Dates are now only about 5 days off so getting better.

Rumours of a massive storm were circulating last night after a few pints in the bar. The last big storm took out a bridge on the coast for 10 days and as much rain is expected now. With half a dozen cyclists gather two plans emerge; light rain or no rain in the morning then ride on, or any rain means stay put. Six riders each to choose his/her own way.

Early morning rain quickly turned torrential, no one will ride in to this. As noon approaches John (from South Africa who is heading south east) and I start challenging the other to ride (I am going north west over the pass and in to the wind). Who can turn down a challenge? Not me! Jointly we cook a huge pasta meal and after a feed set off in opposite directions. Everyone else looks on as if we are absolutely mad (it a huge storm now).

As I ride I keep telling myself 18km up hill and then 62km down hill, just ride on, beyond 14k up hill there is no turning back.

The storm just keeps getting stronger and I carry on with a quick visit to the blue pools before going over the pass. The head wind gets really string but atleast it's downhill and the waterfalls unimaginable. At one brief stop I meet a kiwi couple, Bart and Gillian in there ambulance converted camper van. The pair kindle offer me a hot tea and a chance to get warm - no way I'm saying no.

Eventually it is back into the rain with water now pouring off the mountain and in some cases over half the road. All the efforts finally pay off upon reaching the hostle with the miserable manager but at least I am quickly warm and dry.

Shortly after I arrive the pass us closed due to slides and flooding - no one knows when it will reopen. I can only think that Niel will be wishing he rode with me.

Some times it pays to gamble