February 17, Substitution Port
One of the most socially and culturally significant locations in New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is possibly more famous for being exquisitely, even breathtakingly beautiful. In many ways, it is the cradle of modern New Zealand, for it was here in 1840 that the British made a pact with Maori chieftains which changed the course of the country’s history. The treaty of Waitangi was signed here, guaranteeing Maori tribal authority, enabling the peaceful purchase of land and granting the British the right to govern the country.
The sail in was beautiful, the sky was blue and pink on all around the ship. The beautiful islands were covered in mist. It is only 62 degrees this morning but forecast to go to 68 degrees, a welcome change from the humid 80’s. The pictures below do not do it justice. The top one is taken aft and the other from the port side of the ship.
We went ashore around 9:00 am, the day was absolutely beautiful, 70 and partly cloudy. We spent half the day in Paihia, New Zealand visiting shops, museums and the library where Betty updated her Kindle Fire. We then took the ferry to Russell, New Zealand, an historic seaside village. Below is a picture of New Zealand’s oldest operating petrol station - no prices were posted so we couldn’t compare. The picture on the right is a whaling boat from the late 19th century.
For lunch we went to the Duke of Marlborough Hotel and Restaurant on the waterfront. Our view from our table was amazing and very relaxing. Betty ordered a Cuban sandwich, after getting it she said apparently they were never to Cuba or Miami. I ordered Fish and Chips and it was excellent. I had a few beers which I will update on the beer list. We finally decided we better get the ferry back to Paihia, New Zealand and take the shuttle to the ship. As luck would have it the line for the tender was very long so I went to the Bay of Island Yacht Club and had another good New Zealand beer.
As we left it started to rain, guess we were lucky. We are now on our way to Auckland, New Zealand which is only 80 miles away so looks like the Captain will be doing loops during the night.
