We were blessed with glorious weather again today, a delight, knowing that we would be travelling through the beautiful Marlborough Sounds on the Bluebridge Ferry later today.
But, first we had an important stop to make; what was once a locals secret (until it was discussed on national news last night) Ohau Stream and Waterfall is home to a very special group of youngsters!
In the freshwater pools under the waterfall live approximately 100 baby NZ fur seals. Whilst their mothers spend time out by the Pacific Ocean fishing and sleeping these pups frolic and play in the pools, travelling the short distance downstream to their mother’s when they are hungry.
We sat on the rocks, within touching distance of these cute pups, watching them play clumsily in the pools. Every now and then they would stop and take a look at us, but on the whole were not concerned about our presence.
It was an amazing moment for all of us, certainly something we had never been lucky enough to witness before.
As we drove north to Picton the journey seemed to fly. We drove along the rugged, deserted coast, and then inland through endless fields of grapevines, into the Marlborough region, wine country!
We arrived in Picton with enough time to spare for a walk around the harbour, and to visit the viewpoint overlooking Queen Charlotte Sound.
Then we said an official ‘Goodbye’ to the South Island and checked in for the Bluebridge Ferry, destination Wellington, on the North Island.
We both felt sad to be finally leaving the beautiful South Island, after travelling around it for the past month and a half…what a truly amazing place, with many happy memories!
Once on the ferry we opted for the outside seating option, and took in the views as we travelled through the Marlborough Sounds.
We were very lucky to have another smooth crossing, with calm waters and a light breeze. It was still fairly chilly at times though, and when Nicola put her giant hood up Tracy aptly nicknamed her the ‘jelly baby’!
We arrived at Wellington Port at 5:30pm, and made the short journey through rush hour to the YHA hostel. We checked into our 3 bed dorm…bunks and all!! Then made dinner and chilled out for the night.
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