I have never been that close to a seal.

Arriving from Picton to Kaikoura by Intercity bus about 2 hours journey. As usual a small quiet town but the sea view is pretty soothing. Day 1. Reached 4pm and decide to take it easy for the day. Went to the city centre for stroll and shop. And head to New World to stock up on fruits, milk, yogurt and breakfast. Had fish and chip for tonight at Sunny’s Kitchen. I chose the Blue Cod as the owner cum cook said it’s a better quality fish than Hoki. Chip was $5 and Blue Cod is $14.99. Fish was flesh, sweet and tender. Portion of fish was small thou. Day 2 Book whale watching by boat via web Whale Watch Kaikoura. NZD175 for an adult . Instant confirmation. Set off at 10am and back by around 1pm. Same 2 whales and lot of dolphins thou. Felt not worth the money spent. Crews were great. Went on for a 2.5 hours walk to Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway. Was surprise to see a colony of seals and baby seals at close proximity. Beauty of which it is FREE! Back to city centre and took dinner at Strawberry Tree. Ordered the starter whitebait omelette nzd24 and catch of the day which is a Blue COD nzd36. Dinner was ok nothing to shout out for. Staffs were nice and polite. Accommodation. The Lazy Shag. Stayed in single room ensuite bathroom. Queensize bed with heater, towels and bath soap. Very nice lady owner . Bed and pillows clean and comfortable. Common area with fridge and fully equipped kitchen.Strongly recommend for no frills stay. I strongly encourage visitors to NZ to drop by Kaikoura and stay for a night or two.#solotrip #whalewatching #naturalwonders #kaikoura