Woke up before the rest of Wellington, well apart from the part that seems to have not slept. I heard alot of partying going on around where we were staying and the bottles were being collected almost before the sun rose. As it happened that was as it should be as we had to be checking in for the Interisland Ferry at 7.25. After a frantic navigation of the one way system we managed to collect Ethan and get to the ferry on time. I had recollection of many a crossing with Contiki and with family as a child, rushing last minute to make it. My anxiety levels were peaking.
Anyway once on the boat we were well looked after by Henry and Owain. We had a fantastic coffee from the girls in the bar and they certainly had service with personality nailed. Our objective was to take a look at the Olivito Cafe which has been set up to be less foodhall more cafe. We did and it was just fine, but the interesting thing was the coffee and how that is so much a part of our culture now. The coffee line was massive as we set sail. It seems we all are collectively addicted. The kids made the most of the family room and I managed to get into the Kaitaki lounge in order to do some work on the internet. In the pockets where it dropped out I spent time on mutual recommendation of cafe and destination with the IT guy who was on board.
We drove off the other side and the old feeling of home hit me as it always does when I am in the south. After such an early morning there was a bit of sleeping taking place as we made our way to Kaikoura. We stopped at Nins Bin but the prices were restrictive and so we had to pass on satisfying that particular craving.
We made it to Kaikoura for a late and much needed lunch. Leontia (I hope I spelt your name correctly) from Blue Duck had recommended The Beach House as a cafe to visit and that is where we ended up. It is a house with a Tamariki Room and is owned and operated by Wayne and Coral and their girls. We had a very good coffee and food along with a chat to Wayne. Good people and the spirit of the place is one that felt familiar. Mika made friends with Sid the dog who is very selective when it comes to people. I didn't make the grade as he departed as soon as I got close.
We settled into our accomodation and the kids made use of the games room. Ruby, Matthew and I made use of the pool. Bliss after a day on the road.
Wayne had mentioned a BBQ on the beach on the way to the seal colony and so we decided to have a look for dinner. Kate made us very welcome and we had seafood that was caught that day at a price that was most affordable. Very, very good food and the location and cleaning up system appealed as well. We chatted for a while and made a plan to return for lunch the next day.
Another long day and we were very pleased to lay the heads on the pillows. Tomorrow we watch Whales.
No comments:
Post a Comment