The morning presented calm waters as National Geographic Orion made her way into the waters outside of the town of Kaikoura. Soon our guests set off for a variety of wildlife expeditions, including an excursion with albatrosses and a stunning encounter with a sperm whale. The dive team descended in a local, marine-protected area and found many of the southern rock lobsters Kaikoura is named after. The truest highlights were the dolphin encounters that included three different species – common bottlenose, dusky, and the smallest of all, the endemic Hector’s dolphin.
1/31/2024
Read
National Geographic Orion
Waitangi and Russell, Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Kia Ora and greetings to all our readers. The Bay of Islands in the North Island of Aotearoa, New Zealand, could not have been more beautiful as National Geographic Orion slipped in through her turquoise waters. A light chilly wind with classical sunshine made for a great day to experience this special place. The goal of today’s expedition was to immerse our guests in the tradition and culture of the New Zealand native peoples. Waitangi is one of the cultural centres for the Maori people, the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between the Maori chiefs of Aotearoa and the British sovereignty back in the 1800’s. Guests were introduced to the ancient war canoes, at least one hundred years old, as they were being prepared to sail on Waitangi Celebration Day on February 6th. Guests marvelled at the carved artistry and designs and were thrilled to be led onto the flagstaff grounds of Waitangi with National Geographic Orion in the background. An invitation was extended to all guests to enter the Wharenui (ceremonial house) to experience a performance presented by the Maori dancers. This was a great way to begin our voyage through the Pacific Ocean as we said farewell to New Zealand with fond memories of her people. Cheers!
