A good start to the day seeing a pair of kingfishers at the ferry jetty in Paihia.
On the way to Urupukapuka Island we passed below Tapeka Point, the turnaround point of yesterday's hike in Russell.
The water was clear and blue and green. Our ferry was a sight-seeing boat, and continued on to several "top sights" after dropping us off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka. Check out the bleacher seats on the bow of the catamaran.
Urupukapuka is small. We circumnavigate the island on the interconnected coastal tracks in about 6 hours with many breaks to enjoy the views. There are pastures for sheep on many parts of the hilly island, and walking on the wide green meadows, punctuated by large trees, was lots of fun.
It seemed that there was always a beach in sight, beautiful anchorages with sailboats, as well as nearby islands.
Often, the way across a meadow would be a simple mowed path.
We ate our picnic lunch a bit early as the view was awesome.
On several high points, there were ruins of Maori food storage pits (1st below) and fortifications.
The west side of the island had coves with steep rocky walls and no sandy beach.
The last part of the walk there were more meadows (with sheep) and a grove of super big trees, one with a rope swing.
Urupukapuka Beach, close to the jetty and set up for beachgoers, was particularly nice.
Back at the Paihia jetty.
Bonus Short 360 Degree Video.
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