I thought I’d check out the North Island’s wine country, as a potential stopover for the future guided tour itinerary. The “capital” of this wine country, Napier (pop. 55,000), was a ghost town, even on a Friday night. Locals’ reasoning: rugby game on the tele. Nuff said. But, that didn’t stop me from mingling with the few existing socialites and making instant friends! One little off-the-beaten-track place was featuring a Maori reggae band’s first gig. (Apparently, this was a gang event and outsiders were not typically welcomed, as Kiwi Kerry explained to me as we entered; but not being “in-the-know” about their social norms and emanating happiness while dancing seemed to do the trick to be welcomed into their party!) The night included lots of reggae groovin’ and a really soulful conversation with one of the Maori (gang member?).
Napier itself was not very attractive to me. From what I saw, it seemed quite touristy, filled
with expensive shops. So, Millie and I quickly moved on, bound for Waitomo Caves (black water rafting and abseiling!). Stopped in Taupo to break up the drive (also quite touristy – man, I’m so spoiled now by the less blemished areas I’ve discovered!). Went for a short hike to Huka Falls, recommended by Max from Wild Side. Then continued on to yet another touristy town, Waitomo. Wow, it was like an American reunion! It seems we all condense here to do cave-exploring adventure tours… we crazy, adrenaline-loving Americans, I tell ya.
Photos for this week - click here!
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