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The Grove
| Turning right at the
Clifton crossroads will bring you to this enchanting place. "The
Grove" is characterised by massive rata trees growing out of
curiously-shaped limestone outcrops. In early summer the rata is a blaze
of red but at any time of the year the short (10 minute) walk from the
carpark to the viewpoint is well worth the effort. Just before the lookout
the track is confined to a narrow slot between two massive, vertical
limestone cliffs.
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| Hidden away in this
area are several other interesting places to visit: Arts & Crafts,
orchards, local produce and finally by following the signs up the road,
the Begonia House, perched on a commanding site with views over the lower
valley and sea. Once inside the building, one's overwhelming impression is
that of tropical exuberance, from the row after row of brilliant blooms in
many shades and sizes. Originally from the jungles of South America, the
begonia is now thoroughly at home in New Zealand.
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