Art Deco Weekend

In 1931 the town of Napier was destroyed by a major earthquake. It was rebuilt in the famous art deco style of the time. Since then, it has become world renown for its unique architecture. Each year, thousands of visitors from all over the globe assemble in Napier for Art Deco Weekend. The town is teeming with classic cars and people dressed to the nines in glamorous art deco style costumes.

I was very disappointed in myself for not being on top of things and renting a costume for the weekend. But it was fun to people watch and see everyone else in their costumes. It was easy to imagine the town as it would have been in the 1930's. Men in top hats and striped coats, escorting women in flapper dresses and fur coats, with the jazz band playing in the background.

After a brunch in town, Kerry, John-Luc, Jeff and I watched the vintage car parade down main street. Some of the cars had been imported from Australia, Britain and the US specifically for this festival. After the car parade, we watched the airshow over the ocean which was quite spectacular. Later we met up with Anna and Bryce for a strole down Marine Parade to the harbour where a cruise ship was docked.

It was amazing to see how many people got into the spirit of art deco weekend. I only got to see one day of the festival. I missed the picnic by the sea on Sunday. Apparently, it's quite a sight to see people enjoying their picnic brunches around white table-clothed tables with china plates, silverware and crystal glasses.

Waitangi Day

New Zealand's national day, Waitangi Day, commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on February 6, 1840. At that time 500 Maori Chiefs and representatives of the British crown signed New Zealand's founding document. This treaty recognized the Maori as British citizens and gave them rights to their land. However, there is significant debate over the differences between the English version and Maori version of the treaty.

I celebrated the national holiday by attending the Waitangi Day celebrations in the little village of Clive. Jeff, John-Luc and I wandered around the fair grounds looking at displays of Maori art, and culture. We were definitely the minority at this rather large Maori gathering. At one point we saw several Mongrel Mob members, standing watch at the top of the hill.

There are two main New Zealand gangs that dominate the streets. The Mongrel Mob wear red shirts with black leather vests depicting a bull dog on the back. The opposing Black Power wear blue(Go figure-seems Blue Power would be more appropriate!) Red seemed to be the dominating color at this function. Jeff informed me that if any Black Power members were foolish enough to show their faces, we would make a quick exit! Being caught up in a battle between two opposing gangs would have put a damper on my first Waitangi Day.