Walking through Ayrlies

I just returned from a trip of a life time to the beautiful country of New Zealand. For nearly two weeks, I, along with Beth Hayes, Editor-in-Chief of McCall’s Quilting Magazine, and 40 wonderful quilters from the United States and Canada traveled far and wide across this beautiful country. We arrived at 3:30 a.m. New Zealand time (I have no time what time or day my body thought it was…lol..) and we headed off to our hotel in Auckland. Our first event was a walking tour through the amazing country gardens called “Ayrlies”.

Wonderful waterfalls

Although we were all a bit weary from the long flight, the beautiful sights were just what we needed to jump start our day.

Beth Hayes, Editor-In-Chief, of McCall's Quilting enjoying the beauty.

It is summer in New Zealand which Beth Hayes from Colorado and I from New Hampshire really enjoyed!

Beautiful water views from the gardens.

As if the gardens weren’t enough for our eyes, this beautiful view from a hillside garden was simply amazing.

Vivid colors

I had been to New Zealand several years ago and knew they were famous for their gardens, but I was so blown away with the variety of delicate flowers and vivid colors.

Peaceful settings

This lovely pool area was surrounded by beauty and we all rested for a bit of iced tea and take in the flowers.

Inspirational design ideas

I found lots of inspiration in some of the shapes and varieties of flowers.

Gorgeous color combinations

Lily pads floating upon the water were in full bloom with several different types of flowers.

This one didn't look real

This one looked too perfect to even be real.

Bev McConnell's passion for gardens is quite evident

Bev McConnell herself showed us around the various gardens. It was just such a pleasure to meet her and her passion for the gardens was so evident. Such a lovely lady!