Tag 24 - Great Taste Trail (Part II)

I started early because I knew it would be a long day in the saddle.

First, I went back to Motueka on the same route, where I stocked up on plenty of water as there would be no town or shop for the next 40-60 kilometers. Paula and Bryan decided to continue on a different route. At a junction after about 40 kilometers, the routes crossed paths. We had joked before that we would definitely see each other there. And it turned out that we actually met there, or rather rode by each other. My path led me to the left towards Dovedale Hill, while the two of them wanted to continue to Glenhope and then take the bus. The road gradually climbed for kilometers, it was very well-built. And then it had to happen. When the incline became significantly steeper, the surface changed from paved roads to a gravel road. I knew it was going to be even more challenging. The last few meters of elevation felt like they dragged on. When I finally reached the top after covering 70 kilometers, I was really exhausted. Shortly afterwards, I arrived in Wakefield, where I could have gone to a campsite, but I wanted to return to the beautiful spot in Tahunanui and enjoy the magnificent sunset. There was also a lovely beer garden near the site. I wanted to have a proper meal in New Zealand for the first time there. So I gathered myself and rode the remaining 25 kilometers towards Nelson.

The food and the local beer were really excellent. Just what I needed after cycling over 100 kilometers through the hinterland of the northern coast on the South Island. Now I need to plan my further route and do some laundry tomorrow and the day after. And the weather is supposed to be great! The beach and the ocean are calling!