A Most Surprising and Fascinating Trip

Yesterday (21.June.09), Simon drove us up the coast and unto a park just a few miles past Kaikoura. He was mentioning about seal pups playing while their parents are off to sea to hunt for food. Little did we know that it was a sight to behold, and one that would stick with you especially if you love animals.

The trip as it is was already a sight in its own right. We departed Christchurch through the small town of Kaiapoi and unto SH1. The scenery kept us awake the whole time, with barren trees because of winter, and the snow capped mountains of the Southern Alps clearly visible even if its a hundred miles away. Our drive swept us through some quaint towns such as the balut's favourite Omihi (which still elicits a smile on my face even though I have been past this town more than a couple of times already) and Cheviot, before winding up the mountains and down into Kaikoura District.

We also saw a hawk by the road feasting on a dead possum. We drove past sheep farms, deer farms, and even some wine estates with its vast grapevines.

The last leg took us on a coastal drive with the sea waves pounding on rocks to our right, and the gentle hills with streaks of snow at the top to our left.

As we reached Kaikoura, we stopped at a very nice cafe to get ourselves some lunch, courtesy of Simon. Onie, Christine, and Simon had pan fried fish and I got myself a very nice and creamy seafood chowder. Bea had potato wedges.

After lunch, we pressed on and reached a park just beside the road. It was a mere 10 minute walk up a slight incline to reach a small waterfalls. But that is not what we were there for. We were there for the baby seals. See for yourself!