Napier puts on a stylish 1930s welcome

27 August 2008

It was like stepping back through time for the ship's company of HMAS Newcastle during a port visit to Napier, the art deco centre of New Zealand.

The ship played host to a memorable function on the flight deck for local officials, who were welcomed by Commanding Officer CMDR Nick Stoker. The guests went to great effort for the event, arriving in 1930s apparel with a stunning assortment of fox furs and feather boas. In return, they were treated to a traditional Ceremonial Sunset, under the command of SBLT Adrian Eddy.

The strong art deco culture is clearly evident in the city, with antique stores and architecture providing living history for a city which was rebuilt in 1931 after a severe earthquake, with assistance from the Navy. To this day, the locals gratefully welcome Navy ship visits, much to the delight of Newcastle's ship's company.

Wine tours were well attended by many of the crew, which made for a great opportunity to sample both the local sights and tastes. A local vintage car association provided transport for officers and chief petty officers, who were taken to scenic wineries in classic cars.

As has become a Newcastle tradition, the ship's golf club was active and played at the Hawke's Bay Golf Club. Some members of the ship's company travelled inland for a more action filled visit, which included visits to Lake Taupo and skiing and snowboarding on Mount Ruapehu.

From New Zealand the ship headed to Nuku'alofa, Tonga, before returning to Australia to start a significant upgrade process.