New Zealand - glaciers, Penguins, and seals

The South Island gave us some good opportunities to see glaciers. We explored the west coast and found what seemed to be a hot spot of glaciers, from Franz Joseph Glacier to Tasman Glacier. A great place to get up close to a glacier.

After our close encounters with glaciers we hiked along a trail that led through a thick forest and eventually ended at an empty deserted beach. The beach served as a good spot to rest for a while and relax before hiking back. As we were sitting on the beach watching the ocean, out of a wave emerged two penguins. A complete surprise to us as we had no expectation of seeing penguins or that they even occurred in that area.

After making their way onto the beach the two penguins then began a slow trek, more like a hopping parade, inland away from the water.

They continued moving until they reached some large rocks and began hopping up them. An amazing and memorable experience.

And there were also seals to be found. While some chose to rest in the soft grass...

Others chose a bit rougher surface to rest on closer to the sea. New Zealand continues to amaze us and there is still more to see.