Rocky Coastline of Kaikoura

The coastline of Kaikoura is fairly rocky - this shot was taken at the seal colony looking towards the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges.

The rock formation for this area is a mixture of this ruggedness and tidal platforms, great place for the Fur Seals to bask in the sun. The rock surface looks quite white in places, as if a mini water-blaster has been at work. These are left by limpets grazing on algae when the tide is in, or at night. One species always returns to the same place to await the tide's return. Over time it modifies the rock to fit its particular shell-shape, thus minimising water loss.

An excellent diving area, wading birds such as oystercatchers, reef herons and shags can be found. Seaweeds both large and small, thrive in the nutrient-rich waters and shellfish, anemones, shrimps, triplefins and rockfish can also be found.

A day of exploring, enjoying the fresh cool air and the smells of being by the sea :)

Great in large :)