Perched on the very top – the dainty silvereye or tauhou

Fifty eight seconds of video, captured with much delight and good fortune, of kereru feeding on plum blossom. The colours of a Tikorangi springtime.

Magnolia Black Tulip

Somewhat slowed down by a bout of flu and heavy cold this week (the last time this happened would be over a decade ago), I have spent some time photographing birds and magnolias this week. Still tui in abundance, but also kereru, waxeyes (syn. silveryeyes or tauhou) and even the elusive bellbird, all feeding at the same time from Prunus Mimosa. The tui usually chase the bellbirds away. This must surely be one of the most beautiful times of the year here. If you use Facebook, *liking* our garden page will see the magnolia updates arriving on your news feed.

The garden is now open daily. No appointment is necessary. If we are not around, there is an honesty box.

The shy bellbird or korimako