Tourist in Bay of Island brush off Northland power cut

Celebrity Solstice pictured on a sunnier day than the one passengers are currently experiencing in Northland.

Thousands of tourists arrived in the Bay of Islands this morning on the Celebrity Solstice cruise ship to be greeted by storm clouds and the power cut which had knocked out electricity across the Far North.

Generators were running in central Paihia, keeping some shops open but most were forced to put out signs advising opening was delayed until late in the atfernoon.

An art and craft market set up on the town's waterfront reserve gave tourists from the ship shopping opportunities while more established retailers were forced to close doors.

Those ship passengers spoken to were not bothered by the power cut, finding kayaking trips and scenic tours were untroubled by the power cut and offered plenty of opportunities to pass time in the town.

Bill Bussell from California in the United States spent the morning on a kayak and said the power cut had yet to impact on their visit to the Bay of Islands.

"I see some generators running so I think we'll be fine."

Australian tourist Rebecca Archer said passengers were told about half an hour before arriving that the power had gone out but were unable to pass on any information about when it would be restored.

"All the locals have still got their markets out. We took a trip over to Russell and went through the shops that were open - cash only, but no worries. That's life - things happen."

Ron and Peggy Furst from Illinois in the US were effusive over their visit to the Bay of Islands, despite the power cut.

"I really like it here," said Ron Furst. " It's peaceful, it's clean - I admire the cleanliness and the friendliness of the people.

"Most of the shops are open. There's a couple that requiure generators. For the most part, the local vendors are able to do business. It's really great."