The summer solstice 2017

After I woke early this morning, I remembered that the summer solstice was to be at 0525. Sunrise was predicted to be at 0559. Despite the cloudy sky, I decided to try and get a photo of the sunrise. Unsuccessful, as the clouds ensured that no sign of the sun was visible until almost midday. This afternoon I set off for the Meola Reef, known also by the Maori name of Te Tokoroa. As I walked past the fenced regeneration area, I spotted some tiny birds flitting in and around the long flower spikes of the flax plants. With the lens at 300mm, and using manual focus, I was able to get this photo of two Tauhou (Silvereyes) investigating the old flax flowers.

I have also included two extras. From the deck this evening, to compensate for the absence of a sunrise, I took a photo of the sunset. The thrush on a post was during my walk at Te Tokoroa.