Day 5 and it's Napier

We woke to find that we were parked behind the Rhapsody of the Sea and having the two big ships nose to tail was quite impressive.

We didn't take a tour here as we had the Deco walking tour booklet courtesy of Lyn P so off we headed as soon as breakfast was finished.

This is a very pretty Art Deco city as it was destroyed by earthquake in 1934 (I think) and they had to totally rebuild almost all the central city area. Our first stop was the Napier theatre.

This is a good example of the city architecture. The foyer light fittings and carpets are all original or made to the exact same quality and design as the originals.

The light fitting in the main theatre is breathtaking. This light takes up almost the entire ceiling. The centre section changes colour very slowly so when you look up again it's like a whole new fitting. As with most of these great buildings the locals had to fight to save it from developers who wanted something "nice and new".

The lights in the foyer are a treat. Never seen anything like it in a deco building - so modern but original.
I can't possibly show you all the deco buildings as there are 93 in the CBD but if you ever get the chance to do Napier it is well worth a look.

In true sailing style Napier put on a 30's brass band to play us away. Complete with vintage cars and people in costume to wave us away. I was concerned that the band might just play "Nearer my god to thee" as we sailed away but thank god they didn't.