On The Tourist Trail Day 3

A longer day today driving to the south coast to see the Pinnacles, lighthouse and seals.  The Pinnacles are gravels 12 -14 million years old that have been eroded into a series of deep gullies or 'badlands' or hoodoos as they are known  elsewhere.  The visitors wanted to go there because of Lord of The Lord of Rings movies.  This was the location for the 'paths of the dead' scene in Return of the King.  The oldest member of the visitor party wasn't up walking up the stream to see the formations so I amused her taking photos at the car park area nad walking to the beach which was incredibly calm.  We could even see the snow capped tops on the South Island.  When the others returned it was a picnic lunch at the vehicles.  The sun had appeared by then fortunately.  
We then negotiated the rough road around to Cape  Palliser Lighthouse.  The extras are to show today was exceptional and I think very harsh winds blow through here and shape the Manuka bushes.  Lastly the lighthouse.  The sun had gone but I liked the ragged ridge line.
The drive home west and north was lovely and I would like to return to this area.  Very glad to get out of the truck and stop driving.  The forester was also back and it was good to hear his adventure had gone well.