Summer is the perfect time for an excursion up the Puketitiri road. The beautiful rolling hills through Rissington gradually climb until by the time you reach Patoka the views across to the Kaweka Ranges are breathtaking. We’re taking this road all the way to Ball’s Clearing, which is a bush reserve with stands of native trees preserved from the felling that took place to develop the surrounding farmland. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch here and explore some of the short walks available. A stop for an ice cream at the Puketapu Store is a great way to conclude a wonderful day in Hawke’s Bay hill country.