First of all I would like to thank Bluebridge Ferries for assisting us and our vehicle and bikes across the Cook Strait. Also to Delia and Phil for looking after Steve, Ange and Tod in Picton feeding us and giving us a place to relax for the day, the BBQ was excellent.
Today was the first day in the North island and it was always in the back of our minds how we were going to get out of Wellington in peak hour traffic. Luckily we had the assistance of a colleague Neal Holden who took a day off work and rode with us showing us the safest and best route out of town. This took us over the Paekakariki Hill which as Neal promised provided us with magnificent views over Kapiti Coast. At the lookout despite the many signs warning us of the wet paint on the concrete plinth, one of us who shall rename nameless lent his yellow and black Pinarello Prince on the foresaid plinth.
It was a quick trip down the other side to Tod's classic "four chairs" photo and to coffee and a scone.
Neil managed to keep us off SH1 for over 70 ks, his local knowlegde was invaluable. We would never have mapped that route. He came with us for over the 70 ks until we returned to SH1. Neil's help was above and beyond the call of duty, we owe a beer or three mate.
The rest of the way was on the main road which had heavy traffic and a hard surface. The side shoulder was very narrow leaving us little room to ride.
No one lane bridges today but we did ride through a small tunnel. The road kill total was 8 with a mixture of birds and possums.
Today started with a quick phone call to my youngest son Nathan who was having his 8th brthday. Thanks to Sarah for giving me the time to commit to this. Thanks for making it a special day for Nathan with the assitance of Sam, Nick and Patty, miss you all.
Today was the first ride with only four riders. The time on the front come around quickly without Al, Chillie and Brian. We have retired the King Richard award as the trophy was left on the table at a coffee shop and now maybe taken around the South Island by a backpacker.
Many thanks to all those who have donated to the fund. We are watching it slowly rise and every amount is appreciated.
It was a quiet home cooked dinner in the unit tonight then it will be off to Wanganui tomorrow morning
Cheers for now
Shane.
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