Day 48 - BAY OF ISLANDS, NEW ZEALAND

 Date: 2/22/2024     Day 48 ⚓                   Anchor Port: BAY OF ISLANDS, NEW ZEALAND

Description: The "Bay of Islands" was how Captain Cook described this area two centuries ago and the simplicity of his name masks the diversity of its charms. The Bay of Islands is the finest Maritime Park in the country with 144 islands, secluded bays and abundance of marine life. It is one of the most popular fishing, sailing and tourist destinations in the country, and has been renowned internationally for its big-game fishing since author Zane Grey publicized it in the 1930s.

Planned Excursion: KAYAKING ON WAITANGI ESTUARY

3.5 Hours            Strenuous Activity            # BAY-002: Free

Enjoy a guided paddle by tandem kayak into Waitangi Estuary, where the river joins the bay.  Glide along normally calm waters past ranks of deep green mangroves whose exposed prop roots create an essential breeding habitat for small fish.  Reach the end of the estuary at Haruru Falls, not always mighty but always magnificent from the water.  Step out onto land and relax awhile over supplied light refreshments at a picnic area near the falls.  Refreshed, make the return paddle to Waitangi Wharf.

Todays Notes:  It was a beautiful mostly sunny day in the mid 70's.  Cathy and I were signed up for the kayaking tour, but Cathy decided she didn't want to go.  She instead went into the local town with Pat and Joe.  I on the other hand had a great time.  Unfortunately, my GoPro camera was not sitting on top of my ball cap squarely, so most of my videos look unlevel.   

The next 4 stops in New Zealand are daily with no sea days in between.    So I may not have the time to process and upload videos until after leaving New Zealand for Australia.  It's a two day crossing.  

Click Here --> Bay of Islands Pictures 

Click Here --> KAYAKING ON WAITANGI ESTUARY Video