We then continued our drive towards the coast along the Waitaki Gorge which began at the Benmore Dam, New Zealand's second largest hydro electric dam. Deciding to take the long, more scenic route to Oamaru, we were greeted by rapidly changing scenery, through eerie valleys and "Elephant Rocks" just one example of the mysterious landscapes created millions of years ago.
We then passed through Oamaru, an old fish export port, famous for its victorian quarter on to our nights accomodation, Waitaki Waters Lodge. After a nice walk along the beach towards the estuary and a really healthy meal (packet noodles) it was time to find the rare blue penguins. They certainly knew how to hold an audience, arriving 45 minutes late, but proving very much worth the wait...ohhh little rhyme. They climbed out of the water, up the rocks, posed for a few photos then waddled across the road to their nests. One of the most entertaining things we have both seen. Seriously, picture mini penguins strutting along a road.
On our way home, we made friends with a little owl (thats the name of the species apparently) who also decided it was a night for posing. After our cold nights sleep in the cabin and a cheeky skype/facetime with the parents it was time to move on again. A short hop down the east coast to stay with Mike Barnsley and his family. The drive served up more geological delights, with the highlight being the Moeraki Boulders, giant spherical boulders that looked as though they had been plonked on the beach. A trek up (emphasis on the word up) Trotters Gorge with the company of an Aussie and his Swedish girlfriend gave amazing views over the gorge and on to the coast, with a close fly by of two amazing New Zealand Falcon.
We finally arrived in Dunedin and then found the Barnsley's house and were welcomed by a home cooked food and some well needed vegetables, animals and good company. This has taken us forever so ENJOY! Please dont expect this much next time! xxx
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