35:02.84S 173:44.49E

We hitched another ride on the north-going tide for the 12 nm trip to Whangaroa Harbour.  On the chart the entrance looked very narrow indeed and, compared to that of the Bay of Islands, it is, but it’s very straightforward.  We immediately liked this very striking landscape and, once inside the harbour, there are many protected anchorages which we were keen to explore over the coming days.

First of all we made our way up to the village of Whangaroa and, along with a couple of other cruising yachts, anchored off the marina.  After lunch we decided to walk up to St Paul’s Mount which was recommended in our pilot book.  Although it wasn’t the clearest of days, the views from the top were pretty impressive nonetheless.

Entering Whangaroa Harbour:

To St Paul’s Mount and the view from the Summit:

And the early morning beauty: