We wandered down to the township from our motel yesterday afternoon and it is very apparent that the “rebuild” of Kaikoura is very much a work in progress.
It appears that most (but not all) of the buildings in the retail stretch of the “main drag” suffered earthquake damage, and those that didn’t soon closed as a consequence of the disaster. Those few that either remained open, or have opened subsequently, initially operated on grit and determination, and are now seeing the benefits. Both pub restaurants were full, and quite surprisingly had security guards on duty - go figure. Between us we had a couple of great steaks, and two lovely Blue Cod meals so well pleased, then back to the motel to enjoy the bottle of Pinot Noir that Chris’s significant other (Pam) had arranged to be left in his room on his birthday a few nights hence - what a woman! Our 7:30 departure was timed to allow a brief stop at a local bakery for coffee and a croissant (for Chris), then back on the road, with a ferry to catch. Only one cop this morning, a blue mufti car, again untroubled by 4 law abiding bikers (yeah, right), so up the rest of the Kaikoura Coast, more smells of salt and seaweed, more rugged coastline, and the ever present evidence of extensive remedial earthworks and road repairs in progress. We blasted into the dryness of Marlborough, burnt brown grass as is typical for this time of year, and not too much traffic on the road. Into Picton and down to the ferry - Craig, determined to get his coffee fix sorted left his bike amongst a sea of others, safe in the knowledge that he’d have plenty of time. Alas, not to be, and shortly afterwards his bike was alone, “that guy”.... As always, once bikes were secured it was up to the “secret” lounge to rest and relax, having first succumbed to the coffee, ham and cheese croissants, scones, etc - a delightful refuge, no kids and no dickheads. Off the ferry and up the motorway along with dozens of other bikes, the bro’s heading for Gisborne & Wairoa, others to New Plymouth and beyond, and most of our group to Palmerston North - other than Jeff who’d decided to blast on through. We’ve enjoyed a few post ride drinks in a spot of shade in the car park of the delightful Arena Motel (recommended), and shortly we’ll be heading to Haru Japanese Restaurant, rated seconded in Palmy by Trip Advisor, so we have high expectations. 6am tomorrow, we’ll be homeward bound. Don Malcolm +64 21 924 114 Comments are closed.
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Don MalcolmA perfect day involves being on my Harley with a long ride ahead.
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