Bay of Islands (Waitangi), New Zealand

Bay of Islands is on the northeast corner of New Zealand. It is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed by British soldiers and Maori chiefs in 1840 giving rights to the Indigenous Maori. Unfortunately there were some differences in the English and Maori translations so litigation continues. None the less, it continuous to be an important document.

The Bay of Islands economy is primarily agriculture--fruits such as kiwi and avocados, cattle--and sailing.

The Old Stone Store, built in 1832, is the oldest surviving commercial building in New Zealand. Next to it is the oldest surviving European building, the Kemp House. It was built in 1822 for the Rev. John Butler and occupied by the Kemp family after 1832.

We also saw some colorful public toilets designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwassert in the 1970s.Read more