Day 17 - Ruatiti - Bridge to nowhere

The path was really scenic.

From Ohakune, I initially drove about 10 kilometers on a quiet highway, which I also took yesterday on the way back from the 'Old Coach Road'. Then the road turned left and the terrain changed. I quickly noticed that I was now driving through almost uninhabited area. The road was actually no longer a road, more like a gravel track. Fortunately, it was now downhill for about 15 kilometers before it became hilly again. The path meandered past a stream. When I reached the source of the small river, there were some ramps uphill. After another 20 kilometers, I reached my destination of the day: 'Ruatiti - Backpacker and Campsite.' This is a really rustic but very beautiful place near a farm. You camp between horses, sheep, and cows. It creates a real farm feeling. Unfortunately, I had problems with my bicycle today, the gears/chain are making strange noises when I pedal. I hope it will survive the nearly 90 kilometers from Pipiriki to Whanganui the day after tomorrow and there is nothing more serious.

Tomorrow morning at half past seven, I will meet the owner of the mountain bike shop in Ohakune, who will bring me a mountain bike, pick up my bicycle and bags, and take them to Pipiriki and drop them off at the campsite. I hope everything works out that way.

The tour will then take me from the campsite to a boat dock, with lots of ups and downs, 6 swing bridges, and the famous 'Bridge to nowhere'. I'm really looking forward to it!