Today we went for a drive, and this is what we saw.
First we stopped in the tiny town of Palmerston and filled our gas tank across from Eddie Todd's saddle maker shop.
Then we ventured on along the coast toward Moeraki to see the famed spherical boulders on the beach.
Walking Down to the Beach
Moeraki Boulders
Geologic Explanation
The boulders are nearly spherical. They were formed in the subsurface as layers of calcite were deposited around an object in concentric layers--similarly to the way a pearl forms around a grain of sand in an oyster.
After reaching the surface through geologic processes, they are exposed to weathering forces and begin to crack and split open.
Many of the boulders have formed bowl-like structures such as this one. The bowl becomes a self-contained tidal pool full of sea life.
Shore Birds
(I don't know what kind because we're waiting on our bird guide book in the mail.)
Next, we drove out across the pastures to Katiki Point to see the lighthouse and wildlife sanctuary.
Just down from the lighthouse is a sandy beach, surrounded by rocks and kelp beds--a sure indicator of seals and sea lions.
Here's one now.
And a little guy (my favorite)...
Perfect Finish to Perfect Day
