Last Wednesday I was delighted to lead a new mystery day tour for my friends at Take it Easy Tours. This time, Jason was our driver as we meandered the picturesque backroads of Rangitikei and Manawatu. There are so many interesting technical stories in this part of the world!
We checked out the Tutaenui Reservoir near Marton and the unique-to-New Zealand cantilevered bridge at Mangaweka, and we learnt lots about the Lower North Island electricity system with visits to local GXPs (Grid Exit Points), wind turbines, substations, an old power station and high-voltage pylons.
Equally important were our refreshment stops – a fabulous morning tea in the sunshine at Hunterville (complete with delicious home-baking by Jason’s mum), an old-school two-course lunch at the Cheltenham Hotel, and an ice cream stop at the Honey Shop on the way home. Yum!
Also, a highlight was our visit to the heritage-listed Hoffman Kiln in Palmerston North, with volunteer Cliff on hand for a personalised tour of the kiln and informative museum.
All-in-all a perfect day out.