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Leaving a magnificent autumn

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So, my birthday week arrived and I was spoilt rotten by Mark, Emma and David​. What a great trip David and I had down to Wānaka. It was so good to have a driver so I could fully appreciate the incredible scenery en route. Lots of stops of course to savour the ever changing moods of the lakes. There is not a more beautiful place in the world in autumn than Wānaka and its surroundings. It’s simply breathtaking and generally the weather is pretty reliable and there are generally fewer tourists. This year it was surprisingly busy  on the main routes, but as always our favourite track was almost just for us, Below is one of my favourite places to stop and stare, wondering at the beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains. Extraordinary colours, so vibrant, especially with the sun lighting up those fabulous leaves go gold, orange and red. The Fisherman's Track never fails to thrill me with its magnificent golden poplars contrasting with the turquoise of the mighty Clutha River. David’s...

Wānaka in October 2025

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                      Sorry Mike, but time to hit the road again after a phenomenal spring in Christchurch . Hagley Park , and Little Ha gley  , with carpets of bluebells and lush new growth on the majestic trees! Time to say a short farewell to my cherry blossom in the garden and to head south. Lake Pukaki - so unbelievably beautiful and so blue. How gorgeous to drive over my favorite pass, The Lindis , with no other car in sight. Perfect opportunity to drive more slowly to appreciate this gently undulating pass. We were treated to a fabulous supermoon , reflecting in both Lake Wānaka and the little pond at Edgewater  Hotel. What a lovely day we, Janice, Gary and I, spent in Arrowtown and Ayrburn .  Ayrburn is a newish resort, with beautifully manicured gardens, banks of native plantings , waterfall and creek and many restaurants to suit all tastes, although all relatively pricey but with excellent food. ...