Close Calls, Museum Hopping, and More Penguins in Dunedin

A fried egg sandwich, a quick news update, and a visit to the ducks and chickens. They were starting to recognize my footsteps, which was a heartwarming experience, reminiscent of feeding my pigeons and crows back home.

Before the day truly began, I decided to tackle a hike up the mountain behind my B&B to a place called "Skywalk in the Clouds." This trail promised an immersive experience in the cloud layer that often shrouds the mountains. The hike, about 13 kilometers, felt manageable after the previous day's e-bike adventure.

The landscape was reminiscent of a rain forest, and I spotted wild boar tracks along the way. Further up, I even saw the remains of a wild boar, a stark reminder that they're considered pests in New Zealand. I also saw signs warning about wallabies, another introduced species that threatens the native ecosystem. I remembered learning the previous day that the only indigenous land mammals in New Zealand are bats, making the presence of deer, hedgehogs, possums, weasels, and wildcats a significant concern, especially for the vulnerable penguin population.

Following Google Maps to the trailhead, I was led astray, a full kilometer past the actual entrance, into a ditch. I corrected the location on Google Maps, hoping to prevent future travelers from making the same mistake. The trail was slick from recent rain, making the hike challenging. I'd read it was easier in drier conditions. The trail was still under construction, requiring extra caution.

I made it about halfway up the trail, taking numerous photos along the way, before deciding to turn back to conserve energy for other activities. The descent was treacherous. I slipped and nearly fell off the trail, a 20-foot drop averted only by landing on the wooden platforms. It was a scary moment, but I laughed it off, grateful to be unharmed (though I did acquire a few bruises, one of which I didn't notice for two days). Adding to the surreal experience, I found lawn gnomes hidden along the trail.

Back at my B&B around 9:30 or 10:00 AM, I enjoyed some of the sweet orange fruits from the garden before hopping on my bike and heading into town for a museum day. I visited the Otago Art Museum, the Sports Museum, and the Settlers Museum, soaking in the rich history and culture of the region. I also took time to admire the city's beautiful old architecture.

Lunch was at "Good Good," a cafe that advertised gluten-free options. I ordered their gluten-free fried chicken sandwich, kumara fries, and a vanilla milkshake. It was a feast! I managed half the sandwich, a few of the massive kumara fries, and the entire milkshake. The food was delicious, and the cafe's unique, laid-back surfer vibe, with its food truck-style kitchen and indoor plants, was a highlight.

After returning the bike, I ran into the man I'd helped on my first day. He thanked me again for the food, and coincidentally, I had leftovers – half a chicken sandwich and kumara fries. He was overjoyed and so grateful, a reminder of the simple joy of helping someone in need.

The evening was dedicated to the Little Blue Penguin viewing. I took a bus to the peninsula and joined the tour. The experience was incredible. We watched from a platform right in the penguins' habitat, listening to the chicks squawking for food. We saw three groups of penguins waddle ashore and head to their nests. The ambiance was magical, and I managed to capture some decent photos despite the darkness.

By the end of the tour, it was nearly 10:30 PM. A taxi would have taken an hour, so I asked a tour guide about shuttle space. Another tour participant overheard and offered me a ride into the city! She refused payment but was thrilled when I offered her my photos since her phone had died. This act of kindness was a perfect exchange.

I was dropped off about 6 kilometers from my B&B. It was late, so I took a taxi the rest of the way. Back at my B&B, I enjoyed a light fruit snack and a shower before falling asleep. It was a day filled with unexpected kindness, delicious food, and the unforgettable sight of the Little Blue Penguins.