So my first day has gone peaceably. Breakfast in bed reading the paper, wondering what bird it is makes a noise like an old mobile phone. Paihia is an almost entirely tourist place – at least 4 backpacker’s hostels (one with a bra on the grass outside. A good party one presumes?), several bars apparently specialising in beer and pizza, gifty souvenir shops and many trips round the bay. Although you can’t dislike anywhere with three ice cream shops!

They also have regular cruise ship visitations.

Discovered as well that it was the site of the first Christian missionary settlement, the first church, the first printing press and the first British governor landed here. Apparently the local Maoris had invited Victoria to send someone to take charge (and you have to wonder what led up to that).

Oh, and this. I did an internet search and came up with nothing. Feels like something someone should start.