Art Deco Days in Napier

Sister Tito and Sister Palmer really got everyone's attention in Napier. They are such outgoing missionaries.

Sister Itaia, Sister Tito, Sister Temakau and Sister Palmer all enjoyed talking with the many visitors at Art Deco Days. Everyone comes to Napier dressed in period clothing from the 1920's and 1930's. There are big car and air shows, outdoor vendors, concerts, puppet shows and more. Following the Earthquake that destroyed the city in 1931, the city was rebuilt in the Art Deco Style that was popular at the time. About 25 years ago the city started celebrating Art Deco Days and the tradition has been handed down in families and all the events are well attended.

Sister Tito preaching the word by the way.

 As I was taking pictures, this man stopped and posed. I didn't think he would move till I took his picture. Taking pictures was a wonderful way to open conversations to visit with people and we saw some amazing costumes. What a fun family tradition this city and country have.

They had been having a puppet show here for the children

 One of the decorative themes of the period were fountains representing the dawn of the modern age.

Even cruise ships stopped by for the festivities.

As part of the air show there were 5 vintage World War II Douglas Dauntless Dive Bombers from the US Marine Air Corps, they now have New Zealand Air Force insignia's on the side. These are the same Fighter/Bombers that President George H Bush flew in the South Pacific, where he almost lost his life after being shot down.

 The soup kitchens and poor were also represented.

After the sisters had provided a dress for me to wear and allowed me to go proselyting with them, we just had to enjoy  New Zealand's best ice cream - Rush Monro's. Missionary work is great fun and so rewarding!