Day Dawns in the Hell-hole of the Pacific

It seems strange to think that title was used for Russell, which seems a very cultured place now. It refers to its position as a shore station for the whaling fleets at the turn of the 19th century. Things were so bad that missionaries came out and eventually tamed the town. That seems appropriate somehow as the wharf that I blipped yesterday does remind me of the buildings in the Robin Williams Popeye movie of a few years ago.

I got out early this morning and walked up the beach. The sun was still rising behind me and giving some great definition to the sky. After breakfast we walked up to Flagstaff Hill which gives great views over the town and over the Bay of Islands. We were pleased to see a Weka, which is a flightless bird and a member of the Rail family. They're threatened but doing better in this part of NZ. We've bought a book so we can identify the birds we're seing (may be). The historic Anglican church was good to see including holes from musket shot sustained in the skirmishes between the British and the Maori warriors, one of whom is buried in the churchyard beneath a fine monument.

We've had a little rain this afternoon. I don't mind it, especially when it gives good skies like we've had and it doesn't last long. We head southwards to Matakana tomorrow. Thank you for all your comments, stars and hearts on my recent blips. I'm not able to comment or reply very much but you can be sure they're all read and very much appreciated.

David