The leg from Arrowtown found Mickies Mrs, Kimmie on the back of my bike, and perhaps more than she bargained with the tight turns, sheer drop offs and quick overtaking over the Crown Range to Wanaka. My style is more aggressive than she is used to, but to her credit she played her role to perfect, and did not complain.
Our accomodation in Wanaka was right in the middle of town, obviously an old place, and perhaps one of the early stalwarts of the township, set on a very large site that modern land prices would absolutely preclude, and a lovely setting for us to enjoy an end of day catch up. I became the victim of physics, catapulted backwards and downwards into shrubbery from a bbq table as Craig moved- funny for nearly everyone. Except your humble scribe, particularly as I lay upside down like a cast ewe, nearly able to move. We were collectively pumped after the arrival of WAGs, and what really is recognised as the turning point in our journey. That being the case, several of the lads pushed the boat out a fair way, perhaps forgetting that there would inevitably be a high price to pay by way of hangovers the morning after. Dinner at an Italian restaurant kindly booked by Lisa after a recommendation from a local resident, and one that proved sound - too many expensive bottles of wine and unfinished pizzas later, saw most drift off, although our youngest member needed to be prompted to go to bed. Breakfast on the main drag, bacon and eggs for most (normally a staple for me), but instead toasted muesli and plenty of local stone fruit - magnificent. A 10am departure was still to early for some, but we were soon on our bay, bound for Jacks Point (after a photo opportunity atop the Crown Range, and a slight detour due to poor navigation). First stop was at the “Bra Fence”, a real sight to behold, and another salient reminder that some tourists in rental cars are a real menace. Regardless of where you find yourself, It is easy to see why so many love this region, hot in the summer, cold in the winter, and beautiful all the time. Cromwell for lunch, at least for some of us, with a few determined to punch through tho Clyde - regardless of the choice, everyone seemed happy at post ride drinks, then later at dinner. As I write, replete and slightly intoxicated after a fabulous meal and perhaps too much Pinot Noir, it really is Easy to see why The Cardrona Hotel is one of our favourites. Tomorrow the journey homeward begins in earnest, at least for those hardy enough to take on the challenge, although the two Mikes have opted to join the ladies, with Biketranz doing the honours. 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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