Dunedin (Dùn Èideann)

Once packed up and checked out, we walked to the Victorian Precinct for coffee and another lovely visit with J and her daughter S. The Harbour Street Cafe is an open and eclectic space with lots of vintage decor. We shared the breakfast plater while enjoying a couple lattes. The good company and stories we shared were fabulous.

Heading further south on the east coast, our first stop brought us to Moeraki Rocks beach walk. They are spherical rocks embedded along a short section of shoreline. They appeared to be a conglomerate of softer stone, glued together by crystals! The photos don't quite do them justice.
https://www.moerakiboulders.com/

Another short drive and side excursion found us out at Shag Point (named for the English name from a seabird, the Pied Shag). A group of Fur Seals were sunning amongst the rocks and shore front. It's pretty amazing how high they can climb up on the rocks. Next stop for a stretch of the legs was at Wakouaiti Beach. Only a handful of other folks on this picturesque beach!

We drove along the coast line as much as possible, taking the scenic route as we hoped on and off the main highway. As we approached Dunedin, we had a pretty significant climb through the foothills and low mountains in the area. The clouds at the top gave way to a sunny valley below where Dunedin resides at the end of a short narrow channel, forming a protected harbour.

Taking advantage of the sunny warm weather, we headed out to walk the downtown area. Our primary destination was the picturesque train station, built in 1904. Much of the area is comprised of large cut-stone and mid-century buildings, amongst newer structures. The center has a large open circular park area, with a hexagonal layout that radiates out into the hilly surroundings. George Street, through the centre, is reminiscent of Grandville street in Vancouver.

On our way back to the night's accommodations, we stopped for dinner at a Mexican canteena, enjoying a mini pitcher of classic margaritas (more like tequila and lemonade😌), burrito, and enchiladas plates. We sat next to the gas fireplace for a bit of warm atmosphere. The interior quirky and very few other diners.Weiterlesen