The Way Back North - Art Déco and Thermal Spas

Could paddocks be any more beautiful? After the rain on the North Island

Napier
The coastal town of Napier is well known among travelers for its unique Art Déco Achitecture. Even though Napier is quite small, there is a lot to see if you are into details. Almost every building shows the style Napier is famous for, most of them newly painted in bright colors and showing off their geometrical ornaments. They also have a cute beach promenade stretching from one end of the town to the other.

 

Huka Falls
Just north of Taupo, the Huka falls squeeze the mighty Waikato river through a long, narrow chasm, creating a massive, foaming white rush of water that opens up into the Falls and a big basin below. They are quite impressive, especially standing on the bridge that leads over the deadly water.

 

 

Taupo, Wairakei Terraces
Taupo is a city of cycling, skying (in the nearby mountains) and taking advantage of the natural geothermal activities in a relaxing hot pool. Lazy backpackers that we are, we chose the last option and had a good soak at the “Wairakei Terraces”, a cozy place that is not only a spa pool, but also offers historical walks around the site and a replica of the Pink and White Terraces – a beautiful place that was destroyed by a vulcanic outburst in the 19^th century. A really nice day off and some deep warmth as a recompense for sleeping in the car in winter.