Islands of the Gulf

Elisabeth Easther follows her mother's footsteps along the islands of the Hauraki Gulf, discovering how they have changed since her mother visited them over 50 years ago.

Elisabeth explores the history of Governor Grey's mansion on the island of Kawau, early Maori farms on Motutapu, and a Tiritiri Matangi lighthouse build in the 1860s.

Elisabeth visits three islands that are sanctuaries for many of the endangered species of the Hauraki Gulf.

Elisabeth meets people who have an island niche in the Hauraki Gulf, including a singer who's a faith healer, some successful grape growers who have no knowledge about grapes, and a charter fishing boat operator.

Elisabeth meets some colourful and unusual people who call the Hauraki Gulf home, including a walking track builder, a part-time mermaid, and a Welsh-born bird photographer.