More walking around

We started the day at Palemo Gardens about 30 minutes drive south of the city where Clive and Nicky started planting in the early 80's. Palm trees grown from seed now stand majestically guarding the house and garden (together with the noisy dachshunds).  The bamboo garden stood high and the lake a perfect background for a wedding (starting at 4 this afternoon). Heaps of cactus (wished we had worn long trou) and pottery and quirky places for cups, chandeliers and tea pots.  We lunched at Lake Wiritoa. The grass area was carless until we settled into chairs and opened our lunch boxes. Then about 6 arrived at the same time together with boats, jetskies and biscuits. Whanganui really does have it all - lake, sea, river, opera week (that lasts 13 days) and a vintage weekend.

We then went for a tour of Putiki church. We arrived an hour early (with the intention of a walk and a bit of an explore). A crowd was forming by the gate so we took our chances and joined. The Churton family reunion plus us and another two. Two guides Simon our official one who told us about the paintings and weaving. We should have escaped - but didn't. On came the other guide. Another 45 minutes of listening to family history. The church was built in 1935 - the others were made from brick (didn't get through earthquake), made from white pine (borer, rats, rot) and sandstone (local but crumbling). Reminded me of a fairy tale that starred three little pigs.

It was the sunniest day so far, lovely and warm. Perfect for relaxing with a good book. In the evening we did the walk along the river between the three bridges. Dinner was at a pub called The Red something with a view of the river - rather a nice way to spend new year's eve and the food was very good. And then Die Hard 2 is on tv (together with the Trivago ad every ad break - I promise never to use  them - there is something about too much advertising).