Moeraki Boulders
by Robmj
The Moeraki Boulders are a number of huge spherical stones, found strewn along a stretch of Koekohe Beach near Moeraki, a small settlement just south of Hampden on New Zealand's Otago coast.
These boulders are grey-coloured septarian concretions which have been exposed through shoreline erosion from black mudstone coastal cliffs that back the beach. They originally formed in ancient sea floor sediments during the early Paleocene some 60 million years ago. The most striking aspect of the boulders is their unusually large size and highly spherical shape, with a distinct bimodal size distribution. The boulders weigh several tonnes and are up to three metres in diametre.
Maori legend tells that the boulders are remains of calabashes, kumaras and eel baskets that washed ashore after the legendary canoe, the Araiteuru was wrecked at nearby Shag Point (Matakaea).
Similar boulders can also be found in the north-facing shore of Shag Point some 12 miles south of where the Moeraki Boulders are found. Hokianga harbour in the North Island also has some similar examples.
Moeraki boulders are in a protected scientific reserve just north of the little settlement of Moeraki, which has a particularly good restaurant and cafe.
These boulders are about a 60km drive north of Dunedin City along the main state highway.
Farm stay - lambs
by grets
Aileen and Kevin are very personable and genuine people, doing their utmost to ensure we have an enjoyable stay. They take us around the farm, and allowing us to interact with the animals, such as feeding these little lambs which have been abandoned by their mother.
Visit the Otago Peninsula
by BurgerQueen
The Otago Peninsula is a 20km-long fiord located near Dunedin. The peninsula is well known because of the beautiful landscapes and above all because of its wildlife. Because of its intimate position, this area is a natural shelter for yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and cormorants.
The peninsula can be explored either on foot (by following pre-defined tracks) or with organised boat and jeep tours. A road bordering the peninsula northern side will lead you up to the peninsula edge among beautiful scenarios: we appreciated them despite the awful weather!
The road is at sea level, do not drive there at night, there's no light, no road side protection and no petrol station! On our arrival to Dunedin, we looked for accomodation in the Peninsula, but it was late at night, and we were running out of fuel... Almost a nightmare!
Royal Albatross Colony
by 80-bettyboo
The Royal Albatross, one of the largest seabirds.Held aloft on slim wings up to 3 metres (9'6") across, and Albatross is capable of swooping speeds of at least 115kph+.
The Royal Albatross centre arranges 1 hour tour starts at the Royal Albatross center located at Taiaroa Head on the Otago Penunsula.
Royal Albatross Colony & Centre
by sunnywong
Visit the world's only mainland albatross colony, just 50 minutes from Dunedin city. Get a close-up look at these magnificent birds with their 3 metre wingspan. Observatory open daily for guided tours from 24 November to 16 September. (No tours on Tuesday mornings). Reservations essential. Tours, interpretive displays, closed circuit television, café and souvenir shop.
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Bedroom in Larnach Castle
Dunedin Railway Station
Otago University buildings, Dunedin
Serene View of the Otago Peninsula
