Napier January 15-16. Unexpected connection.

Napier – in 1931 They had an earthquake of 7.8 Magnitude. “Changed the bay forever”, as they bay raised almost 2 meters (6 feet) and the main town burned to the ground. 256 People died in this earthquake. The town rallied, and rebuilt in some architecture of the time, mainly Art Deco.

Did a town walking tour to appreciate the building and details.

“The Parade” has beautiful gardens by the sea.

Lastly for Napier.  I stayed at B&B here as it was couple days off the bike. Weather was hot 30degree C. When I met the owner – we were talking about the motorbike ride. Found out his husband has Early Onset Alzheimers at age 65. Oh – I know this terrible disease and what it is like to be the caregiver. Its ended up being a gift to be here and have conversations with Joanne and David. Not easy – but really been good to have connected and able to talk about the disease – the ramifications.

They have a beautiful B&B with pool and they invited me to dinner.

Amazing how life unfolds. Hoping that the conversations help Joanne on her journey with this disease.

Back to riding today… Headed north along the coast.