Around here (Otago) somewhere, there are Yellow-eyed penguins. Harder to find these days. I was now now headed north toward Oamaru... another penguin hotspot. Before that though, a quick stop to see the famous, but a bit more damaged these days, Moeraki boulders.
Ridiculously big spherical geodes, found on the beach at Moeraki - which is the middle of nowhere, kinda! It was easy enough to park and walk 5 minutes down the beach to find them. In the wee hours, it was just me and one other couple. And that couple lasted as long as it took to take a selfie, before walking away, leaving me to explore alone.
Later that morning, in Oamaru, I found a beautiful beach littered with lazy fur seals and I sat with them for an hour as they yawned or dragged themselves out into the kelp for some play time. This place was where I'd come back to at sunset for a possible penguin adventure too. The beach closes at 3pm and all viewing is done from high on the cliffs though.
I had enough time to figure out the town waste management place that offered potable and non-potable water for vans and I refilled mine so that washing dishes and taking sponge baths was back on the table as I camped. After a bit of food prep, and a decent meal, I found myself with 4 others, waiting and watching for any ol' penguin to emerge from the waves. Alas no. (But when you later discover that only 6 penguins call this beach home, it's easy to understand why penguin disappointment is easier to find than a real penguin!)
Did I want acutal brick and mortar accommodation tonight? Not so much. I once again opted for a more natural setting and near Kurow I fell asleep in my van, watching stars twinkle above. I only had a couple more nights like this... It was already starting to feel bittersweet.
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