The only tree rhat seems to fit your description -- masses of pink and white flowers mixed with large pale green leaves -- is Magnolia x soulangeana.

Only discrepancy is, its peak flowering is August-September and this month only the last flowers persist. Earliest flowers are on leafless branches, the new leaves expand with later flowers. Very popular in Sydney gardens.

Thank you Tony. I now know, however, that the trees in question are Bauhinias not Magnolias. They are simply gorgeous this year, perhaps the dry conditions have caused extra flowering - they are splendid!