Moving south on the north island of New Zealand offered us the chance to visit Gisborne today. Opportunities abounded, including a bicycle tour, winery visit, arboretum exploration, and a rural station experience to keep our group busy throughout the day, experiencing all that Gisborne had to offer.
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For the final day of our trip, we anchored off the town of Russell in the north of the country to visit the site where the Waitangi Treaty was signed by both Māori and the British Crown. The timing of our visit was remarkable as just hours after Māori MP Hana-Rawhiti Kareariki Maipi-Clarke tore-up the Indigenous Treaty Principles Bill during a powerful Haka in parliament. The bill ostensibly promises to extend and clarify the treaty. The day began with torrential wind and near-gale winds but ended in glorious sunshine.
As we continue north to experience more of New Zealand, we discover more and more beauty at every turn. Today we found National Geographic Orion anchored at Great Barrier Island. We had excursions planned ashore and luckily the weather was cooperating with our activities. In the morning, we were joined by Steve, the main caretaker of Great Barrier Island. He explained the history of the island as well as all the efforts made to preserve and conserve the island, including the eradication of any non-native pests. Morning activities commenced after Steve’s welcome and part of the group went off to a manuka distillery to witness the production of manuka oil. Hikers went ashore to visit the kauri tree forests. Overall, it was a beautiful day with great scenery and good company.
Guests aboard National Geographic Orion cruised by Whakaari White Island on our way to the Port of Tauranga in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty. As the ship cruised the coast, guests spotted a number of seabirds, including diving and storm petrels and sooty shearwaters. Once in port, guests ventured inland to Rotorua. Also known as “Sulfur City”, this area is known for its rich Maori culture and unique geothermal hot springs. Guests visited Te Puia, a cultural hub dedicated to preserving Māori traditions. Here, they had the opportunity to engage with local artisans at the arts school, witnessing the intricate craftsmanship of traditional carving and weaving. Participants enjoyed hands-on demonstrations and learned about the significance of these art forms in Māori culture. The day's excursions not only provided breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences but also deepened the guests' understanding of New Zealand's cultural heritage. As the sun set over Tauranga, National Geographic Orion prepared to continue its journey, leaving behind a lasting impression of this remarkable destination.
