Monday Feb 8, 2010 – Otago Peninsula

In the afternoon we went to see Larnach Castle. It was built William Larnach from 1871-76. Like many wealthy families of the time there was lots of family upheaval. After many owners along the way it was purchased by the Barker family who spent many years restoring the castle. It was in great disrepair when they bought it. It was a labour of love to restore it. They did a fantastic job of the restoration. It is beautiful inside. We were not allowed to photos inside. There were stunning view from the all the bedrooms on the third and fourth floors. There is a grand set of stairs leading to the front door on the second level. The first level was where the kitchen was and possibly where the servants stayed. Circular staircases lead to each floor. The Castle was empty when it was purchased. Over the years many people have loaned or sold them original pieces. A ballroom was added when William's daughters got bored out in the boonies. He wanted them to entertain at home. They did for a while but soon left home for exciting cities. Around the castle are lovely gardens. It was a lovely way to spend an afternoon.

In the evening we did a 4 wheel drive tour. Sam was our driver and owner of the property we drove on. He runs about 3000 sheep in the summer and 2000 in the winter. We saw beautiful views of the ocean and his land. Our journey took around Mt Charles the highest of the volcanic peak in the area. We stopped to see some seals. We could have taken steps down to the rocks and see the seals up close but there were a lots of steps. I could not have made it back up the steps. On one beach we saw sea lions. Mostly males. There are only about 14 sea lions in the area. We saw some shag nests on the flat top of an island. It was like a city: the nests were lined up in rows. It looked like someone had put old tires down for them to nest in.

Shortly we got to the area to view penguins. We saw one young penguin up close. Its sibling was laying down. The yellow eye penguins do not like to have their nests in sight of another nest. They were waiting for Mom and Dad to return with their food. They are just about ready to leave the nest. Once they hit the water they never associate with their Parents again. There is a high death rate in the first year at sea mostly due to starvation. We hoped to see Mom and Dad return but not tonight. We did see an adult having returned to its young, way across the bay. They could be seen by binoculars. Penguins nest very high up on the cliffs. The parents have to climb up and down each day to get food for the chick. Soon our trip was over. Another beautiful ending to a day.