Visit to Waitangi

Waitangi is the "birthplace of New Zealand", where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between representatives of the Queen and tribal leaders for some of Maori. It is a complicated subject for New Zealand, since it is not clear that the English and Maori translations mean the same thing.





The Treaty Grounds are across the bay from Russell, so it is back on a ferry we go. When we arrive, we take a tuk-tuk (medium-sized motorized cart) up the road to the Treaty Grounds. It is a beautiful area with a mix of English and Maori artifacts. The walking paths are particularly well done, with raised paths leading through the trees. The area feels much larger than it really is, due to the interesting design. Alexander was particularly impressed with the neat vegetable garden (it reminded him of Rabbit's garden from "Winnie the Pooh"). The cafe was particularly good for lunch.