What a glorious day today! It started out in Hanmer Springs a chilly 38 and we drove thru fog in the mountains but when we popped out on the Pacific the sun was shining and the ocean was calm and blue. Six trips here and this is the first time it has been this clear and beautiful. Several of our group stopped in Kaikoura to watch the seals and dolphins frolic in the water. Some even saw some whales close to shore! This north east coast of the south island is Marlborough country. The famous wine region. Several wineries have tastings so this trip might take a while today.
My favorite stop is at ‘The Store’, a cafe with panoramic views of the Pacific. Their chef inspired menu always has something of the local flavor to offer. Green lipped mussels, blue cod, crayfish to name a few. For the first time we all sat outside instead of trying to stay warm and dry inside by the fireplace. What a hoot!
This is their famous crayfish. Like a lobster without claws. Several crayfish stands were on our drive today so we stopped to see what they were all about. The 67 on this ones back is the price! Yep, $67. Yikes! Too rich for my blood.
