Auckland Anniversary Day

Today is Auckland Anniversary Day, a public holiday in the northern part of New Zealand's North Island.  It commemorates the founding of the first British colony in the Bay of Islands (now greater Auckland) in 1840.

It is a beautiful, sunny day with temperatures expected to rise to 24C (75F). In addition to the continuing Cloud Market and the Buskers Festival there are a number of aquatic activities today in Auckland.  We catch the 9 am ferry and soon are walking along the seaport to some of the celebration venues.

 We begin with the dragon boat races in the viaduct.  The teams have come from across New Zealand and prepare for their race with stretches, exercises and a chant/cheer.  They load, then paddle determinedly to the starting point.  The starting signal starts the teams paddling in rhythm to their drummer with the beat increasing as they approach the finish line.  The determination and enjoyment shows in their faces and they pass the finish line, whether first or last.

Next up is a tugboat race.  The boats gather in the bay, with the captains having fun spraying water or "nudging" each other.  Then they line up and are off.  This is when we realize that tugboats are not known for speed. 😳
 
We stop for a late brunch at O'Hagens Irish restaurant.  I order the chicken waffles with chipotle maple syrup, streaky bacon and lemon creme fraiche.  William has the full Irish breakfast - 2 eggs, bacon, beans, grilled tomato, and a sausage.  Both are very good, but I think I win for best meal.