Taupo to Napier

Lake Taupo is the largest lake on the North Island and is known for trout fishing.

North of Taupo is the Aratiatia Dam, which opens several times a day to generate hydroelectric power. When the dam opens the Aratiatia Rapids fill with water. Tourists then have the opportunity to ride a jet boat beneath the rapids. I took the ride and it was a lot of fun.
The dam releasing water
The rapids filling....
A black swan on the lake above the dam
South of the Aratiatia Dam is another high volume flow of water. At Huka Falls, the falls aren't big, but the volume and speed are quite high.

Waipunga Falls can be seen on the drive from Taupo to Napier

Napier is known for its Art Deco buildings.A view of the downtown from the porch at the bed and breakfast where I spent the night.

Sunrise over the ocean, taken from the porch at the bed and breakfast.

Flowers in the Napier Botanic Garden