Kia Ora I tenei tahi ra
From the Good Ship R.Tucker Thompson, hidden away in Putakokota Bay, anchored up at rest after a first day out and about. After leaving our dock at Opua, hoisting of the foresail arms were replaced with waving arms as we slid down the channel past Russell, Waitangi and round Tapeka. Introducing ourselves to each other, having a mean macaroni cheese and cleaning up. Then the harnesses were on deck for some going aloft lessons. Tiriti was first for his feet to leave the deck, Ryan, Josh, Blake Daniel , Joe, Natalya. Others to go out on the bowsprit Waiorangi, Paige, Maggie, Tom, and Kathy. We anchored in Otupoho with a brief introduction to Project Island Song, a restoration of how the islands once were, on the beach we immediately saw kiwi prints and heard the tieke in the ngahere. Around Moturua on the loop walk brought us back to the ship as the sun was dipping the headland, anchor was raised and we headed away to our overnight anchorage. A swim for those keen, the swing always gets the reluctant ones in. A chance to orientate the trainees about the ship then some korero about the week ahead. The manuals came out and the first test of thirty minutes silence. Dinner is in the oven, the anchor light is up, it’s quiet. 30 minutes is up, normal programme resumes. Cards , chatter, laughter as we settle into our first night with the excitement of tomorrow on the edge of our thoughts.
Ma te wa
