Okiato Historic Reserve

This place doesn't look like much. A spectacular view over the Bay of Islands, a small fence around a well - what's there to say?

But if you dig deeper there's quite a bit of information about this spot which has been named as NZ's first capital from 1840-1841. The land and buildings that were here were owned by James Clendon who ran a very successful trading station. However when Governor William Hobson arrived here he had to find a site for a government settlement and Okiato was picked.

William Hobson had a surveyor draw up plans for a new town to be developed which was to be named "Russell". The site was never followed through with as intended and the buildings that were left there by James Clendon formed formed the first foundations of the area.

In 1842 William Hobson moved the capital to Auckland leaving the police magistrate at Okiato and in  a few months later the government house and it's offices were destroyed by a fire. This old well is all that remains at this particular spot.

Linking up with Skywatch Friday.

Opua Wharf Ferry

First time I have ever travelled on the Opua Ferry in the weekend and it was a very quick trip too. Fullers which is a national NZ company own alot of ferry services just about everywhere. This one is a transport ferry so once we had parked our car and it had started on it's way we got out and enjoyed the fresh air. Our destination was to be taken to Okiato Wharf which is a small settlement just before Russell.

The other side of Opua has many yachts and boats moored with what looks like a private boat shed in the distance. There are also quite a few houses and baches along the side of the cliffs.

You could almost say that these boats moored alongside the wharf are mini super yachts. I've seen much bigger ones.

This one here is owned by Jemison Marine and is available for hire. It has air conditioning, a gym and wifi connection. It is 95.14ft and can accommodate 8 guests overnight . Posh aye?