Dinner with Ainsley and Bruce at their "Lifesyle" Block

Before leaving for New Zealand, I had lunch with my friend, Beth Robinson, and her daughter, Heather.  Beth was born and raised in NZ.  While vacationing in Spain, she met her husband-to-be, an American named Dave.  Beth and Heather gave me suggestions for things "to do" and "to see".  Not only did I receive travel advice, but Beth gave me contact information for her brother and sister as well. 

Her brother, Bruce, and his wife, Ainsley live less than an hour from TeKauwhata and invited us for dinner last Thursday evening.  We had a delightful time!  The picture shows us at their "lifestyle block" posing in front of their beautiful flowers.  According to Bruce, "lifestyle blocks" are pieces of property in the country for people who are not farmers.  However, Ainsley and Bruce have gorgeous flower beds, raised garden plots, and a variety of treees. 

Will and I were very appreciative of the home-cooked ham meal with lots of home-grown veggies and blueberry buckle for dessert (blueberries from their garden as well).

The second picture shows Bruce with hand carved gifts from the Maori people.  A highlight of our NZ experience is spending time with the locals.