Two weeks of sunshine, no wind or rain, fertile Papatawa soils and 30 dedicated gardeners made for a wonderful annual rose show.
On Monday, November 20, the Papatawa Hall was full of the most beautiful roses and other blooms as the Papatawa Garden Club - which has a long history of rose shows - held its annual event, timing to perfection the period when roses are at their best.
Nine judges took an age to choose the best, their task so hard it forced them to scrutinise the finest detail before pronouncing Betty Clapperton's Loving Memory the champion rose.
There were lots of other blooms, late rhododendrons, irises, lilies and many other varieties. There were hanging gardens, pot plants and floral creations – the hall barely had room for the lunch table.