Acland Falls, Peel Forest

Another trip to The Forest on Thursday to check out the house with a builder, giving it a once over and making sure that there were no hidden issues. It's looking good for an old place; pretty solid construction and all the timbers are true. There's been no sagging and it's borer free too. All good.

After the inspection, I decided to head up Rangitata Gorge Rd a bit further and wander up to the Acland Falls. The walk up there confirmed something I've known for sometime - I'm unfit. Very unfit. It's a bit of a climb, but nothing a man of my meagre years (well, sort of meagre) shouldn't be able to manage. My poor old knees didn't like the steps or the descent either, but it was well worth the walk.

The greenery in Peel Forest is eye-searing, especially in the damp parts like the hollow where the falls are located. Ferns and moss cling to surfaces that you would not believe to be penetrable. The smell of the forest is rich and earthy. It's a magical place. What's more I can't wait to be closer to the bush. Not long to go now hopefully - just need the council to hurry up and process things at our end asap!!