At Soljans Estate Winery
Soljans Estate Winery and Cafe in Kumeu celebrated Easter in the tradition of Croatian harvest festivals. Here a few images of the Dalmatian Kola Dancers.
Dalmatian Kola Dancers
Dalmatian Kola Dancers
Dalmatian Kola Dancers
Dalmatian Kola Dancers
Tony Soljan
Vineyards at Kumeu
Kumeu River Wines along State Highway 16 at Kumeu. Bird netting to keep the starlings and their friends off the grapes.
Vineyards at Kumeu
Strawberry Field near Kumeu
… in the making of strawberries. Seen at Kumeu.
New season strawberries are in the shops now, yummy!
Reflecting
Behind me is the hustle and bustle of last Sunday’s Kumeu Country Market. This chap has found the ideal spot for reflection.
For more weekend reflections, go to James’ Weekend Reflections site.
Roadside Offer
I thought that these are bought by the sh**load rather then by the kilogram – but here we are. Just north of Kumeu, kind of horse country, yet this sign is at an orchard. No, they are not diversifying into the fertiliser business, rather a case of “apples to apples” (if you have horses; but pigs, rabbits, poultry, and more, all seem to enjoy unsold apples from last year).
The Alien
I have driven past this guardian of the north end of Kumeu’s (or is it Huapai?) Main Street many times, but never taken the time to take a picture of this junk art alien – should go well with the exhibition at Corban Estate Art Centre. In contrast to yesterday’s guardian at the opposite end of Kumeu, this is not an industrial neighbourhood. Must be alien-friendly people living here. Does he have a distance relationship with the girl at Cottle Motors?
More Skywatch images at the Skywatch Site!
Welcome to Kumeu
In the spirit of the exhibition, opening tonight, at the Corban Estate Art Centre (if perhaps in a simpler style?) we present this female form which stands guard at the southern approach into Kumeu, outside Cottle Motors and Auto Electrix.
Persimmon Tree in Fruit
I was not the only one who appreciated the persimmon orchard on State Highway 16 just north of Kumeu, although I was content with visual appreciation. As I approached, a flock of mynah birds and starlings made off into the high shelter trees, only to return a few moments later. An abundance of fruit, so conspicuous as the leaves are falling.
Persimmon Orchard
Red Roses at Kumeu River Winery
It’s the time of year again when the vineyards get shrouded in bird netting. These vines have been under cover for a few weeks and want out, as do the roses which are planted at almost every other row according to ancient tradition.
Kumeu River Winery, next to State Highway 16.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Mate's Vineyard
Young growth in Mate’s Vinyard of Kumeu River Wines. These are 18-year old plants of the Mendoza clone chardonnay grapes. A beauty to behold.