The
East Coast of the North Island contains both the East Cape and Hawkes Bay regions.
The The East Cape is the first part of New Zealand that a European set foot on, yet it remains one of the most isolated areas of the North Island today. The Cape, as it is affectionately known, contains scenic and rugged terrain and experiences the hottest summers in the North Island. This area of New Zealand has some nice beaches around Gisborne and is also home of the biggest national park in the North Island, the Urewera National Park.
Gisborne is the main city on the Cape and was the first city in the world
to see the new day because it is the closest city in the world to the international
dateline.
The Hawkes Bay to the
south also enjoys a warm climate and is a major fruit growing area. Oranges,
grapefruit, apples and kiwifruit are some of the major fruits grown here.
This region is home to
both Napier and Hastings which are 2 large towns located next to each other.
Napier is world famous for its high concentration of Art Deco buildings and
is also known by the title "The Art Deco Capital of the World".
It all started in 1931 when Napier was completely leveled by an earthquake
that measured 7.9 on the Richter scale. 
Napier
was rebuilt making it the most modern city in the world for the next few years.
The Art Deco style was at the height of its popularity for buildings in 1931
and was also better suited to earthquake prone areas. Today these buildings
still stand and many have been restored to pristine condition.
Hastings further to the south also has some great examples of Art Deco and is only a short drive from Napier.
Cape Kidnappers further
to the south is a popular spot for travellers. The area contains some spectacular
rugged cliffs and it is also a protected bird sanctuary.
| Related pages
Pictures of Napier Picture of Gisborne More regions |
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