The bus, with a driver and a Maori tour guide who led us in sing alongs, drove us through Napier and then on to a Maori boys boarding school, ages 13 to graduation, about half an hour drive away, at the Te Aute College. This was the school's first visit from a cruise ship, and they were very interested in having our opinion.
First, we took off our shoes and entered their meeting house – the men were invited to sit up front. After some welcoming speeches, and more sing alongs, then we toured their complex. Built on a hill, you get amazing views of the country side. We toured their church, listened to a commentary about healing, and visited with some of the students. Then we went to the dining hall, where there were impressive Maori drawings - the junior boys performed a haku. We enjoyed this tour (Tip $5 NZ).
When we got back to the ship, there were old cars there from Napier, with the drivers and passengers in period costumes. There was also a brass band, which played as the ship left the harbor - very nice.
For dinner, I had Ceaser salad, prime rib, vodka martini, and for dessert, a lamington and raspberry sorbet.
