Nelson: Lobster and abalone

We watch the weather roll in across the water from the campsite

Soon after we arrive at Nelson, the camposite next to us becomes occupied by a young couple, Andrew and Amanda, who are equipped with a camper-trailer, wet suits, and their large beautiful dog Willow. Amanda immediately tells us Willow is friendly, which we detect instantly by her excitable jumping, whimpering and tailwagging. Their friend Clinton soon joins them and we learn that they are all avid divers, and enjoy spearfishing for sport and food.

Before I know it Jase announces he is going diving with them to look for fish, lobsters and abalone. Awesome!

Carpenters Beach. The water is freezing but at least you don't have to wade too far out to locate your target. We think we need to go shopping for wetsuits.... board shorts don't quite cut it when you want to dive seriously

On the prowl

This neat little shelf contains lobsters

Go on, get in there

Clint prepares the abalone as curious children observe. When did the day become so sunny?

The lobster is succulent and tastes of the sea. The fish are lightly battered in tempura and quickly fried; they are crunchy and scrumptious. We also prepare special fried rice and a salad to go with the meal, and lay out an assortment of pickles and condiments.

l-r Eve (stuffing her face with lobster), Clint (regaling us with stories of his adventures), Drew, Amanda and their dog Willow (unusually calm).

To top off our perfect day, Andrew suggests a casual game of poker, which is played until the early hours of the morning.

Can't wait to eat that abalone!!