The island of EDEN
CHRIS RILEY PAUSES the group beside a kōwhai tree and describes its vibrant spring flowers, now lost to the breezes of autumn.
He recalls planting it with a young visitor a decade ago, and as three piwakawaka flit into view, he emits a passable imitation and extends a branch – to my surprise, the bravest of the birds touches down for its photo opp.
Riley is at home here on Mou Waho, the largest of Lake Wanaka’s four islands
