Napier

We left Lake Taupo quite early having visited the 'volcano activity centre' where we had the pleasure of experiencing an earthquake for several seconds - the real thing must be really scary.

We also watched several films while we were there about Mount Ruapehu which is an active stratovolcano at the southern end of the Taupo Volcanic Zone. 

Ruapehu, the largest active volcano in New Zealand, is the highest point on the North Island and has three major peaks: Tahurangi (2,797 m), Te Heuheu (2,755 m) and Paretetaitonga (2,751 m). 

From Taupo we drove to Napier passing the Waipunga falls (40 metres high) on the way (see extras).

Napier is on the east coast of the North Island.  It suffered a major earthquake in 1931 and rebuilt itself in the art deco style within 2 years.  We are in the Hawks Bay wine country and hope to visit one tomorrow.