On the way to Kaikoura we had a detour inland and went to see castle hill rocks, they were basically huge rock formations in the middle of nowhere but they were pretty impressive. It was raining though so the walk around them was really slippy but for once I didn't fall over.

Kaikoura is a lovely town on the coast, we found a great campsite right next to the beach and found a spot where we could have a campfire, Casson was off right away looking for wood. Unfortunately the wind picked up massively and we ended up forgetting about the fire and moving the van to a more sheltered spot as it was really exposed.

The following day we were going sperm whale watching, we were really lucky as we saw a sperm whale come up for air and dive twice and also saw loads of dolphins, we LOVED it.

That afternoon we pulled into the campsite and got a great spot, all we needed was beer but we'd ran out and we weren't supposed to be buying anymore but it seemed a crime not to have one. Cue Casson going back to town in the van and me staking out our camping spot with a couple of deckchairs. He was supposed to come back with a few but it we ended up with a crate. We spent the evening on the beach around a campfire.

The following day we drove to Kean point to walk along the coast and to see the seals. There were loads of them lazing about on rocks and benches. Yet again everyone was pretty close to them taking pictures but as soon as Casson approached this big black ugly one flipped and starting barking and coming for him, I don't know what it is but they just don't like him so Casson 0: Nature about 26. In future he's getting the zoom lens out and will be taking pictures from a discreet distance.

It was almost lunch time by now so we called in at a seafood van on the way back and had fresh grilled prawns and a grilled fish sandwich which was so good!

Next stop Akaroa and Christchurch for a SCOT reunion........