Autumn

The long days of summer have morphed into shorter, slightly cooler days of Autumn. What an amazing time of year, possibly one of my favourites. Lush greens turn into beautiful golds and coppers, with hints of coral and rich burgundy reds.

Easter is family time, a time when we close the Villa to guests and open it to family or take a trip to another part of our beautiful country. This year we all headed to the incredible Wairarapa, situated on the lower Eastern side of the North Island. The Autumn leaves have already started to fall and a crisp nip was in the air. A visit to Martinborough, an amazing area that produces some of the best Pinot Noir in the world, included cellar visits and seasonal food cooked with passion completed our time in this gorgeous town. This area is steeped in history and scenery to rival anywhere in our beautiful country. Flat ancient river beds seamlessly mould into rolling hills and then on to the spectacular coast, rugged and strong. The amazing formation at Castle Point is so unique and beautiful, a little remote but spectacular so worth the drive. The tall white lighthouse has guided ships safely past on their way to Wellington for many years. My Grandfather was a lighthouse keeper there when he was young, so it is a very special place to visit.

Back at the villa, the figs are coming to an end, lettuce, beetroot, spring onions are all ready to be harvested, along with Chinese cabbages and chillies, all from our two small raised vege gardens. There is something extra special about harvesting from your own garden.

The grape vine is starting to lose its leaves and the roses are having one last burst of colour. The camellia hedge is in fine form, with beautiful shades of pristine pink to the palest blush flowers sitting next to, shiney dark moody green leaves.

It’s time to put the winter maintenance plan into action as we do every Autumn, to make sure the Villa is in top shape for the Summer season of guests.