Dunedin is a sleepy little city disproportionately influenced by the university, which has something like 20,000 students. There are some interesting old buildings, but Dunedin did not inspire. Otago University on the other hand is very impressive.
It is in a beautiful setting around a small river, the Leith. Some buildings are historic and most of the modern buildings have some architectural merit (unlike much of the UK's post-war university construction). 
It was interesting to see where my father spent 7 years on his two degrees and met my mother. I also visited St Clair, where my mother and her family lived. A great surf beach!
After exploring Dunedin and the university, I headed out onto the Dunedin peninsula. A fantastic place, so close to the city. Ideally located for anyone interested in boats.
I stayed the night at Portabello (on the peninsula), having visited the albatros colony at the end of the peninsula. The observation platform was a bit of a let down as there is reflective smoked glass between you and the birds, but seeing them sweeping around the headland after feeding at sea was spectacular, with their massive 3 meter wingspan.
Yesterday I made my way back by driving up the east coast to Palmerston. It is a beautiful coastline of cliffs and sandy beaches, with some great little villages. After lunch at Palmerston I headed inland stopping at the old gold mining town of St Bathams - very picturesque.
I arrived back to Emma and Pete's home to find that a supper party had been arranged. The guests included the record holder for the coast to coast race (some 8 hours of biking, running and kayaking!). Everyone here is so involved in outdoor activities that I feel like a couch potato by comparison!
Today is the local agricultural show and packing for my 4 day expedition tomorrow. So there may not be another entry for about 5 days.
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