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Finally got around to doing a ride report on our short adventure ride whilst we were holidaying in New Zealand South Island late last year. The holiday included a mix of activities such as alpine hiking, mountain bike riding, ice climbing, drinking and eating ….. but ……with the scenery and dirt roads of the central Otago Region we just had to hire a bike for 3 days adventure riding.
We picked up a VStrom 650 from http://www.comotorcyclehire.co.nz on the banks of Lake Dunstan in Cromwell.
Within minutes we were on Thompson Gorge Road and hitting the river crossing.
This road traversed below Bendigo Gold Digging towards the pass and had 20 odd gates to open/close (Kat’s job) which was worth the effort.
The snow-capped mountains were a constant backdrop to already amazing view
The road winding its way towards the pass.
NZ humour – the gatekeeper
In wouldn’t be NZ in spring time without bouncing lambs
Some amazing dirtroads
Obviously they take these signs seriously
After some assessment of this river crossing Kat bailed to allow Mick to cross this whilst Kat found an alternative route. Kat’s pillion skills weren’t up for the challenge and closing eyes didn’t help….
The water was frigging cold
Here are some top shots
Stopped for a short break to take off some of the layers of clothing
Then off to Dansey Pass via Nasby.
We were hoping to stay at this quaint little pub just before the pass but unfortunately the chef & staff weren’t on therefore couldn’t stay at the pub.
Mick meeting the locals
[IMG]http://i960.photobucket.com/albums/ae84/KatGirl_2010/Adventure%20Riding%20NZ%20Nov%2012/P1060568_zps9cd7e80a.jpg[/IMGSo off to Dansey Pass
Off in the distance we saw a sea fog at the summit working its way over the ridge.
Coming out the other end very late in the afternoon
Decided to stay at Kurow at the Waitaki Hotel which ended up being an entertaining late night with the publican and some ‘interesting’ locals.
The guys in the pub suggested we take the Haka Gorge road to Lake Tekapo and this had also been suggested by Dave and Janeen from the motorcycle hire company
Traffic jam NZ style!!
There were benefits being a pillion rider …. Enjoying the view.
We decided to stop so we could add some layers… it was freezing. It was here that we meet the only vehicle we came across. French lady who was doing a recon for a pending BMW promotional ride for the release of the new 1200GS. It was great to hear all the dirt roads we travelled were on her itinerary.
Coming down the other side of the Haka Pass
Coming into Lake Tekapo to source some last brunch
After brunch we headed south towards Lindis Pass
Special thanks to Dave and Janeen from http://www.comotorcyclehire.co.nz for providing a great service to allow us to live our dreams…..
Great lakes and photo opportunities.
Quick run out to Lake Oahu
Then down via Lindis Pass
Kat’s DIY Go Pro style…
Heading towards Roxburgh
Stayed the night at Riders Rest…. Setup for Motorbike Riders…. Highly recommended.
Decided to ride the hills behind Roxburgh
Enjoyed a bucket of Cappuccino before heading up Hawksburn Road towards Nevis Valley.
Overlooking Clyde
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The start of Hawksburn Road
Mick had to take some detours to get around muddy sections
Following power lines is always a ticket to adventure
Coming into Cromwell and the end of our adventure.
A dirty bike is a happy Mick and me.
We had the most amazing 3 days of riding which only scratched the surface of what NZ has to offer adventure riders. If ever you get the chance to do it with your best mate you will be living the dream. We will definitely be going back for more… and more……
Kat & Mick
Wow , that is a great report and pics , amazing scenery !!
One day
Nick
Wow Kat :cheer:
Looks like you and Mick had the time of your lives
Lake Tekapo is an amazing place eh?Its the first time i ever saw snow was in the mountains behind the lake ,had a snow fight with my brothers and fell into a septic system…..but thats another story :sick:
Thanks for sharing such great pictures Kat :cheer:Bol :woohoo:
Bloody Hell Kat I wish I hadn’t seen this RR.
You’ve got me drooling all over my PC.
I think I’ver just added another destination to my ride wish list :woohoo:
Top report. Thanks for sharing.
Kram
Great RR and pictures, I think I can see a OB kiwi ride in the future!!
Wish I had half your luck guys,trip looks like it was awesome.
Thanks for sharing some great pictures
Love the colour co ordinating Mick : 😆 nice mix n match.
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