The Waitangi Treaty Grounds ....
.... the birthplace of modern New Zealand that we visited today .... and learned among other things that nowadays only 17% of New Zealanders are Maori and that they have only...


Published: 02.03.2026
.... explored from the water and from the air!
Today we took the ferry from Paihia to Russell again, to first explore the town: Both places have developed as whaling towns. However, while Paihia has become a bustling and modern holiday resort, Russell has been able to preserve its traditions more strongly and remains calm and quaint.
From the actual town of Russell, we walked to the opposite side to Longbeach and spent the morning and afternoon at a lovely beach .... where Karsten was able to 'snack' from the barbecue of a New Zealand team outing due to his open and direct nature. Our lunch was secured!
In the early evening, we had another highlight of our sabbatical: A beautiful helicopter flight over the Bay of Islands in warm, evening light. What could be more beautiful?
