Daily Photo: Back Beach in Port Chalmers

There are worse places to spend an afternoon than looking out over Otago Harbour, particularly when the sun is shining and the water has decided to show off a little.

This view comes from the lookout above Back Beach in Port Chalmers, where the harbour opens up into a glorious sweep of blue, dotted with boats that appear to have found themselves perfectly agreeable places to do absolutely nothing. I rather like that idea. There’s something reassuring about a boat sitting at anchor, with nowhere particular to be and no pressing appointments to attend.

The islands and headlands add to the scene, while the hills beyond of the Otago Peninsula provide a reminder that this part of Otago is rarely short of a decent view. It’s a working harbour, of course, with ships, industry and all the practical business that keeps things ticking along, but from up here it’s easy to forget about all that for a while.

I stood and took it all in, camera in hand, feeling rather pleased with my choice of outing.