Nothing says spring has sprung quite like sweet cherry blossom. Bare trees transform into giant sticks of candy floss and confetti petals dance in the wind; it's like a little nudge from nature indicating winter's been given the boot, and all is well again.
With cherry blossoms erupting the length and breadth of New Zealand, and festivals both going ahead and being postponed due to Covid-19, some of us will be able to dive head first into the celebrations, while others might have to sneak a distanced peek over the neighbour's fence. Failing that, heading online to access a virtual cherry blossom event is a must.
For those at level 1 and 2 status, the NZ Cherry Blossom Festival is rolling out between September 26-October 3 at Tamahere's English Cherry Tree Manor in Hamilton, with each day boasting a different theme. In Wellington, at Aston Norwood Gardens, things are already in full swing with the annual Valley of Blossom festivities continuing until October 3. This year, patrons can also enjoy an evening light trail to admire the blossom under moonlight, complete with Asian-inspired picnics.
