Spirit of New Zealand

Last Sunday we were lucky enough to get a trip on the Spirit of New Zealand. It’s a sail training ship operated by The Spirit of Adventure Trust. One of Noreen’s dads is second mate on it and we cruised in comfort in the crew mess.

Here it is tied up at Queen’s Wharf prior to boarding.

It's a three masted boat, about 45 metres in length and has a powerful diesel engine for when there isn't enough wind.

The master controls the sailing from this position just in front of the mizzen mast. In bad weather there are duplicate controls in the cabin which also houses the radar and other modern aids to navigation.

Noreen thought of channeling her inner Kate Winslet but in the end settles for something more practical.

In the interests of balance here I am at the stern.

It was a fine day, although a little blustery, as you can see in this view looking aft.

We sailed around Matiu/Somes Island

and had races with several small boats out on the water.

I was interested to see the Eastbourne Ferry flying the flag that we are currently having a referendum on whether it should be our new national flag. 

Back on land, in Frank Kitts Park, there is a fairground set up as part of the Arts Festival. The roundabouts are built of recycled materials and are hand powered. (Admission is free for the children but parents have to provide the grunt!)

This Ferris wheel uses toilet seats.

This little girl doesn't seem too sure about it though.

The rocket is made from an old pram

and bicycling in comfort for ladies.