New Zealand sheep

We took a bus ride from Christchurch into the mountainous country side to visit a sheep farm.  I don't have much success with pictures taken out of bus windows so no scenery shots here. The drive took about two hours and all the way I kept thinking "This reminds me of Scotland." 

 When we got to the farm we were seated on the back patio/porch area and treated to tea, scones and other treats.  The picture above is a shot of part of the embroidered table cloth.  I thought it was beautiful.

 While there we had a demonstation of sheep dogs herding the sheep. This doesn't show the action but it does show the secnery.

 I asked the farmer what the heritage of the area was, knowing that the majority of settlers in NZ and Australia were from the British Isles. His prompt, proud answer was "Scottish". One of the local heroes was a man named McKensie (sp?) who was basically a sheep rustler who got the whole industry going in  the area.

 Their house was charming, tucked in among the trees with lots of flowers. While at the farm we were told that the farmer and his wife were planning to retire soon and their son would be taking over the farm.  On the way back to the city we passed this beautiful lake (below) and were informed that the farm couple we had just visited were building their retirement home at this lake. Very nice. I guess raising wool and mutton pays off.