Day 28 February 11,2024 Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Welcome to New Zealand!!

As I make my way to the walking track a cool breeze settles over Insignia. The forecast is temperatures of 24C so I do not think pants will be needed.

The Bay of Islands (explain more) is our first stop on the North Island of New Zealand. Royal Caribbean Brilliance of the Seas with its capacity of xxx is cruising into the bay as well. Today was spent with our friends Helen, Leroy, Bev, and Glenn exploring Paihia before taking the ferry to Russell for lunch at the Duke of Marlborough. Both couples have been here before.

Helen mentions that previously the ship's tender would take us to Waitangi. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds offer a fascinating insight into New Zealand's historic past. New Zealand's most significant document, The Treaty of Waitangi was signed here in 1840 between the Māori Chefs and the British Crown. Unfortunately, the ship's tender brought us directly to Paihia and we were not able to see the museum there. Well maybe next time.

Walking along the pier from the tender a sign for Russell Books appears so Janice is anxious to find the bookstore as it is the name of one of her favorite bookstores in Victoria. It is Sunday so some of the shops are closed. The Village Green & Craft Market is set up across from the pier offering interesting products. Janice found a sun hat and I purchased a magnet for the cabin door.

It was time to explore the village before we made our way to Russell. On the second street we found the old church with many interesting head stones. There are many old vintage houses on the main street in Russell as well.

We make our way to the restaurant and a couple who used to live in Russell brought their Russian Wolf Hound in for lunch. Sorry P & D but dogs are welcome in restaurants here. It is Bev's birthday, so we helped her celebrate her special day. Fish and Chips for me and a salad with chicken for Janice before stopping for Salted Caramel ice cream from Helen's favorite shop.

It is back on the ferry then the tender back to the ship however we were unable to make Trivia. Only one individual, Ben from our team was there and he joined another team and won, something that our team has never done. I think maybe he is now thinking of jumping ship.

That evening we were asked by the Hosts Carolyn and Paul for dinner at the Grand Dining Room. One of the duties of the Insignia's hosts is to host a dinner with the ATW guests. They had a last-minute cancellation, so Carolyn invited us. Janice gladly accepted and we don't mind being fill ins as we love spending time with them, they are so lovely.

After the evening show, Insignia had prepared a nice video to say goodbye to the 200 passengers leaving us in Auckland.

Auckland is only 132 nautical miles away.

Thank you again to Helen for planning such a lovely day. It is our first time and stop in New Zealand and we are already loving the country and their friendly people.