The National Geographic Orion arrived bright and early today in the small town of Napier, the Art Deco capital of New Zealand. While navigating through the bay to our anchorage, our guests were welcomed by calm seas and a pod of common dolphins surfing the wake of the ship. We disembarked the ship for morning activities in New Zealand’s primary export seaport of the northeast. Activities included an Art Deco tour and a Hawke’s Bay winery visit. We also visited the Cape Kidnapper’s gannet colony, the largest in the world, where visitors can admire up to 25,000 gannets. Once back on the vessel and under way to Abel Tasman, the ship was visited by seabirds and dolphins at sunset. The crew treated guests to an incredible New Zealand dinner complete with kiwi bird sculptures made from fruits and vegetables to top off the night.
1/31/2024
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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!
