Golden reflections over the Pacific Ocean

Welcome to the Bay of Islands, New Zealand. This beautiful spot of in the North of the country is famous for its coastline, many islands and strong sea faring tradition. It's equally famous for being the region to host the Treaty of Waitangi initial signing, host the first capital of New Zealand, in Russell and was a source of wild shenanigans for many years. Whaling, trading and adventuring all helped contribute to the already rich tapestry of life.

And that bring us to where we are today, Cape Brett headland. Located to the south of the Bay, the headland juts out, forming the southern boundary. Access is granted courtesy of the local Maori, or take a boat. But today we are walking the trail.

Just north of Rawhiti is Haurai Bay, with a beautiful beach and small community. We walk through the archway and start walking through the forest. The trail is only 16kms long but is steep at times. Gradually there are more and more glimpses of the ocean below. After a couple of hours, a lot longer than the suggested time due to stops to appreciate the views and wildlife, we arrive at our destination. Cape Brett. There's the lighthouse perched at the top of the steep slope, and the old lighthouse keepers cottage, which is our over night accommodation, further down the slope. Down the bottom, at the shoreline, seals bask on the rocks, making the most of the late afternoon sun.

And then it is sunset. Golden rays radiate out as the sun slowly sinks beneath the tranquil purple Pacific Ocean, stretching across the broad horizon. Waves look like ripples on a pond, blown in the breeze. Clouds radiate shades of gold through pink, contrasting starkly with the teal blue sky above, with the green, grassy clifftops forming a border, focusing the eye on the scene in front.

And now it's time for me to take my leave. Why don't you stay a while longer and take in the views? Feel the breeze and watch the ripples on the ocean below. Check out the range of colours as the sun sinks below the horizon. Take the opportunity to sit and feel the grass beneath you. Smell the air and taste the salt from the spray. Watch the last few seabirds take advantage of the last of the light as they swoop and dive for fish. Time seems to slow down, nothing is done in a hurry. There is no rush, no pressure, no phone, no internet service. It's just you, with the golden glow, green grass and purple Ocean, with the teal sky and clouds wrapped around you in silence, shielding you. Take inspiration from their example of gradual change, of things being achieved in due course, of being different from others, of being interconnected because of their differences, and the beauty of the individual components contributing to the whole.

Thank you for joining me today and sharing some of your time. I hope that our walk together has helped, and that you found something to inspire you on your life journey. Travel safe and I look forward to you joining me again. If you know someone who might benefit from todays walk, please share it with them. And if you would like to share your experience today with me. or chat about places that have helped you, I'd be honoured.