This is the town we’re staying at today and where we spent the evening stalking penguins.  We thought folks would like to see some of the architecture.

When there's a "Snooker and Billiard Hall" you know you're not in Kansas anymore.

And…while Ann went out exploring – I spent some quality time in New Zealand’s only whiskey factory.  It actually went out of business back in the early 1990’s, but they stored casks of the stuff and today are selling it again.  I bought a 1989 cask strength single malt.  Yum!

Ann in Takaro Park in downtown Oamaru.

And a bit of the skyline. Definitely has a British feel.

Ann has wanted to see the Blue Penguins “up close” for two years now.  Tonight we were finally in the right place at the right time to see a dozen or more cross the road and waddle up into the caves along the cliff.

Hmm...maybe this would be a good spot to watch for them tonight?

We got to the bay at Oamaru about dusk...

Just as we were getting ready to leave, around 10 PM, the little scamps showed up...

They come up from the beach, hide in the bushes then when the coast is clear - charge!

And so it goes here in the Southland.  Tomorrow we go fly fishing (I hope) up river into the South Central Region to the small town of Kurow.  We’re booked into a farm stay.  Not sure what that will entail, but this one is more upscale than the “Caravan” at the farm hostel.

Wish us luck!