Lauder School B&B

06/02/2024

Astronomy and astrotourism course coming to Central Otago in April
An astronomy and astrotourism course for the public is coming to Alexandra in
April. The dates will be the afternoon of Friday April 12th to 5 pm on Sunday April
14th.
The course is being offered by the Aotearoa Astrotourism Academy (AAA), a
non-profit organization founded in 2021 by Professor John Hearnshaw, Emeritus
Professor of Astronomy at Canterbury University, and Nalayini Davies, who is
President of the Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand.
The AAA website at https://aaanz.org gives more details and accepts on-line
registrations.
AAA gives immersive courses over 2½ days for anyone who wants to be inspired
by the beauty of the night sky and wants to learn more about the stars and how
to observe them using binoculars or a small telescope.
Professor John Hearnshaw said that the course will offer an intensive programme
of talks and practical workshops, including night-time observing, and will have
five instructors from New Zealand’s most knowledgeable astronomy and
astrotourism experts. Practical advice on astrophotography and on Maori
astronomy and Matariki will be part of the AAA course. The course is for anyone
wanting to learn how to appreciate the beauty of the night sky and learn more
about the stars. No previous astronomy knowledge was required.
Local astronomy expert, Professor Brian Boyle, will be among the instructors for
this event, along with Victoria Campbell, Gareth Davies, Dr Steve Chadwick and
Alan Gilmore.
The main course venue will be Centennial Court, Alexandra. AAA will also take
the opportunity to take course participants to one of our excellent, nearby dark
sky locations for night-sky observing sessions, in the hope of clear weather for
star-gazing.
AAA is very grateful to Winterstellar Charitable Trust for sponsoring this event
in Central Otago.
More details and on-line registrations are at https://aaanz.org; enquiries to
[email protected].
John Hearnshaw
Emeritus Professor of Astronomy, University of Canterbury

04/10/2023

Great advice. Thanks Sidetracks Women

🌊🚴‍♀️🥾 Exploring El Niño: What it Means for Cyclists and Hikers

El Niño is back, and it's bringing its unique weather patterns to New Zealand. What does this mean for cyclists and hikers? 🌧️🌄

Today our tips how cyclists can stay safe and prepare for the challenges and opportunities that El Niño may bring:

Check your gear:
Make sure your bike is well-maintained, with good tires and brakes for slippery roads.
Dress appropriately:
Invest in waterproof and windproof clothing to stay dry and comfortable.
Stay informed:
Keep an eye on weather updates and adjust your ride plans accordingly.

How to prepare for strong winds:
Lower your profile:
If the wind is gusty, try bending your elbows and tucking in to reduce your body's exposure.
Grip the handlebars firmly:
Keep both hands on the handlebars and maintain a secure grip, especially when you encounter strong crosswinds.
Adjust your position:
Lean into the wind slightly, but be cautious not to overdo it. Make small adjustments as needed to maintain your balance.
Be aware of gusts:
Be ready for sudden gusts of wind, which can catch you off guard. Maintain a steady pace and avoid sudden maneuvers.
Consider your route:
If you know there are areas with particularly strong winds, plan your route to minimize exposure to these conditions. Seek shelter if necessary.
Stay visible:
Windy conditions can reduce visibility for drivers. Make sure you're visible with bright clothing and lights, especially if you're cycling on the road.

Remember, strong winds can be a challenge, but they can also make your ride more exhilarating!
With the right preparation and a dash of caution, you can conquer the elements and make your cycling adventure even more unforgettable. 🌬️🚴‍♂️

18/05/2023

Such an interesting project...

The reburial of eleven individuals at the Drybread Cemetery will take place this Saturday (20 May) at 1pm. These were people who were in unmarked graves that were investigated during an archaeological research project at Drybread. It is a public ceremony, and will include both Anglican and Chinese services. All welcome.

14/05/2023

We are now closed until September but taking bookings for next season.

Thanks to everyone who came to stay, who helped us make the cycling season work and who wrote us such great reviews.

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13/05/2023

Ko te whaea te takere o te waka.
Mothers are like the hull of a canoe, they are the heart of a family.
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11/05/2023

Leaf raking begun .... vege garden weeded, compost layered on and covered by a quilt of leaves. Should keep the worms and soil safe whatever winter brings our way. Now on to the rest of the gardens and more leaf raking..... fantastic autumn gold.
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10/05/2023

A little rowan seedling in its autumn clothes.... sadly in the wrong place so will need to be transplanted elsewhere
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09/05/2023

Autumn beauty as a carpet across the lawn.... and suddenly it is leaf raking time!
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06/05/2023

Rail Tales:
Lauder Railway Station en route to its new site beside the rail trail

05/05/2023

Rail Tales:
The early history of the Lauder Railway Station

04/05/2023

Rail Tales story board 1 about the re-siting and restoration of the Lauder Railway Station in 2016

03/05/2023

Rail Tales story about Lauder Railway School which is now the Lauder School B&B... find more stories like this in the Lauder Railway Station, an important part of the Otago Central Rail Trail Trust's Rail Tales project.
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