It's dark without light

Since we arrived in the Catlins late in the afternoon the day before, it was not possible to visit the Cathedral Caves. The Cathedral Caves is a cave formation that can only be reached at low tide. The current low tide window is between 8:30 am and 11:45 am. Interestingly, we always wake up at 7 o'clock and usually are the first ones active at the campsites. Therefore, this time not an issue.

Entrance to the cave formation

The entrance height is an impressive 30 meters.

The beach leading there is very nice for walking. Here you can find all sorts of life that is not visible during high tide.

Yellow sponge algae

All sorts of shells

On the same day, our route takes us to another accessible cave. The Clifton Caves should only be entered with at least two lamps, not in heavy rain, and never alone. It takes about an hour to cross the limestone cave along narrow shafts and climbing passages. Doubtful if we can handle it with the current strength of one arm, we set off.

Hard to believe, but after only 50 meters my headlamp goes out. Battery empty. A sign. Reason and the previously mentioned doubts drive us back with one lamp. That's a pity, because this kind of cave exploration on our own is a real adventure. Let's see where we can do that in Germany. Any tips?

We head towards Milford Sound. It rains here about 200 days a year and it's really beautiful only in sunshine and good visibility. However, it is on our route and the holiday is not forever. The rain is already there when we arrive. In the evening, quickly fire up the grill in the short dry moment and enjoy the salmon from the salmon farm.

Tomorrow we will go directly to Milford Sound in the morning...