The rains are here

A drizzly cold Friday morning in Kaikoura. First thing to do is look for some seal colonies which are well known around the Kaikoura Peninsula. We arrive at the South Bay end of the peninsula. No seals, but a few ducks and other coastal birds. We trudge up the steep path up the cliff edge. Still no seals in sight, just a coastal view out along a harbour bay.
On to the North side of the peninsula. Before even arriving at the carpark the fat, lazy seals are in sight. The carpark is surrounded by seals, in fact one seal was literally in the carpark. Hopping out of the car we get some close encounters and photos with seals. All the time, resisting the temptation to touch or pat them.
Out of Kaikoura now, heading north up the coast. The swell and waves crashing into the rocky coastline is remarkable. A 2 metre swell is reported on the radio. This coast is known for it's surfing but no surfers are seen braving the waters today.
A few lookouts are scattered along the coast, some with views of active seal colonies. This time we see some baby seals (pups) amongst the groups.
One of the unplanned stops was a place called Ohau Point. The waves were particularly impressive at this small beach. We follow the directions of an unremarkable walking track sign along a narrow undulating track surrounded by thick forrest to a waterfall. The track follows a small stream which we can see is home to quite a few seal pups.
At the end of the track, at the waterfall, is a truly incredible sight. A pool at the base of the waterfall and the rocks surrounding it are the playground for countless seal pups. Swimming, socialising, and resting within arms length.
A little further up the coast we are hungry for lunch and stop at a place called The Store. A picturesque cafe/wedding venue sitting on it's own on the costal cliffs.
Moving on it's getting late in the afternoon. On our way through Blenheim we stop at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. $30 each for entry and tour is a bit much, so we have good look outside at the classic original and replica aircraft from the great war.
We pull into a Picton in the evening just in time to walk into town for dinner and then walk back to our van in the rain.