New Zealand 3🇦🇺

Day 3 in the fascinating world of New Zealand. 

Today our sole excursion is a visit to Waitangi Treaty Grounds.  Waitangi is a pretty cool place in that it celebrates, and teaches the Maori tribal culture. At this location a treaty was signed by the British and Maori chiefs in 1840. The historical grounds were donated on the 100th anniversary of the signing establishing the historical site for all to visit. The articles of the treaty affects all New Zealand's from it's inception to today and beyond. There is in essence 2 treaties, one in English and the other Maori. They are not the same. The Maori were forced to obey terms of the treaty that they were not aware of nor would they have agreed to. Basically the issue was sovereignty over their land. Progressively over the last 170 years, their land is being taken away.  

The flag pole is placed on the exact location where the treaty was signed. In the distance you can see the town of Russell. In the 1800's, Russell was the original capital city and hub of maritime commerce. It also was notoriously a bit rough. The nickname was, hell hole.  Many convicts from Britain and Australia arrived here. Well, you know how much civility that might be...  The British moved the capital to Auckland and subsequently to Wellington. The loss of money to Russell was not received well. This contributed, along with the deception by the British to the Maori, and probably many other factors, to the New Zealand wars. The Maori fought bravely but ultimately were over come. Waitangi is a most important cite to visit in learning and experiencing New Zealand history. 

Here are some pics of these very historical grounds and buildings 

Maori meeting house. 

This boat weighs 6 tons, carved from 3 Kauri trees and capacity of 180 warriors. 

Russell is in the distance across the bay. 

We had the delight to be in the audience for a traditional Maori performance. Very fun!

Haruru falls. Took this photo just before the rain ☔️ hit us. Nearly soaked on the run to the bus. Good thing for quick dry clothes....

Charlotte's Kitchen for a yummy lunch and libation. Named Charlotte in salute to a fabulously naughty lady. What a character she was...

Tomorrow off to Auckland. Meet 10 of our travel mates and off for more adventures. Stay tuned