February 9, 2025
Over to the South Island (Rest Day)
I had a nice stay in the hotel, although it felt a bit short. I could have lingered in the luxurious bed a bit longer this morning but I wanted to catch the 8:45 ferry. I tried booking online but that was unsuccessful because my banked flagged the transaction and sent a code to my cell number that does not work on an ESIM. The ESIM is super easy and convenient but there are times where you want a phone.
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So, I started riding to the ferry by 7 to get there in time to book onto the early 8:45 ferry. I took the Interislander which is state run. The other one is private and not sure how they compare. On board it’s nice, similar to BC ferries but more ways to part you and your money (movie theatre, private seating and dining etc.).
Once in Picton I’m off the Tour Aotearoa and onto the Sounds to Sounds. After getting off the ferry I’ll top up my groceries for the ride from Queen Charlotte back to Picton. And then I’m peddling over to a trail angel’s I met right here writing.
Waiting for the ferry I met a Kiwi rider who had such a light set up. I was feeling a bit envious of his seemingly empty bike. We talked through his gear and basically he’s not set for winter, has no stove, less water capacity, and he has virtually no space for food.
By comparison I carried way too much food for the last few days. I still have stuff left and I shopped 3 days ago. Imagine all the energy I expended carrying all that stuff up every hill! Oh well, I honestly didn’t notice it although I find the front of my bike a bit squirrelly on gravel so I may try moving some weight to the panniers and see how that goes.
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The North Island riding was epic. So many great trails! So many good memories. I only made an enemy with a bird. The rest of the interactions were pure gold. It’s different here for sure but wherever you go the human experience is generally the same. We all eat. We all sleep. We all need each other. And of course New Zealand is a developed country so not that much different.
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1 week ago
I’m really looking forward to the South Island. The S2S promises to be amazing scenery and a lot of off road singletrack riding which suits me well.
I off loaded the ferry at about 12:30 and pulled straight into an information booth to ask questions about getting on a boat up to Queen Charlotte. To my surprise she booked my trip and added the park fee. So easy! From there I headed another block and found a hardware store for a proper sized butane tank, and then over for groceries and wine. I talked to my daughter on the crossing and her roommate lived in NZ. She suggested I eat some Kiwi fruit so I made good on that straight away.
Then I made my way to Robyn and Bruce’s house where I was in for a serious treat. They lived just outside of Picton in the most incredible setting. I’d call it part jungle, part beach, and all paradise.
There I set out my tent to dry so that it didn’t start to grow. I forgot the night before in the hotel and it was dripping wet from dew. Then I headed down to the beach for a rare (for me) swim in the ocean. It was surprisingly warm for the ocean.
We had a great evening talking bikes, bike trips, kids and our respective country politics and mishaps. They have inspired me to make good on my idea to ride in Europe. It sounds absolutely incredible.
Bruce made us pizza that was delicious and I made friends with their cute dog. Or maybe it was the other way around. She sort of saddles up to you and encourages a good scratch.
Now I’m off to Ship Cove to start the Sounds to Sounds (S2S) route. Bruce filled my head with details I’m sure I’ll forget but hopefully my Garmin will be my trusty friend.
Highlights:
-ferry ride was beautiful at times and also extremely windy on the Wellington side
-ocean swim
-pizza, salad, wine and a bed
-amazing hospitality with Robyn and Bruce
Distance: 8 km and a rest
Today's ride: 8 km (5 miles)
Total: 1,213 km (753 miles)
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