Year 13 Tourism Trip

The highlight of the trip was undoubtedly the Whale Watching trip which had the lads at school before 7:30am to meet the sailing time. We were greeted with a magical Kaikoura spring day, not a cloud in the sky or a breath of wind, anticipation was high. 

After checking in, the time spent waiting for the safety briefing was spent (against all advice) eating meat pies and milkshakes – a decision many would live to regret.  After that many of the boys looked like they were already looking for their sea legs before we had even left the channel, I thought some members of the ‘playstation generation’ might struggle a bit on the high seas and we weren’t disappointed! Once the toilet cue had abated, we began our search for the resident Sperm Whales that were now feeding on giant squid, shark and kingfish nearly 20km offshore.  After a nervous wait we were delighted, none more so than Mr Wilson-Pyne, to meet one of the locals and get a load of great pictures. 

The remainder of the time searching was proving unfruitful and the decision was made to head back.  As we began to set a course for the wharf Mr Keats incredibly spotted another whale on the horizon!  We rushed towards it and after spending some quality time with it, an annoying pack of dolphins forced him to dive but not before exposing his massive flutes for another photo opportunity.  Could it get any better, yes, another whale pops up within a 100m!  With three whales spotted it was truly time to return to dry land. 

After the customary meal of fish and chips, and much needed fluid replacement for some, it was time to head back to Christchurch with some great memories of a top day out and another cross off the bucket list.