Dee and Gerald's place was anything but prefab, set on the grounds of Gerald's (and son William's) farm, with double glazing, insulation and radiators! We were almost nostalgic for the UK. However, sunrise the next morning made us glad we were in New Zealand, as we climbed a nearby hill for stunning blue-sky views over Mt Hutt, down the braided Rakaia River and to the Southern Alps (more on those later).
Come Saturday afternoon, Dee whisked us to Lake Coleridge, a glacial, blue pool that was enlarged to (hydro)power Christchurch in the early 20th century (the project was started in 1907!). Scenery plus impressive infrastructure - what more could you ask for? A delicious lamb roast dinner with 'hokey pokey' ice cream, as it turns out.
But then... Gerald took us on a trip to 3000ft in his plane! The clouds cleared and revealed the Southern Alps in instagram-friendly detail. We soared past waterfalls shooting off the edge of mountains, past snow-clad peaks and over braided blue river beds. Gerald's Cessna (at one point coughing the feathers of an unfortunate bird out of the air conditioning unit) took us up the Rakaia River into the heart of the mountains, almost as far as the West Coast. Thank you Gerald!
Dee then took us for some excellent real New Zealand pies at a local cafe in Hororata well known for its crusty treats, after which we enjoyed afternoon tea with some of Dee and Gerald's friends and then met their son and his family (now living in the main farmhouse). Some steaks, a little more red wine and some 'lolly cake' (like a UK fridge cake, but sweeter) later, we got an early night before an early flight the next day. This one was at 27,000ft and much less fun, since it delivered us to the office in time for a Monday morning of work.
Next week: Something less exciting, expect some close-up photos of food.
But for now...
Amazing views. Lot of food involved though, Roger. Think you have inherited the same Clarke foodie gene as Dave!!
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