Biking outside of Marahau were two routes we could take. On our way into Marahau we took the in-land route per some non-cyclists (regretted that one). They apparently felt it wasn't nearly as steep as the coastal route. Completely different experience driving up a hill in a car vs. riding a bike. On our way out we took the coastal route to Kaiteriteri. The hills were perfect and so were the views. We knew it was going to be a great day...we were right.
We back tracked and arrived in Motueka and headed south on the Motueka Valley Highway. Locals said this was a beautiful drive and not hilly. The road followed along a crisp river with lush orchards full of kiwi fruit, grapes, and apples. Small fruit stands dotted teh road along with cafes, B&B's, art studios, and stunning terrain. The whole time the wind was pushing us along and the road slanted downhill towards our destination as if to say, "Go!" We stopped for lunch and had the best mead & veggie tart (pizza) and cheesecake made by "Pappy" from his humble home cafe. The afternoon was an easy stroll of 45 miles. We passed by Tapawera and continued onto Motupiko due to lack of camping and landed in front of a pub with a "free camping" sign. How perfect. For one night of "free camping" we got 2 orders of "fush & chups" and 2 pitchers of beer. Enjoyed the company of Dorine Clement, a solo cyclist from Belgium whose website you should check out (www.strawberrysky.be)...especially if you can read/speak Flemish. Great meeting you Dorine...we'll see you in Belgium in 2009!
Another superb day. We wish all of you were here to throw down a few. We miss you all. Cheers!
3 comments:
You said you went all the way to Motupiko because of a 'lack of camping'. You must have gone right past the campground at Tapawera - one of the best in New Zealand. Why didnt you stop there? It is a warm traditional and friendly campground with an amazing kitchen. You would have loved it. Regards, Colin and Tina.
If you're ever back on our blog...we'd love to know where the cool campsite was in Tapawera? We were stumped...and possibly too tried to explore. For the next time maybe...we even asked and no one knew what we were talking about.
Hopefully we'll be back in New Zealand to stay at this campsite you're talking about in Tapawera :)
Cheers!
Marijo & Paul
I cycled that same road, and there's a great big sign right after you pass Tapawera (coming from the north), that literally says it's the world's best campsite. There's also a big sign later on to tell you to turn around because you missed the world's best campsite ; )
I personally carried on that day because I knew of a campsite in Motupiko and fancied cycling some more. Quinney's bush in Motupiko was very quiet and lovely - I'd recommend it if you ever do this again! ; )
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