Napier or bust

Thursday 3rd. Just before we set out, a picture of our B&B. 

The bedroom was downstairs to the left. 

Set off on a 4 1/2 hr drive to Napier. We decided to go via Masterton on SH2 and on the way we crossed Rimutaka Hill. 

At the summit there is a memorial to the men who took part in the crossing of the hill during the First World War. If you enlarge the following picture you will be able to read all about it. (Or possibly not!) 

Views from both sides of the summit. 

The march would not have been too pleasant. 

Just before we set off again one of the logging lorries came past. 

I find it hard enough negotiating some of the bends, I don't know how they do it! 

When we got to Pahiatua we decided to stop for lunch at the Black Stump. 

Brigid had a tuna salad and I had a three egg omelette. Both were excellent. We are continually surprised as to how good meals are right across NZ. 

We continued on our journey and without too much problem arrived at Napier, the Art Deco capital of New Zealand. 

That's our car at the bottom and the B&B is at the top of the trees. 

View from our room. 

Later in the evening we walked down to the quayside for supper. I say down but in fact we had to climb the hill first and then descend steeply down the other side. At the bottom we waited for a train to pass by. 

Then onto the quay for our food. 

But first, something to drink. We then had fish and chips and a pizza. 

Sunset over the harbour. 

The only downside of the evening was that we had to climb our hill again. And, boy, was it steep! We certainly slept well after that.