We were up early and raring to go this morning, eating breakfast in the luxurious Camp Estate kitchen, chatting with our hosts Nina and Roger. We were intrigued to learn that Roger used to be in charge at a boarding school for senior boys so hosting at an up-market lodge is quite a change for him but, as Nina says, you get a better class of grafitti, and if people don't behave he just calls their parents!

After breakfast we set off for the 25 minute drive further along the Otago Peninsula to Wellers Rock where we were to join our Monarch Widlife cruise. After several visits we have come to love this particular area. It is just so beautiful in all weathers and so much to see of different types of wildlife. Today it is still rather misty but clearer than yesterday and the tide is very low. We arrived at the jetty as the boat was just pulling alongside and were soon on board and on our way. There were only avout 10 of us on board, so quite a comfortable number. We did the Monarch trip a couple of years ago during the Rugby World Cup and, although it was winter, the boat was much busier. Mind you, we have already come to realise that during the RWC the whole of New Zealand was much busier!

The sea was very calm for the Roaring Forties so, unlike on our last trip, today we didn't see an albatross in flight as they need the wind to be much stronger, but we did see plenty of good sights. There were hordes of Stewart Island shags and a couple of yellow Eyed Penguins up on the headland as well as several nesting Northern Royal Albatross which could be seen as white spots in the grass. Further round the headland there were white spoonbils nest in the bushes. At the bottom of the cliffs, on the rocks, there were plenty of fur seals, some big old boys as well as females and some babies. There were a few scraps going on as some youngsters tried to invade the territory of others which was quite amusing to watch.

We headed further out to sea and saw a Giant Petrel flying close to the water. Then, without warning, we were joined by a pod of around 30 Hector's Dolphins who stayed close to the boat playing, jumping and weaving in and out around us. It was just an amazing sight, a real thrill and the crew enjoyed the experience as much as we did. Apparently they don't see them very often and never usually so many all at once. The dolphins stayed with us until we had to turn and head back so a wonderful memory for all on board.

Next stop Taiaroa Point for our Nature's Wonders Tour. On the way we passed the Albatross Centre, the only mainland breeding place in the world, where we went to admire the growing chicks on our last trip down this way.Now we were all set for a vey different kind of activity. We went for a truly thrilling ride on an 8-wheel drive all terrain vehicle. Not only was it great fun and really exhilerating as we negotiated steep hills, fields and beaches but we got to see some beautiful animals and birds too! The mist was still very thick so no spectacular view, unfortunately, but driving down the hill we saw a nest full of tiny Paradise ducklinga all squirming and wriggling together and looking unbearably cute! Descending from 189 meters above sea level right down to the beach we got out of the vehicle close to a breeding colony of New Zealand fur seals and saw adults and their pups basking on the rocks and swimming in natural pools. There were also several pups lying in the grass very close to our feet and a few wandering around just being curious. From here we rode to a covered, all weather track leading down a purpose built hide on Penguin Beach. We were able to see one of the rare, yellow eyed penguins who was nesting just below us and also viewed a little blue penguin in a special nesting box. Time was against us and we had to finish there but yet another great and memorable experience.

Back along the Otago Peninsula and it was time to go along to Larnach Castle for a look round the castle and grounds. We loved it on our last visit and the entrance fee is included this time as we are staying in castle accommodation so definitely worth a second visit. After a beer and a snack in the Ballroom Cafe we went inside the castle and had a good look round. Downstairs there is a display explaining aspects of the Larnach family history. On the ground floor you have the more ornate rooms for entertaining, while upstairs the bedrooms are less fancy but very interesting because of the furnishings and items of clothing on display. We climbed the precarious, winding stairs up to the roof and enjoyed the view from above. Luckily the mist had cleared by now. Back down below we took a short walk through the beautiful, carefully laid out gardens which deserve much more time to be spent on them but unfortunately we were running to a tight schedule and no time to spare.

Back at Camp Estate we had a quick turn around and were back downstairs by 6.30pm having a pre-dinner drink with our hosts before returning to Larnach Castle for dinner in the Castle dining room. What a wonderful experience that was! Thirteen of us sat down to dine at the long table in front of a crackling fire. We had an excellent, leisurely 3 course meal in elegant surroundings with good wine and good company. In between courses we were treated to more castle history about William Larnach and his family by our lovely Maitre D'. I guess there won't be many occasions when we sit down to dine in a castle! Another special memory to take away with us.