Breakfast Run Report Makoura Lodge
Makoura Lodge Breakfast Run 02/08/2009 Report by Liz & Neil.
The weather did not start out too kindly for us (raining), but this did not stop a great turnout of 20 MG’s with 38 members. We left on the dot of 8.30am on a “follow the leader” run to Makoura Lodge at Apiti. The line of cars certainly looked very impressive going up Kimbolton Road, but unfortunately not that many up and about to see.
We had a good run passing through Cheltenham and Kimbolton, turning off to Apiti, just north of Kimbolton. The scenery was still outstanding even on such a bleak day. Arriving at Apiti, we turned off onto Makoura Road and even though there was gravel for 6 kms, it was quite smooth and plenty of corners for those who wanted to do a slide or two (not that anyone did, I think).
Arriving at Makoura Lodge, we were greeted with a huge open fireplace holding a roaring fire. When it was time to chow down, low and behold the sun decided to make its presence felt in the dining area, which helped to give a great atmosphere. The clouds lifted too, giving us a tiny peak of the snow covered ranges.
Breakfast was duly served and there was plenty of it! Well done Makoura Lodge. Everyone appeared to be pleased with the offering going by the full plates of Bacon, Fried Eggs, Hash browns, Sausages, Scrambled Eggs, and Tomatoes! There was also a great selection from the continental buffet as well. So something for everyone.
John and Viv Eames then offered to take those that were interested, on a tiki tour to Mangaweka, via Rangiwahia, with a stop at the Mangaweka International Airport for more refreshments, if so desired. At approximately 11.00 am 9 cars and 17 members headed away, after being farewelled by the staff at Makoura Lodge.
Tar seal led into more gravel and then tar seal again, with the papa hill side sliding away in some places, making for an interesting drive. We duly arrived at Mangaweka and made a bee line for more sustenance in the way of coffees, toasted sammies, muffins, etc. A guided tour followed, led by Viv, who was proud to show us what Mangaweka had to offer.
A further invitation was then offered to view the progress of their new home, commanding magnificent views over the valley and beyond. This was taken up by 9 members, who were duly entertained by “Filla” the sheep and “Val” the sheep dog! You guys missed out on a truly unique experience! For those that were not able to make it up the hill on foot, farm transport was provided by way of a four wheeler and trailer, which was proving another country thrill, slip, sliding over the paddocks!
Another brew was had by all, while we all admired the view and gave our opinion (the ladies that is) of how the new kitchen should look. More entertainment followed, with a demonstration by “Val”, the sheep, dog rounding up the sheep, which nearly had them ending up in the dam! Now that wasn’t her fault, she was only following instructions from the boss!
Anyway, thanks go to John and Viv for capping off the day to yet another great Club run.
Hi people….Just to say that Sandy and I REALLY enjoyed our trip on Sunday to Mangaweka and the Eames’s. Great breakfast, great cruise, great company,great cars, what more is there to say! Unfortunately, we’re going to miss the Tui brewery trip, but we’ll catch up with everybody when we get back….Cheers…Trev and Sandy.
We thoroughly enjoyed the run to Makoura Lodge and the great breakfast. Also really appreciate the kind words about the Mangaweka run and visit to our farm. It was great fun.
Also Liz and Neil, I offered Val an apology for my vague instructions, and for wasting her possuming time on rounding up sheep we didn’t need, and it was graciously accepted. She’s good like that.