Week 38: Macetown and Chester

Last weekend we went out to Macetown. Him Outdoors ran there and I rode my rusty mountain bike. The track follows the river as it rushes bright and cold over the stones and down the gorge. The trees which line the banks are bare and vulnerable, ready to burst into bud, and the mountains are brilliant in the background.

The water pipe is a great feat of engineering and dedication - the strong iron tubes carried the water from the hills down the gorge to supply Arrowtown below during the Gold Rush. After the flood of 1999 the old pipe was restored and the rusting holes sealed for the irrigation scheme to be used once more. A monument of stone, iron and rusting billy cans marks the herculean endeavours of the men who built it.

Thanks to everyone who has expressed concern for Chester. He is recovering well from his vet visit and is back to his 'normal' self - chewing cardboard boxes and curling up on his favourite blanket.

These beautiful irises and freisas are part of my commitment to have fresh flowers in the house.