Day 65 Christchuch

Couldn't let our BBH accom which we had previously booked at the beginning of the week so we decided to stay another night. Left for the Weka Pass early and back to visit Brian and Julia before we leave for the North Island. Probably have a look around the markets today.

Day 66 Christchurch to Waikari

Overcast this morning and got steadily worse as the day pregressed, scenery a little lacking on this part of the journey (probably because we have seen it before), by the time we hit the Weka Pass (and it seemed a lot easier this time round) it was pouring down. Received a great welcome at the Cyclists Retreat with tea and pickelets (small pancakes) awaiting us. Rest of the evening spent talking about our trip.

Day 67 Cyclists Retreat

Brian took us across the hills to O'Sullivans Lookout. We spent most of the time looking at his heels whilst he romped up the steep track. We had lunch under a cliff hangover decorated with rock art, where the Maori families camped whilst travelling from one destination to the next. Headed home about 5.30 pm to one of Julia's lovely meals (Julia plates might be a good idea for the future!!!)

Day 68 Cyclists Retreat

Julia and Brian arranged a walk along the coast (Motuneuh) amongst the rock pools and then a picnic lunch. Spent evening once again around the log fire, drinking wine and chatting.

Day 69 Cyclists Retreat

Julia was off early to attend a fashion day with friends so we were left to our own devices, and survive we did! Brian had our chores all arranged, feed the chickens, sheep and then off with wheelbarrows to stack the wood into the winter store shed, he and friends had taken down a couple of trees with chainsaws a few weeks before so it was completely dry enough to put away for the winter. Just time enough to have lunch and entertain Julia's Mum or was that the other way round? Next poor Ziggy, the 16 year old cat who was past his sell-by-date paid his last visit to the Vet accompanied by Brian, Keith and myself. We then held a small ceremony attended by the locals, namely us three, in the back garden. Prior arrangements prevented Julia from attending. Next Brian thought that we needed a couple of hours walk to reflect on the day. Two thirds around he started to sag but I threatened him not to fall asleep at the dinner table, after all it was his idea.

Day 70 Cyclists Retreat - Wellington

Up at 6.45 am this morning to catch the Waikari train to Picton, dropped off by car by B+J at Wakari International Train Station, that might be an overstatement. Thank you both we had a 'beaut' stay and we will keep in touch. Train journey was great we had already done this part of the trip by bike some weeks ago but the train gave us a completely different perspective of the countryside. Crossing from Picton to Wellington, North Island was about a 3 hour journey, very sunny with little wind. So many people have told us that the South Island is the best and that the roads and especially drivers are not to good to cyclists on the north island, so we don't intend to use the state highways but to go across the Island using th smaller roads. Apparently the hills are a lot steeper in the North. We leave the South Island with approx 2,800k covered.

Day 71 - Wellington

Had a good hotel last night and this morning went to arranged a shuttle to Straford to undertake the Forgotten World Highway. What a drama, it's Easter and everything has shut down for 4 days. We have arranged a bus for Sunday morning so will be staying at the Hotel for a couple more nights. Thanks to everyone for your Easter wishes, we also send our Best Wishes to you all and special wishes to Oliver, Reiss, Ella, Keith & Lissa. Dad, Lee & Houng. Spencer & Lynda. . . Have a Good One!!!!!