Today we woke to the sound of rain in Mount Cook village and felt very lucky to have been doing the big hike in the sun yesterday! Cathal started off the day with a little run along the glacier track whilst Nicole slept off a bit of minor sunstroke. Turns out living in Scotland for so long makes the sun seem a lot stronger when you get it!

We began the drive to Oamaru, stopping for some coffee and cake in the fantastically named Twizel. On the way we made detours for the Clay Cliffs at Omarama and the Moeraki boulders. Both were spectacular sights (and like a visit to the sweet shop for 2 geologists). 

On arriving at Oamaru we checked into our motel, where we were welcomed by the most friendly kiwi we have met so far. Apart from being unable to pronounce Cathal's name (who can, anyway?) he directed us to the local brewery. We enjoyed a delicious pizza and played a few games of boccia. Of course, we had to stop whilst Cathal was still in the lead. The town of Oamaru was well worth a stop. A beautiful, open harbour area crowns the centre of the town, next to the fabulous Victorian sector. The old buildings are brought to a new life with vintage Victorian themed art/sculpture houses and shops. A personal favourite were the miniature book libraries located in odd crannies and spaces. 

At the close of the day came the highlight. We had tickets to see the blue penguins come in to nest at dusk, and they were with every penny. The tiny penguins swam and skipped through a choppy sea to the small rocky beach, scrambling up to the top to reach their nests. At only around 30cm high and weighing just 1kg, it must be a monumental climb for the penguins. Of course, those who'd had the most successful days fishing at sea must have come in weighing at least double that! These little penguins had to scurry in on all fours, dragging their full bellies - a very cute sight. 

Having gotten very chilly watching the penguins we were happy to crawl into a warm, cosy bed, ready for a big sleep before the adventure continues tomorrow.