During our trip through Molesworth Station in the South Island we stopped for lunch and took the 10 minute walk to see the view. We walked through this group of mares and foals all relaxing in the sun. They didn't pay much attention to us so I thought they wouldn't mind being part of my photo shoot.
This little foal really knows how to sunbathe.
Me and mini me.
From the horses viewpoint looking down on the homestead and other buildings.
And in the other direction across to the mountains that will be covered with snow come winter.
Sharing with
Buddleja Davidii (commonly called Buddleia) grows wild along our river. It is "under surveillance" as a "weed of concern" in this country because of it's ability to grow and dominate in a wide range of areas and soils.
Also known as butterfly bush, summer lilac or orange eye it has a beautiful scent and long cone shaped clusters of flowers
It is native to China and Japan and I can see why it was bought here to grow and perfume our gardens. Unfortunately it has escaped the confines of the garden and is taking over areas previously left to the native plants.
Travelling down a country road in the South Island and we spotted this...
Some creative minded person had transformed this old tree stump into "half a bull".
A close up was required, he was so impressive.
The sign said it all. Unfortunately the sculpture place that this fellow belonged to was closed. I would love to go back and see what else is on display.
On our trip through Molesworth Station in the South Island last week we noticed a lot of this blue flower everywhere.
It is called blue Borage (Echium Vulgare). As far as I can tell it's not related to the herb I have growing at home but it does have the same bright blue flower.
It grew well along the dirt road and near the river, but also popped up in small groups in other places.
Quite a stunning little flower to find growing wild.
Linking up with
We spotted this wonderful fence when we stopped for a coffee at a cafe in a little town called Tapawera, population just over 400. The town is surrounded by farms and orchards and is in a very pretty part of the top of the South Island.
On closer inspection none of the bikes have their front wheel anymore and are all attached to the back wheel of the bike in front.
A work of art and a great example of recycling at its best and most creative.
Last weekend we returned from a trip to the South Island. Our first stop was at Blenheim.
Pollard Park is over 24ha and includes a Golf course. The summer gardens were in full bloom.
The park has a stream meandering through it and the ducks and seagulls were there in good numbers.
There are a number of bridges over the stream, and a 1km fitness track which includes press up bars, stretching posts and all sorts of other equipment for the energetically minded.
This floral display is to mark the 100 year anniversary of World War 1.
A lot of beautiful large trees are scattered throughout the park and would probably date back to before it was opened 150 years ago.
Wild daisies in full bloom.
We have one paddock on the farm that covers itself in daisies every summer.
Just checking for rabbits...
I know they're hiding somewhere.
Getting up close.
