I mentioned to Marja of 'A Dutch Corner in New Zealand" blog, that we were going to NZ and I was keen to see Akaroa because I had seen her beautiful photos of this area near Christchurch. Marja offered to be our hosts for a weekend. She and William were wonderful to us. They took us sight seeing and offered us to stay overnight. They are great tour guides as they are very passionate about NZ.
Marja and William our wonderful blogging friends and tour guides. The first place they took us to was Fisherman's Bay Garden. It was developed by Jill and Richard Simpson, who turned their once rugged farm into a lush combination of flower beds, natives and green lawns that still remembers its farming past. This idyllic garden offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the stark beauty of Banks Peninsula.
There were many sculptures too.
After this our friends took us to see the views overlooking Akaroa and we visited the village. (next post).
Imagine a farm garden overlooking the ocean. What a treat for you to be guided and hosted by your blogging bud. I look forward to more...
ReplyDeleteThe kindness of strangers always impresses me, even if they are not exactly strangers.
ReplyDeleteIt's always a pleasure to meet a fellow blogger in person. It must have been doubly marvelous to meet in such a beautiful area.
ReplyDeleteAwesome post, Diane. What a gorgeous country. AND--I KNOW how much you enjoyed meeting another blogger.. That is always my greatest joy---like when we met you and Bill.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Betsy
How wonderful, meeting blogging friends is such a joy. We still think fondly of you both from the time we met when you were in Washington DC. Gorgeous scenery in New Zealand.
ReplyDeleteTerrific! How wonderful that you met a blogging friend and had personal tour guides. Beautiful photos from a beautiful part of the world.
ReplyDeleteHow wonderful to meet such lovely people.
ReplyDeleteLove the flowers over looking the hills to the sea.
lovely photos as usual Diane of a very picturesque part of the world. i love the sculpture. it looks like you enjoyed your visit very much
ReplyDeleteFantastic photos wow you got great skills diane The colours are great and these close-ups of the flowers....amazing :) It was a great day wasn't it
ReplyDeleteYes it was and thanks again for making it so. Thanks for your compliment especially from you who also takes fabulous photos.
DeleteBeautiful photos Diane...love that sculpture!
ReplyDeleteA wonderful garden in an idyllic situation - though I'll bet that being so close to the ocean poses all kinds of problems for gardening.
ReplyDeleteHello Diane, I love the garden by the ocean and the cool sculpture. Great shot of your blogging friends. Sounds like a wonderful visit and tour, beautiful photos. Happy Wednesday, enjoy your day!
ReplyDeleteAlways great to meet in person the people we have become friendly with on-line. The gardens were lovely and colorful.
ReplyDeleteThat is very sweet of Marja and her husband to show you around there. NZ nature always looks so full of green and colours.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful place indeed!
ReplyDeleteWhat a super blogging meet-up experience Diane. I have heard that New Zealand is a fantastic destination!.
ReplyDeletedefinitely hnice landscape, So blogging friends are always very friendly
ReplyDeleteI love the looks of this cottage garden overlooking the sea. I strive to make mine have a similar informal look (though there is no ocean). Nice to meet a blog friend while traveling!
ReplyDeletewhat a beautiful spot, the flowers are wonderful as are the views. so nice of them to take you around.. enjy
ReplyDeleteIt is great meeting bloggers, so far everyone I have met has been on the same wave length as me :-) That sculpture is different! Have a good day t'other Diane
ReplyDeleteWhat fun to meet our cyber friends in person. The gardens look beautiful.
ReplyDeleteThe bright flowers are perfect agains the blue sea.
ReplyDeleteOh, this is all so grand. Oh what a day that will be when I see NZ again and Marja for the first time.
ReplyDeleteIt he colors are so pretty and your photos are marvelous. I've had such fun meeting fellow bloggers, too. Part of the fun of blogging!
ReplyDeleteHow nice to meet a blogfriend life and who shows you the country ! Your pictures are beautiful ! Unfortunately I couldn't find a link to the blog of your friend. Are they living in New Zealand ?
ReplyDeleteYes and her blog is called A dutch Corner in New Zealand. I"ll send you a link by email.
DeleteThis is just wonderful. What great blogging friends!
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