We chose to dine ‘al fresco’ to watch a stunning sunset. We were now approaching New Zealand for the Bay of Islands, our penultimate stop en route to our final destination, Auckland.
The ‘Regatta’ dropped anchor in the bay and tender-ferried us to the shore at Paihia. The last time we visited, we enjoyed a trip to Russell, which holds an important place in history. It was the country’s first seaport, its first European settlement, and its first capital in New Zealand.
On this occasion, we chose to have a cultural experience in a Māori war canoe. After a short walk from the tender drop-off point, we were inducted into the experience with some Māori words. Then, we were treated to a safety brief, life jackets, and a tribal performance of the Haka before we boarded our canoe for a strenuous paddle to the Haruru Falls.
Historically, the Māori people of New Zealand performed haka to demonstrate a tribe’s pride, strength, and unity. The haka is often recognised for energising warriors on the battlefield; however, it also serves as a traditional means to celebrate, entertain, and welcome, visiting tribes.
ooOoo