Jude and I had a fantastic day today as we took my sister Una and husband Steve from Canberra Australia for a ride up to the Borland Saddle. Leaving from the farm at Otautau we headed to Brunel Peaks Cafe on the corner of Blackmount Redcliff Road and Lake Monowai Road for lunch, a beautiful cafe in a beautiful setting. The staff were absolutely wonderful and very welcoming, just had that personal touch. As for the food, a good selection, generous portions and everyone enjoyed every mouthful… well I did anyway, just a treat.

After topping off a wonderful meal we enjoyed a cup of coffee before continuing along Lake Monowai Road onto Borland Road, passed the Borland Lodge, up the Borland Burn South Branch to the Borland Saddle situated 990 meters above sea level. The road up the Borland Burn South Branch was in good condition however a slow comfortable ride made it enjoyable for all, especially that Noons (Una) was not exactly comfortable with heights. One good thing was the weather was excellent considering the hammering from the wind over the past week which added that special touch to the views.

On the way back we took the coastal route through Tuatapere, briefly (and I mean briefly lol) visiting McCrackens Lookout, Monkey Island and Riverton before returning to the farm at Otautau.

Yesterday my youngest brother Trevor from Fielding up in the North Island visited Jude and I on the farm. Was good to see him and had a good ride around the farm. Trev really loved the river block, but then he enjoyed the whole lot… I think it made him miss his farming days lol. (Sorry I didn’t get any pics bro) So all in all it was a special week for me and I certainly loved the opportunity to catch up with Trev, Noons(Una) and Steve. Safe travels home guys and will catch up again in the near future.🥰