Yesterday John and I went on an outing to see The TreeChurch in nearby Ohaupo. (As aside, I'm trying to discourage John from calling an outing or day trip we might go on a "holiday," or I might never get any of those!)
I'd read about The TreeChurch in NZ House & Garden many years ago now. But it wasn't until a friend told me that it was open to the public on Sundays from 1-4 p.m. at this time of the year, and showed me photos she'd taken, that I knew we had to go see it, that it would inspire both John and me.
It is truly a special place, designed and built by Barry Cox, a serious tree person. And while we moan about all of the work we do here around Struan Farm, the maintenance associated with this place is on an entirely different level: robotic mower, pruning from cherry pickers, etc. We spent some time talking with Barry about the trees on and around the Church, particularly the beautiful white birches, "betula jacquemontii." He told me that the white bark is washed twice each year to remove the characteristic peeling and to keep that vibrant colour. These are the same trees we have along the Pet Paddock roadside fence (and yes, I may try to wash them to see what happens!). We had been giving some thought to planting these on the point near the historical Home Guard trenches at Struan Farm, but he discouraged us from planting them anywhere wind might be a problem.
The private garden is available as a wedding or event venue on a limited basis. Definitely worth a visit! $15 fee applies.
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