Overnight, the bridge team of National Geographic Orion navigated from Kaikoura to Abel Tasman National Park on the northern tip of the South Island of New Zealand. We spent our morning either hiking the green hills or kayaking the blue waters. The forested trails, most of which have been eradicated of invasive flora and fauna, allow the native species to shine. Our kayakers observed a variety of birdlife, including spotted shags, pied shags, terns, fluttering shearwaters, and even a harrier hawk! We also spotted an eagle ray cruising the shoreline, which was a highlight for everyone. After a delicious lunch on board National Geographic Orion, we sailed towards Picton and learned from field staff lectures in the afternoon. What a fantastic and unforgettable day!
2/27/2023
Read
National Geographic Orion
Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Russell
On February 6th, 1840, a treaty was signed between British and Māori leaders here at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. This document would come to define many aspects of the relationship between Māori and British people up to the present day. This important cultural and historic site holds many stories and offers an unparalleled learning opportunity for all of us, as well as a way to contextualize the voyage we have been on together. We started by visiting Ngātokimatawhaorua, the largest Māori war canoe in existence. It was built from kauri trees and first launched in 1940 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the treaty. It is a powerful symbol of Māori unity, and it reflects the history of Kupe. The first Polynesian to land in Aotearoa, Kupe arrived in a voyaging canoe called Matawhaorua. From there, we walked the same trail the leaders walked on the day they signed the treaty in 1840. We saw the Treaty House, which was home to a British representative sent by the King of England in the 1800s. A highlight of the day was the Māori cultural performance that took place inside the intricately carved and peaceful whare. Expedition leader Andrew Peacock gave a short speech in response to our Māori hosts as part of the protocol for entering and attending the event. After that, we enjoyed a sampling of dance, song, and cultural interpretation that left us with a deeper understanding of these Māori houses and their significance. In contrast to the morning, we then visited the town of Russell. The site was taken over by British colonizers and became a hub for whaling, trading, and general debauchery. Today it is a tidy tourist town, and our guides pointed out the highlights – including church pew cushions depicting intricate scenes of local wildlife and maritime living. We head to Auckland now after a very full final day of this voyage.
