Life in South Africa

The next series of blog posts are all about life in South Africa - how to was to live in South Africa and the incredible lifeforms I encountered during my 3 months there. This thrilling chapter of my life was spent mostly out on the ocean where there is an abundance of marine life. But I also got to enjoy the African land on a day to day basis. I was living in Kleinbaai (translation: small bay) and guiding whale watching tours for Dyer Island Cruises. This company not only operates responsible whale watching tours, but they are also industry leaders in research and conservation. I feel so lucky for the time I spent with them.

This was my front yard. An incredible playground for sightseeing, nature photography and running

The bay we would launch from for whale watching - a fun ride getting past the wave action

The view from the boat. We often encountered whales and dolphins this close to shore

There was plenty of wildlife to be seen while walking the coastline...

such as this tree agama (the heads of the males turn blue during the breeding season)

and this stunning millipede

It was always a delight to visit the African penguins and the African Penguin & Seabird Sanctuary

Goodbye São Miguel

After 9 and a half years living here, it was time to leave São Miguel and start pursuing new adventures again. One of my last goodbyes (for now) to Furnas, which is an enchanting little village in the middle of the island. I spent many hours in Terra Nostra garden, soaking up the serenity offered by nature. 

Spot the waterfall

New Zealand landscapes

New Zealand is full of stunning landscapes and scenery. Below are just a few shots from around the country. There are striking differences from north to south as you travel through the country. There is still so much I would like to explore here. 

Moeraki coastline

Tongariro National Park

Piha

Hanmer area

Putangirua pinnacles walk

Kaikoura coastline

...and a full moon to finish

Castlepoint, Wairarapa

Another stunning bit of Wairarapa coastline with a lighthouse that is worth the hike to the top. 

Cape Palliser

Cape Palliser in the Wairarapa is well worth a visit. There are many New Zealand fur seals to be seen and the views from the lighthouse above the bay are stunning!

Palliser Bay - a great place to see New Zealand fur seals

258 steps to reach the lighthouse...

Almost at the top...

Stunning views from the lighthouse on the clifftop

New Zealand wildlife part 2

A few more animal species I photographed during a short visit in New Zealand: 

Blackbird (Turdus merula) at sunrise

Pied shag (Phalacrocorax varius) in nest-building mode

Variable oystercatcher (Haematopus unicolor)

New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsteri)