Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Just a spit away from chez OFs is the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and it was today's treat.  This is where the historic treaty was signed in 1840 between the Maori tribes and the British.

We started in a very well laid out museum which gave plenty of background before we met our mouldy guide (seriously that is how he pronounced Maori).  Anyway this chap (built like an all black prop) was a delight - full of information, wit and happiness.  He walked and talked for an hour on New Zealand history, natural history, Maori culture, etc.  We were instructed in canoes (waka), Maori meeting houses and signing the treaty.  The grounds are beautifully kept with walkways through a mangrove forest and native bush including valuable Kauri trees.  Of whimsical note is that the first British Resident (appointed by the King) brought his own house with him - flat packed from Australia (our guide mused whether the Allen keys were included!).

At the end of the tour we were treated to cultural show in the Maori meeting house which included dancing, singing and the haka.  All good fun, photogenic and instructive.  I now know why the tongue is stuck out during a haka*

Lunch was taken in the gardens being pestered by ducks who just sat at your feet like labradors (except no fur, etc.) looking up at you for food.  One duck was prone to stroking my leg with her beak to remind me she was still waiting.  OF1 was mightily unimpressed.

Later in the afternoon we visited Keri Keri where one of the earliest mission stations still survives.  A bit Northern Premier after the mornings star turn but very pretty.  I also had a hokey pokey which you lick rather than put your left leg in.  It is vanilla and honeycomb icecream.

I am please to announce that Jocye has been sacked.  Our headmistress on the sat-nav has been replaced by Bin.  He may be spelt Ben and have a speech problem but he at least tells you to put on your jangles and go out an enjoy yourself when you reach your destination.

Back to the hovel by the sea to write blogs, WhatsApps and postcards on the balcony before firing up the BBQ and having lamb chops. The weather has been 24, blue skies, sunny with a pleasant light breeze and more of the same is promised tomorrow when we are on an Island hopping adventure.

*the sharp end of the Maori fighting stick (a taiaha) is called the areso which translates to  tongue and is the stabbing end!