Lake Ohau Lodge to Otematata via Omarama

Apologies to all the lovely blippers who have commented over the last couple of days. I will reply as soon as I can. Time has been in short supply!

Today was the most challenging day of cycling, both mentally and physically, that we have ever experienced. Firstly we had to cycle up the side of a mountain to 900 metres above sea level, then around and, eventually, down the mountain. The track was narrow and very stony and required concentration. When we were almost down my right pedal had an argument with a hidden rock and off I came, bashing my left shoulder and leg in the process.

This afternoon was even more challenging from roughly the halfway point. We were on an even narrower track cut into the rock face above Lake Benmore. Even greater concentration was required to ensure we didn’t go too close to the edge and risk falling. It was quite a relief when we made it down to ground level and onto a proper cycle track.

Despite the challenges it was an amazing day. The sky was blue, the mountains glistened in the sunshine, the water was a wonderful shade of blue and the silence and peace were calming. We also met some lovely people along the way, which is always a bonus.

The blip shows a selection of photos from today. The extra shows signs we came across during the ride.

There are 28 new community cases today. They are in Auckland (9), Waikato (3), Bay of Plenty (5), Rotorua (2), and Canterbury (4)