The blue lake isn't named for this shot, where the low afternoon light makes the snow look blue, but the colour of the water which is affected by the minerals in the surrounding hills. Nowadays it tends to be a bit green though, due to runoff and algal growth. I just had time for a couple of quick snaps and a quick chat at the pub about getting hot lunches for my clients, so like everything on this recce, these shots only hint at what can be done here.
With about 40 minutes before the sun hit the hills, I turned back on the road toward Ranfurly. The late afternoon light and snow combined with the clear sky for great landscape opportunities. The challenge is finding some engaging foreground.
The Wedderburn railway shed is another Grahame Sydney painting icon. It was only restored in the last few years, after being removed, but the painting's popularity and the growing tourist numbers attracted by the rail trail encouraged the locals to rebuild it. It sits at the intersection of some long straight roads that typify the region - and also make it a favourite haunt of motorcycle enthusiasts.
The last of the sun's rays made for a quick silhouette of some cattle, and a shot of the hills above Ranfurly painted pink. Again, this was a wind-down-the-window -and-snap picture, so it's a bit soft and grainy but it shows the potential of the place.
Two hours drive in the dark via Palmerston and I was home. Initial Maniototo winter reconnaissance complete and much intel gained.
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