Northland

Gareth managed to take an extra couple of days off work, and so took his Mum and Dad on a flying visit to Northland.

An essential first stop is Kawakawa, where there are "funky loos"







First stop was Russell, a historic settlement whose original inhabitants behaved so badly it triggered the English to send a representative to New Zealand. This process led to the English negotiating a treaty with the Maori, which effectively founded the nation.



Vehicle ferry to Russell




Beautiful sunset




View from flagstaff hill




Mum and Dad in front of the flagstaff






Given the history of the place, we decided to take a tour where the original Treaty of Waitangi was signed.



Waiting for the tour




The three flags, British, Confederated tribes, New Zealand




Meeting house at Waitangi




Walk through the bush around Waitangi


Next stop was the Hokianga Harbour, a beautifully remote area surrounded by giant sand dunes. It marked a great staging post before the trip to the wonderful Kauri forest the next morning.



The Hokianga Harbour




Enjoying the hotel pool




G&T for the boys




Room with a view




Panoramic hotel




Tane Mahuta, God of the Forest




Tree hugger