Fallen Giant

While I was traveling the South Island, I happened to hear about a beached whale from a local. We were told the whale had washed ashore in the night just a short 15-minute drive from where we were staying in Greymouth. Once we arrived at the location at Kumara Beach, we spoke to other locals who were very disturbed by this event, informing us this was the third beached whale in the past week. The Department of Conservation had inspected the whale and shortly released, "It's certainly unusual and it may just be coincidence. There were some major storms at sea…that's the only likely reason I can see at the moment." But I think the real question, is what’s causing the storms? New Zealand has had its wettest year to date with many floods and other environmental issues throughout. And unfortunately, a week later another beached whale washed up in the same area. It makes me wonder, is global warming becoming a real concern?

Locals gather to witness the third beached whale in one week

15 meter [50 foot] sperm whale awaiting the traditional Maori burial

The cause of death is still undetermined

Terribly sad but a once in a lifetime chance to be this close to a fallen giant

Cloudy Bay

Check out the article for Cloudy Bay, home of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, at Mission Valley News!

Mussels...Kiwi Style

I arrived in New Zealand two weeks before I started work so I could do some sight seeing. I chose to couch surf so I could meet some locals and see the real New Zealand...kiwi style. I've done it before and met some truly amazing people and made some life long friends. I love it and it's a great way to travel! One of my first stops was in Kerikeri, which is known for its beautiful inlet and fantastic fishing. I stayed with Richard Seleck, a lovely man who owns a charter fishing boat and was an amazing tour guide. If you're in the area, look him up, he's the best!

Kerikeri's Oyster Bay

Oyster bed

Richard tried to shuck an oyster but neither of us knew how and we got pretty cut up trying so we moved on to the mussels...much easier J

Richard teaching me how to spot and harvest mussels 

Harvesting my first mussel...you can't see my face but trust me, I'm all smiles J

Success!

Our freshly harvested, cleaned and cooked mussels. Richard later told me that mussels are extremely cheap in New Zealand [29 cents/kg] and that it would have been easier to just buy them but what fun would that have been?!

Richard cooked us a fabulous dinner...fresh salad from his garden, fresh bread and of course our fresh mussels. Top notch!

Mussels are succulent, salty and a bit sweet and this none traditional blend paired perfectly.  Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris are typically blended together in lower quality wines but the two varietals create a beautifully aromatic wine with body while still retaining acidity and freshness. A great food wine and lovely pairing with mussels.