LOOKING IN THE SQUARE- A picture records a moment in time

2012-01-23T15:12:00.000+13:00

A Light Fitting on the Victoria Bridge, Hamilton
These lanterns look very attractive on the Victoria Bridge, installed during the last major upgrade a few years ago. Though electric they have that old world look about them.

2012-01-15T21:09:00.000+13:00

The Rose Gardens at Hamilton Gardens
A part-view of the Rose Gardens which make up a big part of the prized Hamilton Gardens. There are many different named rose varieties here, and many are valued varieties grown by Sam McGredy, world renowned rose grower and breader, originally from Ireland and now living in New Zealand. His roses include names such as the pink Sexy Rexy and the red climber Dublin Bay.

Some of his later roses received New Zealand names, such as Aotearoa.

2012-01-12T21:28:00.000+13:00

My Grandfather's grave headstone

I never knew my grandfather. He died before I was born - of gas poisoning which caused him respiratory problems. He was exposed to the gas during his time on the battlefields during the First World War. His death and burial occured in Hamilton on return from the War.

This grave is in the Hamilton East Soldiers' Cemetery.

2012-01-07T11:39:00.000+13:00

Patchwork and Quilt display

This display of the Waikato Patchwork and Quilters Guild was featured at last year's Waikato A and P show. Those who are not involved in this sort of activity generally do not appreciate how much work goes into making features such as these.

2012-01-05T21:56:00.000+13:00

Retired shunter engine at the Hamilton Lake

This old shunter engine has had a varied life but now it has been restored and retired to the Hamilton Lake Domain for children to explore and play on. Any moving parts have been fixed in place and welded for safety, so this magnificent old engine is now here for posterity.

2012-01-02T14:11:00.000+13:00

Post in the river

This post is probably a part of a small jetty on the side of the Waikato River. It doesn't now appear to be connected to the existing jetty so its exact purpose is uncertain. Perhaps it was to stop boats from hitting the jetty and doing damage?

2011-12-29T15:08:00.000+13:00

Convergence
A jetty on the Waikato River, looking downstream. The bridge in the distance is the Whitiora Bridge.

2011-12-21T20:07:00.000+13:00

Maori Carving Head
This carved head is part of a Maori carving located at the Kirikiriroa Pa site above the Waikato River at the east end of London Street, Hamilton City. It can look quite terrifying to the uninitiated!

2011-12-20T19:57:00.000+13:00

Happy Christmas to you and yours and best wishes for a successful New Year - Dave & Jill

2011-12-18T20:07:00.001+13:00

Ferry across the Tauranga Harbour

This little boat ploughs its way across the Tauranga Harbour several times a day from Tauranga to Mt Maunganui. Though two major roads and a harbour bridge join the two cities, this little ferry is still popular, especially among holiday makers, as a fun way to cross the harbour.

2011-12-17T20:11:00.000+13:00

Knick Nacks

A shop with a shelves full of knick nacks for sale. Buy your ornaments here!

2011-12-15T21:08:00.000+13:00

Peace Lilly

A lovely peace Lilly flower, photo taken at the Hamilton Gardens Hothouse earlier this year.

2011-12-11T21:26:00.000+13:00

A family enjoying a day at Hamilton Gardens.
It was a lovely day - too good to resist. A family enjoying having a day out at the Hamilton Gardens.

2011-12-05T21:47:00.001+13:00

Canopy of green
A green tree canopy of new leaves makes a restful shaded view from below on a hot day.

2011-12-02T22:13:00.002+13:00

Livingstone Daisies

This bowl of brightly coloured Livingstone Daisies sitting on our patio are currenly in full bloom on days that are sunny and warm. This is most days, but just occasionally cooler days or no sun may prevent them from giving a nice wide-open display.

2011-11-25T16:30:00.001+13:00

Hats, Hats, Hats

Hats for sale at a garden centre make an interesting topic for a photo I think?

Click to enlarge.

2011-11-18T11:16:00.000+13:00

Just steps

Nothing amazing here. I just thought that these steps at the Hamilton Gardens would make a good photo.

2011-11-14T21:48:00.000+13:00

A place to relax at Hamilton Gardens
This sheltered location is a great place to sit and shelter from the rain, or the sun on a hot day. One can relax looking over Turtle Lake and, if you like, partake of a home-prepared picnic.

In the distance, hard to see here is a small waterfall

2011-11-12T13:40:00.000+13:00

Big gum tree
This big gum tree occupies a conspicuous place at the entrance to the Rhodadendron Lawn at the Hamilton Gardens. It is very tall and looks magnificent.

2011-11-09T22:15:00.000+13:00

Ornaments for sale at the recent Royal Show in Hamilton

I like these humorous figureens. They are very photogenic and are funny to view.

2011-11-08T20:55:00.000+13:00

Concrete sculpures for sale at the Royal Show

This is one of the commercial stands at the Royal Show. I thought this group of concrete sculptures made a tidy display.

2011-11-06T12:07:00.000+13:00

Auckland tall building
This photo was taken while I was being driven through Auckland streets.

2011-10-17T17:40:00.000+13:00

The Waikato River at Hamilton
I feel a strong affinity for the Waikato River. Though this part of the river is straight for about one kilometre, the rest of the river flows in twisting turns through our city and is a thing of natural wonder and beauty. I find enjoyment and peace whenever I am beside it. It also serves our city for water supply and as a source of recreation for those who have power boats or wish to water ski. Rowing and dragon boating sports are also carried out here giving extra enjoyment of our fine river as well as raft races in summer. The Waikato River is the character and heart of our city.

2011-10-15T20:53:00.000+13:00

Sign at Auckland Airport
Sign on the wall of the Dining Area at the Auckland airport. It refers to young New Zealanders heading for destinations overseas for their big OE.

2011-10-13T21:38:00.001+13:00

A UFO?

Nah. Just a sculpture, or something, in Palmer's Garden Centre, Hamilton.

I have given it a bit of sepia treatment to try to make it look more realistic.

Click on the photo to enlarge.

2011-10-10T20:06:00.000+13:00

Lighting Standard
This lighting standard is at the Hamilton Gardens. The shape gives the appearance of a bygone era and they look good.

2011-10-08T20:06:00.001+13:00

Architectural Building in Cambridge
I came upon this building in Cambridge recently and had never noticed it before. I thought it looked quite effective and very different to other buildings around the town.

2011-10-07T19:54:00.000+13:00

For a child's amusement
One of those stationary cars that kids can sit in while their mothers shop. This was outside a pet shop and it looked like it would make a good photo, so here it is.
Click on the photo to enlarge.

2011-10-05T11:20:00.000+13:00

ANZAC Memorial at Te Awamutu, Waikato
I was impressed by this ANZAC Memorial plinth. The NZ flag flying beside it added a special meaning.

New Zealanders are not usually very patriotic - it's not a part of our training - but it felt good to see this recently.

2011-07-13T20:37:00.000+12:00

Hamilton central city skyline from across the Waikato River
I think that views across water always seem to be interesting, hence this shot taken during our grand daughter's Waka race on Saturday. It is a view of the back of buildings which mainly face Hamilton's main shopping street, Victoria Street.

The Waikato River is one of Hamilton's natural beauty attractions. What makes it an interesting one is that it is only straight where it runs past the central shopping centre. The remainder of the river's course meanders through the city, adding to its interest and beauty. There are well laid river paths on the city side which run for several kilometres and are shared between walkers and cyclists, and some limited paths also along the opposite side of the river.

Our city is now beginning to gain a tourist interest, but mainly it is a place of interest and beauty for our residents. Click on the photo to enlarge.

2011-07-10T14:31:00.000+12:00

Hamilton Band Rotunda
This band rotunda is a part of Hamilton's history and has been there for as long as I can remember, and I was born and grew up in this town. Unfortunately, today being Sunday and with libraries shut I was unable to find any information about this structure other than that it has been used in recent years as an entertainment facility often for the use of pop-bands, though in years gone by it would have been used by traditional bands to entertain local people, probably on sedate Sunday afternoons, though I must admit I have never been to such an activity.

Jill and I had to rise early the day this photo was taken, and it is a bit of an unusual shot for me because the sun was just rising over the trees across the Waikato River and was shining directly onto the structure illuminating it nicely.

Click on the photo to enlarge.

2011-07-04T17:32:00.000+12:00

Pukeko
The Pukeko is a New Zealand wading bird, found around lakes or swampy land. Because it is so prevalent around the Hamilton Lake many people treat it with contempt, much like you might a seagull or pigeon. But I like the Pukeko and think it is an attractive bird with its blue/black colouring topped off with its red 'cap.'

It is generally a shy bird, non-aggressive and co-exists easily with other wild fowl like ducks, geese and pigeons. In spring to summer it usually has one or two chicks and protects them by encouraging them to stay amongst the reads.

Though most of the Pukeko found in Hamilton are not credited with flying we have visited other habitats elsewhere in NZ where they fly quite readily and can be seen roosting in the trees.

2011-06-23T21:56:00.000+12:00

The Brand New Claudelands Event Centre - Hamilton, NZ
This brand new building was officially opened to the public last Saturday, and won the hearts and minds of Hamilton people, including some who may have been critical of its cost.

I for one felt very proud of this new addition to our city.

2011-06-11T16:30:00.000+12:00

Mount Pirongia

Though this is really no more than a high hill we call it Mt Pirongia which is located in the western Waikato near the western coast.

2011-04-29T21:46:00.000+12:00

Autumn Leaf Mosaic

The beauty of autumn shows through these dying leaves, which have served their purpose through spring and summer in aiding the tree to process food and air for it's nourishment, and are now no longer required over the cold winter period.

In spring new leaves will appear and continue the same living process which these leaves provided.

2011-04-27T11:35:00.000+12:00

Up and away!
A hot air balloon sails off into the rising sun.

2011-04-24T20:28:00.000+12:00

Autumn Tree colouring
Autumn is a very colourful and lovely season of the year with all of those yellows, oranges, and browns. Its as if , although winter is on its way, the season of autumn is saying, "Here, enjoy my beautiful displays and remember them when the harshness of winter arrives."

2011-04-21T20:31:00.001+12:00

A Blue Car

Could this be called a Classic Car? I don't know, but from where I stood across the road and down a bit it looked great! It's probably as old as me and probably in as good a condition :-) .

It was spotted at Tirau during our visit there today.

2011-04-16T12:23:00.000+12:00

Sunset
This photo is from my collection. I liked it so here it is.

2011-04-14T09:34:00.001+12:00

Surfer with stick?
This picture wasn't taken recently.

I haven't seen this kind of surfing so don't know what it is called. Perhaps someone can tell me?

Click on photo to enlarge.

2011-04-11T17:17:00.001+12:00

Wind Generation over Suburbia
These wind electricity generating turbines overlook this township. I never took a note of where it was but it is somewhere in the southern North Island not too far from Wellington. Perhaps Fielding?
This photo was taken during our rail trip from Hamilton to Wellington

2011-04-04T17:35:00.002+12:00

Under the Whitiora Bridge

Sometimes architecture can be interesting to see from angles that are unintended. From the top this bridge is very plain but practical. Underneath the curves of its structure can be interesting to see.

Click on picture to enlarge.

2011-04-01T21:50:00.000+13:00

Crecsent moon in a grey sky

I took this photo late one hazy afternoon. At first I wasn't impressed by it at all, then tonight I took another look and decided it was special in its own way.

Click on picture to enlarge.

2011-03-30T21:40:00.007+13:00

Wahine Memorial Plaque
On April 10, 1968, the Wahine inter-island ferry, travelling from Lyttleton to Wellington, was caught in a violent storm and the skipper decided to make a run for the safety of the Wellington Harbour, but the winds caught the ship as she entered port and blew her onto rocks just inside the harbour entrance. The Wahine was holed and began to list and sink. Here is an account of the incident from the following web site -

http://www.nzhistory.net.nz/culture/wahine-disaster

Wellington Harbour Tragedy

The sinking of the Lytteton–Wellington ferry Wahine on 10 April 1968 was New Zealand’s worst modern maritime disaster. Fifty-one people lost their lives that day, another died several weeks later and a 53rd victim died in 1990 from injuries sustained in the wreck. The Wahine’s demise also marked a coming of age for television news broadcasting in New Zealand as images of the disaster were beamed into the nation’s living rooms. The footage was later screened around the world as the international media spotlight focused on Wellington.

Would-be rescuers stood helplessly on the beach at Seatoun as the Wahine succumbed to one of the worst storms recorded in New Zealand history. It seemed impossible that so many lives could be lost so close to shore. Although the main cause of the accident was the atrocious weather conditions, the subsequent inquest also acknowledged that errors of judgement had been made both on board the ferry and on shore. Shipwrecks were commonplace in the 19th century, but this was the 1960s – how could a large, modern vessel founder almost within sight of New Zealand’s capital city?

The plaque picture above was taken beside the beach at Eastbourne where most of the bodies of the victims who died were washed ashore.

Blame for this accident was attributed to no one and was just an unfortunate incident due to the wild weather.

2011-03-28T21:20:00.000+13:00

Alas poor Yorick (Hamlet)

No, this is not he, but another.... This fine looking specimen is located in the Te Papa museum in Wellington, and is there to teach us a lesson about fossils.

Click to enlarge
.

2011-03-24T21:35:00.000+13:00

Colourful boats in a rack at Eastbourne, Wellington.

2011-03-21T20:27:00.000+13:00

Hot Air Balloon at Sunset
This gives an eerie feel as the dusk approaches. But it is only because the camera is facing the sinking sun and has adjusted to reduce the brightness of the light that the sky looks so dark. Its not dark, of course, as balloons wouldn't fly in the dark here as I expect they would not be permitted to by law.
Click to enlarge.

2011-03-18T21:36:00.001+13:00

Eastbourne
This is a part of the shopping area of Eastbourne, around the harbour from Wellington. The shopping area isn't very big, but then, neither is Eastbourne's population. For any important shopping a drive around the bays to Lower Hutt or even Wellington isn't far to go. Even catch a bus. These are regular and offer an excellent service, or one can catch the boat from Days Bay just around the corner in the next bay to go to Wellington, providing the harbour isn't too rough to stop the boat from running.
Click on the photo to enlarge.

2011-03-11T22:39:00.000+13:00

A view from Wellington Zoo

This picnic area is a part of the Wellington Zoo, and beyond is the Wellington suburb of Newtown.

Click to enlarge the photo.

2011-03-09T17:25:00.000+13:00

Last paddle before dinner
I would go down to the Petone beach each night before the sun set for the day during our stay there. Each evening these two would be down there too. I think they might live near by. The older man looked like he may have been the boy's granddad.

It was nice to see them enjoying each other's company.
Click on the picture to enlarge.

2011-03-06T21:42:00.000+13:00

Bunting
This colourful bunting hangs across the shopping area at Eastbourne, across the Port Nicholson Harbour from Wellington City. it gives a bit of summery festive atmosphere while shopping here.
Click on the picture to enlarge

2011-03-04T20:18:00.000+13:00

Building the original Hapuawhanua Viaduct
This Viaduct was built near National Park on the main North/South railway link in the North Island of New Zealand. It has since recently been replaced so is no longer in use by the Railways.

What makes this photo of interest is the wording at the bottom left of the picture. Click on the photo to enlarge.

2011-03-02T22:23:00.000+13:00

A Mural on the wall at Petone beach
This mural was decorating the wall at Petone beach and represents a Maori story. Click to enlarge.

2011-02-28T21:25:00.001+13:00

Fancy paving design
This can be found at the Petone foreshore in the Wellington Region.

2011-02-26T18:54:00.000+13:00

On the wall in a restaurant...
This blackboard was on the wall in a restaurant in Eastbourne, Wellington, during our visit recently. I thought the play on words was clever.

2011-02-23T21:18:00.000+13:00

Sunset at Petone Beach
Petone is a small town, now a suburb of Lower Hutt, and is located across the harbour from Wellington City metropolitan area. During our recent holiday in Wellington we stayed in a motel in Petone, just beside the Petone Beach.

In this photo the sun is setting over the western hills surrounding the harbour, and in the gloam you can see the outline of the Petone Wharf, now rarely used by ships and mostly used by recreational fishermen. There used to be an abattoir in Petone and the wharf may once have been used to load meat aboard ships for export, or distribution around the New Zealand coast. I don't really know its history. Click picture to enlarge.

2011-02-12T21:53:00.000+13:00

Writing Desk and Model Ship
The sun is getting low in the sky allowing it to shine through the west-facing window to cast its light on our old family writing desk with the model of the warship HMS Victory, sent as a gift from an English friend, and a black model elephant brought back from Thailand by our daughter Sandra after a holiday there.
Click to enlarge the photo.

2011-02-10T21:15:00.000+13:00

A bowl of Cheerful Marigolds
This photo was taken as the sun was setting and the red end of the colour spectrum was highlighted.

I had recently watered them so if you enlarge the photo by clicking on it you can see the water droplets.

2011-02-08T20:17:00.002+13:00

Home for a Gnome

This little fellow sat guarding one of our nearby flower gardens for a few years until his colours faded and he had to finally be removed for respectability-sake. He sat on my workbench in the garage for about a year until I finally felt motivated enough to purchase some paints, also using some of my house and fence paints, and gave him renewed red jacket, green pants and hat, black shoes, and a repaint of other things including his pink face.

Now he is back, reinstated to his former glory and on guard once again.

He doesn't have a name, but if readers care to suggest some names he will probably be delighted!

2011-02-04T22:37:00.000+13:00

A lovely tree
This lovely tree is a New Zealand Rata in full bloom of orange-coloured blossoms. The tree is near the beach at Raglan and the photo was taken earlier this year. (Click on photo to enlarge)

2011-01-30T20:55:00.000+13:00

Dappled clouds at sunset
Sunsets can be quite beautiful if one is about outside when they occur. I was lucky to catch this one.

2011-01-28T21:54:00.005+13:00

A modified photograph
This is a piece cut from a more comprehensive photo I took recently. It has been modified with photographic software to give the appearance of something else. The picture has also been turned (poorly) into a painting using the software. I suppose I could entitle it "A Structure in a Natural Setting." (Click on the picture to enlarge.)

2011-01-26T21:07:00.002+13:00

Macro Keyboard Photo
I guess this is a bit of a dumb photo to put on a blog, but I thought it might have some merit. After all, while experimenting with my new camera it seemed to take this photo all by itself, and as it seemed an unusual shot I kept it. So here it is.

This is my computer keyboard taken when the camera was lying on the desk.

Clever camera :-) (Click on photo to enlarge)

2011-01-21T20:52:00.000+13:00

Hamilton's Fairfield Bridge
This is one of Hamilton's iconic bridges. It is a construction of reinforced concrete and was probably the second bridge built for vehicle traffic across the Waikato River at the northern end of the city.

Click to enlarge. That mark in the water is a duck taking off.

2011-01-19T22:03:00.002+13:00

Old Military 'pill box'
This now-decrepit concrete structure was built during World War Two as a guard post to man and help deter any Japanese invasion which might try to enter New Zealand from the sea here at Raglan.

Though the structure is probably as strong now as it was when built it has suffered its exposure to all weathers over the previous 70-odd years. It has also been adorned by the usual mindless graffiti.

2011-01-17T21:15:00.000+13:00

Holidaymakers fishing at the Raglan Wharf
During the Christmas holiday break fishing is as good a way as any to pass a lazy summer's day. Here are several families on holiday trying to teach their children how to fish. I doubt if they will catch anything in this location as if you click and enlarge the picture you can see that the water here is only very shallow.

2011-01-15T13:17:00.001+13:00

Silos at Raglan, NZ
These silos near the Raglan wharf were converted to flats (small apartments). I would like to be able to see them inside.
Click on photo to enlarge.

2011-01-11T22:01:00.000+13:00

A beautiful shrub at Hamilton Gardens
I was impressed by the beauty of this flowering shrub. Unfortunately I don't know the name of the plant variety, so if anyone can tell me I will be pleased.
Click on photo to enlarge.

2011-01-09T13:53:00.001+13:00

Maori Carving at the Hamilton Gardens
This fellow is almost frightening hiding there amongst the shrubbery.

Click on picture to enlarge.

2011-01-05T22:04:00.000+13:00

Help - Advice required please
While looking at my father and grandfather's war medals recently I found this piece of memorabilia and have no idea where it came from or what or who it represents. If anyone can tell me I will be grateful.

At a guess the globe shows the North and South American continents focussing on South America, and the anchor seems to indicate a navy. Does the eagle represent the United States? I wonder if it could represent the US Merchant Navy? Or perhaps the navy of a south American country?

Help from readers will be appreciated.

2011-01-02T20:58:00.000+13:00

A covered trellis walkway at Hamilton Gardens
I walked around the gardens on Saturday taking lots of photos and thought this trellis looked good for a picture. It divides one garden theme from another. The Hamilton Gardens complex is well worth one or several visits.

2010-12-29T09:24:00.000+13:00

Got me dinner!
An ant I spotted heading off with a piece of potato chippie. I think it thought it was onto a good thing!

2010-10-19T20:35:00.000+13:00

Grafitti

This grafitti is on a bridge wall in Hamilton.

I never found it particularly clever, but it just seemed to be making a comment - maybe from an annoyed grafittiist who's work was constantly deleted? I wonder...?

2010-10-09T15:14:00.000+13:00

Fungus Photos.

Thanks to my friend Gary in Alaska for these two photos.

Fungus can make fascinating pictures, specially with the amazing variety that can be available in our forests, walking tracks and even gardens.

Being sadly short of photos for this blog due to an unpleasant winter and spring I asked Gary if he had something I could use here and he sent me these and some other photos which I hope to use later.

Thanks again Gary.

2010-09-20T21:52:00.000+12:00

Bull Sculpture

This fellow is to be found in the lawn by the highway at Hamilton Gardens. Being a dairy beast he typifies the Waikato as a farming region.

Unfortunately I can not say who carved him as I have had this photo for a couple of years and no longer have any information about this artwork.

Not far away from here is a laboratory where pedigree bulls are kept and their semen milked and stored for artificially inseminating pedigree cattle.

2010-09-17T22:35:00.000+12:00

Just a selection of standard lights around Hamilton

2010-09-15T20:57:00.000+12:00

The Farming Family statue

In 1990 prominent business man Sir Robert Jones donated this statue to the city of Hamilton to "commemorate the ordinary farming family as being the unsung heroes of our first 150 years".

The statue, is a bronze life-sized sculpture by Margriet Windhausen van den Berg of Timaru, NZ.

The Farming Family consists of a male farmer and his wife, two young children, a dairy cow, a sheep and a dog and is located on a traffic island at the intersection of Victoria Street and the southern end of Ulster Street.
(Click on picture to enlarge)

2010-09-13T20:24:00.001+12:00

Clouds

Many bloggers have a facination with clouds and I would be no acception.

This photo is from my archives, from a series which I took a couple of years ago. In a couple of days I will be showing some of the others in the series on my main blog at cimba7200.blogspot.com Many are quite dramatic I think.

(Click on photo to enlarge)

2010-09-10T22:35:00.000+12:00

The Waikato River

This view of the Waikato River and Ferrybank Lounge was taken from the Victoria Bridge looking west towards town.

2010-09-08T20:55:00.000+12:00

Wooden cat ornaments

These two handsome fellas were hand-made by local people in Phuket, southern Thailand, and were brought back as a gift by our daughter Sandra after her family's holiday there - fortunately before the large tsunami hit.

Jill treasures them and they have pride of place in our lounge.

2010-09-06T21:39:00.001+12:00

Baby Toys

While in Tauranga we walked past this shop which had these baby toys hanging in the window. I thought they would make a colourful photo, so here it is.

(Click picture to enlarge)

2010-09-05T19:42:00.000+12:00

Picture Grafitti, Tauranga
I enjoy this type of legal grafitti which is painted on the sides of plain buildings to brighten them up and relieve the monotony.

Many of the artists who do these works are very talented. This 'mural' is on a wall down an alleyway among the shops in Tauranga, Bay of Plenty.

2010-08-31T15:31:00.001+12:00

Moth Orchid

This beautiful Orchid was at the Hamilton Gardens hothouse last year.

2010-08-29T20:17:00.000+12:00

Ground Leaf Mosaic
These leaves were undisrurbed last autumn. I liked their variety and colour and thought that the photo might make a good wallpaper on my computer desktop.

2010-08-27T21:41:00.000+12:00

Piha Beach
This must be one of the most dangerous beaches in New Zealand which are used as general swimming beaches.

Piha Beach is located on the west coast, west of Auckland City. It has a very experienced team of surf life guards who are very professional and they are kept very busy during the holiday season rescuing many irresponsible swimmers who don't seem to have the intelligence to realise the dangers, and continue to take unnecessary risks.

The beach is dangerous because it has several hidden current rips as well as strong currents that can throw inexperienced boarders and swimmers against rocks beside the large rock visible here. Another danger can be large dangerous waves during heavy seas.
(Click to enlarge)

2010-08-25T20:22:00.001+12:00

Cutlery Mosaic pathway at Hamilton Gardens

I took this photo about a year ago at one of the feature gardens entitled the Kitchen Garden. I don't know what possessed the people setting up this garden to set this cuttlery in the mosaic path but, as with some of the other gardens here, some of the things done were 'tongue-in-cheek.' I guess as this was the 'Kitchen Garden' maybe they thought this was in keeping with the theme...?

You have to smile...

(Click photo to enlarge)

2010-08-23T20:52:00.000+12:00

Look into my eyes!

Looking into a cats face can sometimes be mesmerising.

(Click on picture to enlarge)

2010-08-19T17:31:00.001+12:00

Skeleton of a tree

Though still standing magnificently, this tree is no longer alive. Why did it die? I don't know. Maybe it was struck by lightning? Or perhaps, more likely, it was ringbarked by cattle in the same paddock?

(Click on picture to enlarge)

2010-08-17T20:55:00.000+12:00

Turtle Lake Waterfall, Hamilton Gardens
This waterfall looks great as a part of the Turtle Lake water feature at Hamilton Gardens. It is part of the flow of a stream which runs through the area and into the lake before exiting to run into the Waikato River further down.

Turtle Lake was man-made in the early days of developement of the gardens and is a vital part of the relaxing atmosphere the Gardens create, and is enjoyed by local people and tourists alike. In summer the Arts Festival is held in and around the many lawn and garden features in the Hamilton Gardens, which belong to, and are maintained by the Hamilton City Council on behalf of the residents of Hamilton. A proud asset and a jewel in the City's crown.

2010-08-15T20:52:00.000+12:00

The old Pumphouse, Waihi

This old pumphouse building at Waihi, a goldmining town in the North Island of NZ, had great sentimental value to the people of Waihi, so a great effort was made to move it several metres from its original location. It is now a part of the focal point of the town, as is the mighty great hole that the gold mining company has dug just near the pumphouses new location.

The photo below shows what the building looks like now.

2010-08-13T22:41:00.000+12:00

Hollyhock Flower
This hollyhock flower is one of about ten or more that grow on a long stem. Though the setting sun gives this flower an inner glow it is really a very deep blood-red colour and was one of my favourites from the approximately eight that we grew that year, The plants are amazing too as this one grew to nearly 2 &1/2 metres (about 8 feet) tall.

2010-08-11T20:53:00.000+12:00

In conversation
These two Asian girls were pretending to fish off this small jetty but seemed to be more concerned with intimate conversation.

2010-08-09T21:38:00.001+12:00

Stormwater drain

At first glance not a very inspiring photo is it? Actally it's still not very inspiring even after gazing at it for some time! Ah well, it will do for my shot of the day today ....
(Click on picture to enlarge - it looks better... )

2010-08-07T20:28:00.000+12:00

Mr Whippy
I guess most developed countries in the world have people who drive trucks like the one above and travel around the cities and beach resorts in summer selling ice creams from the rear of the truck. As they go they play a popular tune through a loudspeaker on the roof. In the case of this vehicle they play the song Greensleeves and the kids readily recognise who it is when they hear the tune.

They usually come around my area just on dinner time which must annoy Mums who know that their kids probably won't eat their dinner after a big ice cream!

2010-08-04T21:52:00.000+12:00

Hamilton Anglican Cathedral

This photo was taken from an unusual angle - the top of the Hamilton City Council car park in Knox Street.

For those unfamiliar with Hamilton this building with the clock is the Anglican Cathedral and is the only building of its type in Hamilton. It is built on land generously given to the Church by local Maori in the 19th century, soon after Hamilton was settled by Europeans. Land nearby was a fort, originally belonging to Maori but taken over by the British Militia during the early Land Wars with Maori. The fort no longer exists.

2010-08-02T20:55:00.000+12:00

Quaint stone bridge at the Te Awamutu
This quaint stone bridge is located in the Te Awamutu War Memorial Gardens, in the Waikato region just south of Hamilton. These older-style bridges add some magic to public and private gardens alike.

2010-07-31T20:33:00.000+12:00

Yellow flower

Type unknown. This small flower was taken by me. I think it was a weed, but it caught my eye as I admired its beauty.

2010-07-28T16:19:00.000+12:00

What have you got for me, huh, huh?

This duck looks quite anxious that we may just have a morsel of food for it.

2010-07-26T20:29:00.003+12:00

Autumn leaf mosaic

This photo was taken a while ago while walking amongst some trees on a day in autumn. The lovely bright orange, gold and brown leaves beckoned to be photographed as they clung to the branch, shortly to be cast off, their job now completed.

2010-07-24T20:21:00.000+12:00

Oops!

This is my attempt at a specialised subject photo. (The salt was spilled on purpose.)