Ah Love Peaks and Falls

Tamata Peak

There are two things that are certain, there are no straight lines in the universe and surely there are no straight roads in New Zealand.  I am now heading North after taking the ferry from South Island to North Island.  The ferry ride was another choppy ride.  The people on the front deck were scared off by a huge wave.  On the ferry I ask someone where I should stay, while I head to the east coast on North Island.  He suggested Havelock North.

Race Track Near Havelock North

The town square is filled with upscale boutiques and young good looking families drive around in BMWs.  I find out that this is where the kids of families who have made it move.  In New Zealand you never know what you are going to find from one town to the next.  From one street rural towns to sophisticated communities, you can find both. 

On my way I stop a bird sanctuary that had no birds in it.  The lady gave me my money back. 
Driving, I spot a sign that says olive oil tasting.  Considering that there are around a million vineyards in New Zealand and I don't really drink wine, this sounded like a good stop.  I drive up to a small estate and an older gentlemen greets me.  I have a choice of around 6 different olive oils to taste with bread.  In the end, I opted for a bag of olives, which were a tasty snack for the road. 

I asked to se the groves and he said, he could not take me but the dogs would give me the tour.  I have seen so many incredible sites in New Zealand.  But this little farm really struck me with its simple and serene beauty.  The dogs accompanying me was like walking into heaven. 

Back to Haverlock North, I ate in a incredibly cute restaurant that was in a stand alone older building and was painted pink on the outside and inside, with shabby chic furniture.  I thought how much my nieces would have loved it.  I visited Tamata peak, which I would say is one of the most spectacular views I have ever seen.  It was getting dark and over cast and unfortunately did not get the picture I was looking for.

I then headed to the town of Napier.   Which is on the east coast.  The town had a deco feel and reminded of a town from another era.  I ate a really cute restaurant that had pictures of rock stars called Zig Zag Cafe.

I think I had a chicken satay sandwich, which was incredible.  In New Zealand, a lot of the food is influenced by the east.  I also had a cup of real green tea, which tea leaves and a fusion pot. 

On ward I head to lake Taupo, which was an incredible touristy lake more in the center.  I had a quick dinner and as it was getting  late.  I headed to Huka falls to try to see it before Sunset.  I did not know what to expect hear.  The falls were not huge and they did not drop far but what I saw were the bluest and strongest falls that I had ever seen. 

The water going to the falls and the falls themselves were mesmerizing.  Since the water is pushed through such a tight gorge, it gives it, its momentum.  And some how the word turns that blue.  I don't know how it is easy, but almost every lake, seaside view and now waterfall has the most amazing blue color. 

The trip has not always been easy and has its ups and downs but olive the peaks and falls.