegetation being brilliantly green.  One wouldn't call them mountains but some of them were quite majestic.  En route we stopped to view Hukka Falls which had the most beautiful blue green water, and also supplies 15% of NZ power.

We are staying in Napier along Hawkes Bay with a beautiful view of the bay and lovely homes in the area all overlooking the bay.  We are in a lovely B&B with art deco furniture.  In the early 1900's the town was destroyed by an earthquake so all was rebuilt in the art deco style, thus earning the name the Art Deco town.
Last evening we wandered down the hill into town which is about 15 minutes down and 1/2 hour back.

Before we got into town we passed by the Hawkes Bay Club.  Because of our membership at the Army Navy Club, we have reciprocity and the manager had invited us to stop by when in town to have a look round, as they say.  We had  tried to book a room when planning this journey and it was not available.  To make a long story short we had a lovely evening with the locals at a Kiwi barbecue, complimented by delicious wines.  What a evening!  We began our trip into town at 6 and arrived home after 11.  Our innkeeper was amazed at our ability to get into the club and was quite proud of his American visitors.
The day is beautiful, crystal clear views and hot!  We are off to explore wineries.