Himalayan Lily

Again, sweltering but despite the heat we decided to travel out to Orari Estate this morning to view the Himalayan Lilies.  They are the largest lilies in the world and one of the most spectacular when grown en-mass.  They are a woodland plant from the Himalayas and grow very successfully in NZ and in particular this area. Apparently they can grow up to 14 feet, but these ones were between 8 - 12 feet (only an estimate} 
The very large garden with ponds, streams, sweeping lawns are magnificent and surround a beautiful rather large two storied homestead. 
The Orari Estate is one of only four stations in South Canterbury which has never changed hands except by inheritance. The others are Te Waimate, Mount Peel and Mount Cook. Young in comparison to other parts of the world, the MacDonald brothers started a sheep run back in 1854. 
We wandered around for ages enjoying the surroundings.  It was very hot, and was thankful for the large trees giving shade to help us revive. The pond had a gorgeous white swan which enjoyed performing for us.
Very difficult photography conditions with the strong midday sun, giving dappled light/shade conditions throughout the gardens.   My photography wasn't really that successful, but not to worry.  I've put another couple of images of the lily in extra.  Those and some others are in Flickr.
A cooling southerly wind whipped through this afternoon, but no rain. The wind change brought the temperatures down to 25 deg. Its still pretty warm this evening.

Rainie