11 Jan 2022

Historic Whangamumu Harbour and The Hole in the Rock

After our travels northwards yesterday Heritage Explorer spent the night anchored in Whangaruru Harbour and, during breakfast, we were underway again escorted by the Buller's Shearwaters as we sailed the short distance to the beautiful small harbour of Whangamumu.

Heritage Explorer glided into the bay where, early in the 20th century, one of New Zealand's largest whaling stations had been located. Today nature is reclaiming the landscape as the forest regenerates across the hills and the remains of the whaling station are being repurposed by nature with a particularly impressive Pohutukawa tree emerging from the boiler.

Following a stroll and exploration, including by kayak for some, we set sail for Cape Brett. Beneath glorious blue skies Captain Jamie positioned Heritage Explorer in the mouth of the 'Hole in the Rock' where we enjoyed the commanding views. This was followed by the opportunity to snorkel with snapper in one of the nearby protected bays or swim from Explorer's rear platform. By evening we had arrived at Whangaroa Harbour where we plan to spend a quiet night at anchor.

Image © A.Russ, Heritage Expeditions