10 November 2004

On Sat 10th of October, from KeriKeri to Wellington, New Plymouth to Havelock North (apologies if there were any attendees from the South Island) about 40 IPPS members and prospective members gathered under threatening skies at Taupo Native Plant Nursery. Phillip Smith welcomed all and outlined the day’s happenings then gave a very informative talk about the goals and operations of the Native Plant Nursery as well as a very good low down on the conservation and problems of human impact on Lake Taupo and the surrounding area. Fortunately, the rain held off while we had a guided tour of the propagating areas and retail outlet.

Next stop was Waipahihi Botanical Gardens, a 35 hectare reserve featuring azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias and NZ natives. Despite drizzle, the short walk through a small section was well worth the visit. One of the problems facing places such as these is the ageing of the volunteer staff that are so dedicated to looking after such collections which have regularly been subjected to theft by “gardeners &/or others”.

After lunch in the gardens, it was off to Craters of the Moon for a 45 min or so walk in the rain viewing craters, bubbling mud and roaring fumaroles. Was amazing to spot plants growing under the most extreme of conditions, albeit not thriving and often very stunted but at least surviving!

Taupo Plants was next on the list- Graham Dewes is a grower of bedding plants- flowers and vegetables. A very neat and tidy operation which has found in recent times more and more difficult to survive in a market when so many of the smaller retail outlets have disappeared.

A planned trip to Huka Falls was decided against, after an unanimous decision that enough water had been seen by all, so it was on to Wishart Estate Huka Vineyard winery where we were lead through the finer art of wine tasting (and some internal watering).

To finish of a very successful day a good number met for a pleasant dinner at a local Italian restaurant. Thanks to Phillip and his team for arranging an interesting day.