MARITEA - New Zealand 2023

Back in New Zealand and a lovely reunion with Maritéa for Eric & Kelly, after three years of forced absence…

Tuesday 31 January 2023

Whangarei

It was a moving reunion with Maritéa, who has been waiting patiently for us during three years, under the care of our friend Laurent. We can hardly believe our eyes, so beautiful is the boat after her recent restoration. It's hard to believe that she's celebrating her 47th birthday this year...

From February 12th to 15th, 2023

Whangarei

Welcome to summer! Our stay got off to a flying start with the passage of a cyclone over the North Island, which caused a fair amount of material damage. In Whangarei, the river burst its banks and carries a lot of debris, but the marina is very well protected and no boats are damaged, despite the violent winds. On board Maritéa, we barely notice what is happening outside, such is the boat comfortable and well insulated. But we are very happy not to be at sea…

Sunday 19 & Monday 20 February 2023

At sea

Finally at sea! The good weather has returned after the cyclone, and we set sail from Whangarei. After going down the river and a first night at anchor in Urqhuarts Bay, we hoist the sails of Maritéa, for the first time in… seven years!! The emotion of this moment is indescribable…

A quiet, sunny crossing to Great Barrier Island, with superb light upon arrival in the late afternoon.

Tuesday 21 February 2023

Karaka Bay (Great Barrier Island)

We are invited to visit the Omara Center, which welcomes young people from the educational program ofHillary Outdoors. It is also a place of stay and exchange, of artistic creation and spiritual research. We are warmly welcomed there at the time of the traditional morning songs, whose religious connotation does not detract from the emotion they provide. After breakfast shared with the community, we set off to climb the hill overlooking the bay. The view of the island is spectacular.

Thursday 23 February 2023

Port Fitzroy (Great Barrier Island)

Having managed to sneak in and anchor in the small bay of Port Fitzroy, we explore the Glenfern sanctuary, a regional park of 83 hectares inhabited by all kinds of endemic birds, as fascinating to observe as they are pleasant to hear.

In the afternoon, the bay is invaded by many boats participating in a game fishing competition. Amused at first, we end up fleeing the anchorage which has become much too crowded.

From Friday 24 to Monday 27 Februray 2023

Kairara Bay (Great Barrier Island)

Several days of stopover in this magnificent bay; first we let a strong gale blow through, then enjoy a fine day's sailing along the west coast of the island before returning to Kairara.

This is where we set off to conquer the highest point of the island, an absolutely magnificent walk through the lush forest. We return just before nightfall, after… almost 12 hours of hiking!!

Tuesday 28 February 2023

At sea

A beautiful crossing entirely under sail, from Great Barrier Island to Tutukaka. Ideal conditions, propelling Maritéa at more than 8 knots the whole way...

Wednesday 1st March 2023

Tutukaka

This is where we meet our friends Laurent and Sylvie, who are embarking on a mini-cruise to Whangarei.

Thursday 2 & Friday 3 March 2023

Urquharts Bay & Whangarei

Back under sail to Urquharts Bay, where we spend the last night at anchor. After a nice walk to Smuggler’s Bay on Friday morning, we head upriver in the afternoon to return to Whangarei.