Our Rangatahi had a big day yesterday. In the morning they pumped up our rubber rafts and paddled ashore to go for a hikoi along the North Coast of Coromandel Peninsular. Followed by a lunch ashore where they played a few games before heading back to the ship. Our afternoon was spent testing their back flips on the rope swing and getting outside our comfort zones by climbing the mast. The day ended with Spirits famous Mini Olympics in the aft cabin after a delicious dinner.

Kiaora koutou, yesterday was epic. After cleanup the team headed ashore at Motu Rotoroa to play games and see a working wildlife sanctuary. The Takahe are known to be pretty fearless there and hung out and watched while everyone ran around and goofed off. On returning to the ship we set sail out into Tikapa Moana running north to Te Tara-o-te-ika-o-Maui/Coromandel, Muriwai/Port Jackson. We covered 25 nautical miles and arrived just as it was getting dark. Today the teams gone for a walk so it's pretty peaceful onboard but I'll tell you about that tomorrow.

Morena whanau, our team is doing amazing in this chilly weather. Yesterday after cleanup we spent the morning learning how to speak sailor and then putting their new language into practice by setting sail. We zigzaged our way up Tamaki straight, playing games and getting to know each other on the way. Once we got to Ponui even though it was wet and cold everyone was keen for a swim. The day finished with games in the aft cabin. In the words of Dr Seuss "although it is wet and the sun is not sunny we can have lot's of fun that is funny"

Tena koutou katoa, we set off yesterday afternoon and anchored near Motuihe. The first 24 hours is all about getting settled in and learning how to keep ourselves safe while onboard. Today started at 06:30 with a morning swim then a hot breakfast. The team are currently cleaning before we set sail and amp up the adventure.

We are off! Heading to Motuihe Island for the first night of our adventure! ⛵︎