September 25-27th - Auckland - Owhango/42nd/Fishers [Archive]

.chris

11th August 2009, 12:33

I am planning to head down to join MarkS' organised ride of the 42nd/Fishers tracks (http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=486909).

Planning to leave Auckland City early (read 9amish) on the friday and take the very not main road down, even covering a chunk of the Kawhia/Raglan ride (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=104932&page=4)
Something like this google maps link (http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=Auckland+city&daddr=Highway+22+to:Te+Hutewai+Rd+to:Calvert+Rd+to :Whaanga+Rd+to:Kawhia+Rd+to:Hauturu+Rd+to:Waipuna+ Rd+to:Owen+Rd+to:Ohura+Mokau+Rd+to:Ohura+Mokau+Rd+ to:Okahukura+Saddle+Rd+to:Ararimu+East+Rd+to:Hikum utu+Rd+to:owhango&hl=en&geocode=%3BFci2xP0dCgBuCg%3BFbZzvv0dw8prCg%3BFUDbv v0dukNrCg%3BFeByvv0dnMtqCg%3BFez5vP0dGNpsCg%3BFdZA uf0dHD9tCg%3BFTIFt_0dgENuCg%3BFW27s_0dYh5vCg%3BFRQ osv0dN-FvCg%3BFVq2sP0dmKJvCg%3BFQtVsP0dn2dxCg%3BFSC9r_0dG oBwCg%3BFeuQrf0dFZdyCg%3B&mra=mr&mrcr=0&via=1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13&sll=-38.178291,175.089798&sspn=0.150595,0.308647&ie=UTF8&ll=-37.981551,174.992294&spn=0.302001,0.617294&z=11)
Will be slow paced, plenty of rest stops to check out the views.
Will most probably get lost a few times.
Plenty of options to bail out to short-cuts/main roads if things are taking longer than expected.

Plan to stay at the pub at Owhango on friday night.
Joining the group Saturday 9am at National Park for the Fishers/42nd traverse tracks.

I then plan to see how I feel with heading back up, might stay somewhere local, even maybe the Owhango hotel again, or make my way back up to visit relatives near Hamilton. Or even back to up to Auckland.

Anyone keen to join me?

Crisis management

11th August 2009, 20:16

Ummm, maybe, I'm still trying to work out how much time I have available for this ride, I may just do the long day on saturday at this stage. I'll keep you in mind.

.chris

11th August 2009, 20:50

Ummm, maybe, I'm still trying to work out how much time I have available for this ride, I may just do the long day on saturday at this stage. I'll keep you in mind.

Casual as, no problems if you just turn up on the day.

johannvr

11th August 2009, 21:14

Looks like I may have to bail out of the Naki ride. Would be keen to join you on the ride down on the Fri, may do Saturday Fisher's & 42nd, or may retrace Friday's steps back northwards on Sat ...

Will confirm soon.

dino3310

12th August 2009, 19:59

keen as matey but will have to work on some leave with the whanau, will let you know closer to the trip

.chris

13th August 2009, 09:05

keen as matey but will have to work on some leave with the whanau, will let you know closer to the trip

Will be great to have you along dino, and you too johannvr.

I have never been down this particular route, so I am not even sure what most of the roads are going to be like, from what I can tell on google earth a fair portion of it will be gravel based, but for me it is just as much about avoiding the main roads as any gravel based off-roading.

I think the route is about 420km, so given it could be a pretty slow going my plan is to leave pretty early from auckland (about 9amish), maybe meet at the autobahn at about 9:30/9:45. That way we have plenty of time to enjoy the view's have a decent lunch somewhere and get to Owhango before dark.

Crisis management

13th August 2009, 09:25

Bass

13th August 2009, 10:20

I can't make Mike and Phil's ride the following weekend, so it looks like I'm in for this one.
Having done most of it before, I have to say that Crisis is right about the both the quality of the route and the time it will take.

Last time on the 42, I fell off twice (one off in a shallow ford) and stalled it in another ford. I have to do better than that. Plan to bring the 13 T front sprocket along this time and slip it on Friday night. That's gotta help. Please.

.chris

13th August 2009, 10:29

Chris, if you use as much gravel as possible ie. towards port waikato, raglan, kawhia, piopio, ohura, otunui, hikimutu and to Owhango it will need a decent bit of time, I figure 50km/hr on gravel so that 8 -9 hours riding time plus stops.
I would plan on leaving the Autobahn at 8.00am to get the most out of the day.
Always plan to have spare time, it always takes longer than you think and some of those roads are very tight & slow.

Brilliant ride tho!

Thanks for the advise.

Problem is with 8am, I have to fight my way through rush hour traffic, at least at about 9am it will be a bit lighter.

Was going to skip around the Port Waikato gravel roads, and just rip down SH22 (since I have done the Port Waikato roads a few times,and will be doing again on the 30th with gravel bash v2).

Yeah I agree, that it will take a fair while to get down, hence me admitting that a bail out (to main roads) at some stage further south is quite likely.

johannvr

13th August 2009, 14:15

I'm good with either time, etc., so will watch this thread for final calls.

Juts gotta remember now to call & book accomm for the Fri nite - you reckon Owhango pub's gonna be the place to be ...

johannvr

13th August 2009, 14:17

Bass

13th August 2009, 14:56

I don't even have a 14t front - better scout around & see if I can unearth one, as I suspect that the 15's going to slap me on the wrist ... or such ... :bash:

I wouldn't worry too much. Me falling off etc has more to do with a basic lack of skill, than the size of the front sprocket. I'm just trying to stack the odds in my favour.

Taz

13th August 2009, 15:15

google maps link Driving directions to Owhango
451 km – about 17 hours 43 mins

17 hours and 43 minutes to do 451km!! Damn thats slow.....

.chris

13th August 2009, 15:36

17 hours and 43 minutes to do 451km!! Damn thats slow.....

Yeah I told google maps I was riding a Jog 50cc scooter :scooter:

Devil

13th August 2009, 15:55

I could be up for this. Never even seen the 42 before, any probs at that time of year with the errr "larger" adventure bikes? :whistle: (Read: GS Adventure on knobs with a retard on board)

johannvr

13th August 2009, 17:11

I wouldn't worry too much. Me falling off etc has more to do with a basic lack of skill, than the size of the front sprocket. I'm just trying to stack the odds in my favour.

Kinda need as much help as I can get too - came unstuck last year on the TTTTT ride in a slippery patch & I've been blaming it ever since on the 15t & not being able to ride slow enough & control the bike proper-like ... excuse now been used for too long, so I suspect I'd better change & come up with something new. Will of course never admit that a "very slight" :whistle: lack of fitness & riding skills may have contributed

Crisis management

13th August 2009, 18:11

I could be up for this. Never even seen the 42 before, any probs at that time of year with the errr "larger" adventure bikes? :whistle: (Read: GS Adventure on knobs with a retard on board)

No, no, no ,no, you'll be fine, trust me.

Where is that camera??

Taz

13th August 2009, 18:41

Devil

13th August 2009, 18:47

Hah, yeah yeah yeah comedians, dont forget, you guys would be helping me pick it up! You should go easy on us fuel tankers, we might be saving your arse some time...

... if you need any plowing or trench digging done...

Taz

18th August 2009, 11:40

chris (with dots) I'll be on this ride but will be trailering the 525 to owhango. So i'll see you there friday afternoon/night.
Andy.

Eddieb

18th August 2009, 12:01

I could be up for this. Never even seen the 42 before, any probs at that time of year with the errr "larger" adventure bikes? :whistle: (Read: GS Adventure on knobs with a retard on board)

The bike will be fine, several 1100's, 1150's, 1150 GSA's & 1200's have been through there before, plus quite a few 100PD's.

I can't speak for the retard however.

junkmanjoe

18th August 2009, 12:51

even the safari slut made it through ok...:shit:

Devil

18th August 2009, 13:50

Eddieb

18th August 2009, 14:46

95% of it is very hard packed dirt. If it's wet some of it might be slippery.

Dr Ed's recommendation is to take 2 HTFU pills and find out on the day. It's worth the ride.

.chris

18th August 2009, 15:09

Consider me apprehensive! Me 1200GSA is a lardy tart (*said quietly so she doesn't hear me*). Whats the track like? Is it a gravel road, or is it actually slippery shit?
Should I just wait for summer to be safe before doing it?

I am going to be doing it on my 690 with the sahara 3 tires, so if it is wet we might just be fcked together.

Anthrax, cool will see you there.
I think wrf2500 is doing the trailer down there thing also.

Devil

18th August 2009, 15:18

Except your fscked is 145kg, mine is 245kg ;) Although If I keep the gas low maybe 225kg.
TKC80 front and Mitas E09 rear...

.chris

18th August 2009, 15:31

Except your fscked is 145kg, mine is 245kg ;) Although If I keep the gas low maybe 225kg.
TKC80 front and Mitas E09 rear...

Yeah, but at least you will not be alone :shit:

Taz

18th August 2009, 15:35

Devil - Except your fscked is 145kg, mine is 245kg

c.h.r.i.s - Yeah, but at least you will not be alone

And we'll all be able to point and laugh from the top of the hill. After taking lots of photo's we'll help you drag that beemer to the top :lol:

You definitely will get thru one way or the other. If not we'll call a helicopter....

Devil

18th August 2009, 15:40

And we'll all be able to point and laugh from the top of the hill. After taking lots of photo's we'll help you drag that beemer to the top :lol:

You definitely will get thru one way or the other. If not we'll call a helicopter....

Bastards. Haha. Have I mentioned i'm only 5'9"? On a GSA? Perhaps I should have asked if the ride was suitable for someone on tiptoes...

Eddieb

18th August 2009, 16:11

Except your fscked is 145kg, mine is 245kg ;) Although If I keep the gas low maybe 225kg.
TKC80 front and Mitas E09 rear...

I've done it on my fully fueled 100GS PD, which with 35 litres on board wouldn't be far shy of that. I was running E-09 rear and 3/4 worn TKC front.

With decent tyres like those it shouldn't be an issue.

That looks like fun

18th August 2009, 16:36

Mate................... 42nd traverse, beemer 1200GSA, these words shouldnt even be said in the same sentence :shutup: I took me 1100hundy through there on the Waikato trip with a new TKC on the back and only had to be pushed once :shifty: But the picking up off its side was a different story :stupid:
I am a road rider who has come to the dark side just recently so I dont rate my off road skills as being awesome (not far below that but definatly not quite awesome). A skilled rider will do the 42nd on a big beemer at this time of year. An unskilled rider will do it but the bike will need some repairs afterwards if you get my drift :blink:

Devil

18th August 2009, 17:39

Anyone want to lend me a DRZ400 or something? hehe

junkmanjoe

18th August 2009, 18:02

barts got one for sale...ask for a test ride then give it back....

Crisis management

19th August 2009, 08:10

Anyone want to lend me a DRZ400 or something? hehe

Stop being a girl and ignore these bastids, you'll be fine...:blink:

Seriously, I'm taking the fat pig too and I don't envisage any problems as long as it isn't tipping down (rivers get a bit high), having said that, I expect to have a quiet lie down at some stage and I also expect these other sods to help pick me up. I am sure they will extend the same courtesy to you.

It'll be fun, we certainly wouldn't be doing it if we were worried about making arses of ourselves in public now would we???

Bass

19th August 2009, 08:19

Stop being a girl and ignore these bastids, you'll be fine...:blink:

Seriously, I'm taking the fat pig too and I don't envisage any problems as long as it isn't tipping down (rivers get a bit high), having said that, I expect to have a quiet lie down at some stage and I also expect these other sods to help pick me up. I am sure they will extend the same courtesy to you.

It'll be fun, we certainly wouldn't be doing it if we were worried about making arses of ourselves in public now would we???

I'm with him.
It's the whole point of a group ride surely?

Devil

19th August 2009, 08:43

Not afraid of making an arse of myself! But... (oh i'm going to get torched for this one) she's so pretty and scratch free... :shit:

Bass

19th August 2009, 10:24

Not afraid of making an arse of myself! But... (oh i'm going to get torched for this one) she's so pretty and scratch free... :shit:

OK.... Understood.
Getting serious for a moment.
IMHO in the 42nd on a big pig, there are 2 sets of circumstances that may put you down.

The first is the fords that are a bit lumpy and can be a bit intimidating if the water is deep. However, the only person I know who has put it down in one of the fords is me and that was only cos it was only 100 mm deep and I got cocky and hit it fast - the front wheel found a big one and leapt sideways.

The second is the slippery greasy shit of which there will be plenty at this time of year. However it's pretty much all dirt and so while it may make your bike messy, it shouldn't carve it up appreciably.

The last (and only) time through there I helped a guy pick up his pig after he lost it in a deep slippery rut and as far as I could tell, it hadn't marked his bike at all.

Still, it will be a bit of a challenge which is exactly why I plan to attend. When it comes to riding skills, if I take a long hard look in the mirror, I rate myself as somewhere in the top half of the novice range and I want to improve on that. I expect to get wet and muddy on the way through, but I expect to get through pretty much intact. I think you can too.

Crisis management

19th August 2009, 10:49

[/SIZE] she's so pretty and scratch free... :shit:

I can understand your concern, we all felt like that at one time with our bikes and as long as you park a discrete distance away from us, no one will comment. However, be assured that it doesn't take long to improve that embarassing condition and by the time you're an hour into the 42nd you'll be grinning your head off and able to look with pride at your adventure bike as it sports the start of an impressive display of scars. :love:

Isn't it wonderfull to be surrounded by such a bunch of caring individuals?

Devil

19th August 2009, 11:44

Hehe. Understood. Yeah it's been dumped in the mud before with no issues! Actually my worst nightmare would be dropping it in a ford. I'm pretty inexperienced as far as adventure riding goes, but getting better and better.

Bass

19th August 2009, 12:21

Hehe. Understood.

So you're coming then.............(or is that just the way you walk?)

tri boy

19th August 2009, 12:38

Just :corn: this thread at the moment.
Havn't ridden the old Wanganui Rd from 43 to Hikumutu before, so this interests me.
That gravel road section through Hauturu/etc, and including the two saddles into 43 will suck time, but quite doable.
42 n Fishers for me would be weather dependant, (unless my cunning plan falls into place:shifty:)
Either way I'll watch this thread.:done:

Devil

19th August 2009, 12:40

So you're coming then.............(or is that just the way you walk?)

Quite possibly assuming everything works out at home and i have enough tyre left by that time!

.chris

19th August 2009, 13:47

Quite possibly assuming everything works out at home and i have enough tyre left by that time!

I am going to try and wear my tires out as much as possible prior to this ride so maybe I can justify buying some more before it, can't quite yet, but getting close on the rear.

Some one said on the tire thread, they only got 3000km out of their sahara 3's, I am at about 6500km, and they are still going strong, might have to rark it up a bit more often.

Devil

19th August 2009, 15:02

Just booked my accomodation at the Owhango Hotel (hopefully there's room!)
So I guess i'm coming!

Taz

19th August 2009, 18:15

Some one said on the tire thread, they only got 3000km out of their sahara 3's, I am at about 6500km, and they are still going strong, might have to rark it up a bit more often.

I only got 1500kms out of my last rear tyre...... No Idea why as the front is still fine :lol:

That looks like fun

19th August 2009, 18:59

Just booked my accomodation at the Owhango Hotel (hopefully there's room!)
So I guess i'm coming!

I like a man with big testiclay :jerry: Good luck you will enjoy it. You show me your scratches and I will show ya mine :done:

.chris

19th August 2009, 22:12

I have booked for both friday and saturday night at the Owhango hotel, so the plan is to stay both nights there, and back up to north/auckland on the sunday.

For the friday trip down so far we have
Myself (690e)
johannvr (dr650)
Devil (1200gs)
dino (DR750) because you name is on this list dino, you HAVE to come, no excuses

johannvr

20th August 2009, 08:09

Devil

20th August 2009, 08:48

Sounds like the hotel may be running short on accommodation (yea, I know - you snooze, you lose ... :nono: - my bad) Waiting for them to get back to me on the situation. If no go on that, does anyone know of suitable alternative? If I can get accommodation sorted somewhere where a tent is not required, I'm in for the Fri trip down, Saturday is still up in the air a bit.

I have been booked in Room2 (2 bunks) by myself, name is Matt, dont mind if you share as long as you dont stink or snore! Just call them and quote my name and room 2. They should be ok.
I hear chris has a romantic ensuite room. You could try him...

junkmanjoe

20th August 2009, 08:58

Sounds like the hotel may be running short on accommodation (yea, I know - you snooze, you lose ... :nono: - my bad) Waiting for them to get back to me on the situation. If no go on that, does anyone know of suitable alternative? If I can get accommodation sorted somewhere where a tent is not required, I'm in for the Fri trip down, Saturday is still up in the air a bit.

hi i booked a cabin iat http://www.taumarunuiholidaypark.co.nz/

there tidy and warm, great hot gas showers,
its a much better option than a tent.

eddieb and my self are planing to camp here on sat night.

JMJ

Crisis management

20th August 2009, 10:38

Alternative accomodation is either Taumaranui or National park (ski lodges), I haven't organised anything either at this stage but there is bound to be a few places to kip in.....

MXNUT

20th August 2009, 11:01

hi i booked a cabin in http://www.taumarunuiholidaypark.co.nz/
eddieb and my self are planing to camp here on sat night. JMJ

Hey Guys, i have also booked there for the Saturday night and there is 1 spare bed in my cabin if anyone else wants it :love:

junkmanjoe

20th August 2009, 11:49

yip same cabin as last time, no 1 , just got a positive reply from NICKi, the owner, and shes more than happy for us to stay again.

i also have a spare bed in my cabin also.

MXNUT

20th August 2009, 12:10

Right, i thought it might be a good idea to find out exactly who is coming and
where everyone is staying so i have posted the ride up on the calendar HERE (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&e=2104&day=2009-9-26) so we can indicate our attendance .:stupid:

Not trying to Hijack anyones thread Mark or Chris.:love::sunny::sunny:

Eddieb

20th August 2009, 12:24

Have put myself down.

Are you going to manage a list of who, or numbers of who's staying where? It sounds like there are 2 distinct accomodation locations at the moment that are ~50km apart.

Of course all the cool people are staying at Taumaranui :Punk:

johannvr

20th August 2009, 15:50

Sounds like the hotel may be running short on accommodation (yea, I know - you snooze, you lose ... :nono: - my bad) Waiting for them to get back to me on the situation. If no go on that, does anyone know of suitable alternative? If I can get accommodation sorted somewhere where a tent is not required, I'm in for the Fri trip down, Saturday is still up in the air a bit.

Thanks Devil et al. Have just heard back from Willie & all's sweet - there's space left on the Friday eve & I have made booking. Same goes here - if there's a bunk spare / open - not worried to share. Will update mark's calendar thingy ...

marks

20th August 2009, 16:12

yip same cabin as last time, no 1 , just got a positive reply from NICKi, the owner, and shes more than happy for us to stay again.

i also have a spare bed in my cabin also.

Are you guys staying there on Friday night as well?

There was some 4wd track you talked about a while ago from the 4wd book you got me - below Taihape - would you/Eddie whoever be interested in having a look on the way up on Friday? - I'm easy but I intend to make a full day of it on Friday.

Right, i thought it might be a good idea to find out exactly who is coming and
where everyone is staying so i have posted the ride up on the calendar HERE (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&e=2104&day=2009-9-26) so we can indicate our attendance .:stupid:

Not trying to Hijack anyones thread Mark or Chris.:love::sunny::sunny:

Thanks Mark - I've enrolled :yes: - I hadn't expected enough people to be interested to bother with a calendar thingy....

cheers

Mark

tri boy

20th August 2009, 16:52

Havn't ridden the old Wanganui Rd from 43 to Hikumutu before, so this interests me.

Just a wee heads up on this possible route c.h.r.i.s.
There indeed is a bridge that crosses over the upper Whanganui from hwy43.
It becomes Paparora Rd, (mainly sealed), which has a gravel road,(Te Maire Valley Rd) off it about 1km from the bridge. This road doesn't appear to join up with Whanganui Valley Rd.
My road info source is off 07 Land Info Map 1:50 000 scale.
So you might have to use the Hikumutu-Owhango gravel road. (still an excellent bit of metal)
If I get a chance I'll do a sorte, or contact the Tauramanui roading dept.

junkmanjoe

20th August 2009, 17:01

Are you guys staying there on Friday night as well?

There was some 4wd track you talked about a while ago from the 4wd book you got me - below Taihape - would you/Eddie whoever be interested in having a look on the way up on Friday?

cheers

Mark

hi mark, subject to me landing this job. im going to ride up early sat morn.
and meet up at the start point. and return home sunday arfo..

Taz

20th August 2009, 17:44

I'm just about to go to work (night shift :( ) so will look at accomodation tomorrow for friday and sat nights. Is there good safe parking for car and trailer at the Taumarunui cabins place?
Andy.

marks

20th August 2009, 17:56

I'm just about to go to work (night shift :( ) so will look at accomodation tomorrow for friday and sat nights. Is there good safe parking for car and trailer at the Taumarunui cabins place?
Andy.

yup - well set back from main road. Slightly out of town so no locals wandering around

I'd still be chaining my bike to trailer and locking trailer to car though

MXNUT

20th August 2009, 17:58

Is there good safe parking for car and trailer at the Taumarunui cabins place?
Andy.

Yep, a couple of us trailer fagotts have left vehicles there before and Nicki at the camp ground is happy to keep an eye on them for us.:love:

junkmanjoe

20th August 2009, 18:57

isnit she a doll......

Taz

21st August 2009, 07:55

I'd better contact them about a room then........

Andy.

junkmanjoe

21st August 2009, 08:35

yea mate just say your with the kiwibiker group

Taz

21st August 2009, 18:34

Booked. C U's there.

tri boy

22nd August 2009, 17:35

Just a wee heads up on this possible route c.h.r.i.s.
There indeed is a bridge that crosses over the upper Whanganui from hwy43.
It becomes Paparora Rd, (mainly sealed), which has a gravel road,(Te Maire Valley Rd) off it about 1km from the bridge. This road doesn't appear to join up with Whanganui Valley Rd.
My road info source is off 07 Land Info Map 1:50 000 scale.
So you might have to use the Hikumutu-Owhango gravel road. (still an excellent bit of metal)
If I get a chance I'll do a sorte, or contact the Tauramanui roading dept.

Confirmed today that Te Maire Valley rd doesn't link up with the route on google maps. Sorry.
But I have found a few more possible play areas for this summer:Punk:
The scorpians prevented me from getting too serious, but spring/summer should have the area dried out. (bloody clay)
Doubt that I will do all the areas you guys have planned, and I won't book accom until the very last minute as things are double booking on me.
Here are some pic's from today.

.chris

22nd August 2009, 21:48

Confirmed today that Te Maire Valley rd doesn't link up with the route on google maps. Sorry.
But I have found a few more possible play areas for this summer:Punk:
The scorpians prevented me from getting too serious, but spring/summer should have the area dried out. (bloody clay)
Doubt that I will do all the areas you guys have planned, and I won't book accom until the very last minute as things are double booking on me.
Here are some pic's from today.

Thanks for the recon mission. Will map out a new route when I get a few spare minutes.

.chris

23rd August 2009, 20:03

junkmanjoe

23rd August 2009, 20:06

we have a better party up there,,, we did last time....whaa hoo..:headbang:

dino3310

23rd August 2009, 22:15

we have a better party up there,,, we did last time....whaa hoo..:headbang:

nothing like having a hangover for the 42nd to make it more challanging:lol:

junkmanjoe

23rd August 2009, 23:17

you will know as you will be there mate..i got our same cabin mate NO 1..........

bring beers......

.chris

23rd August 2009, 23:19

nothing like having a hangover for the 42nd to make it more challanging:lol:

The party will be post 42nd drinks. which might be the best order to do these things in.

Are you coming dino?

junkmanjoe

23rd August 2009, 23:21

yes he is, cauzzz i said so.......DR.:headbang:...DR..:headbang:...

Taz

24th August 2009, 09:51

yes he is, cauzzz i said so.......DR.:headbang:...DR..:headbang:...

DR :oi-grr:DR:oi-grr:........:crazy:

:lol:

johannvr

24th August 2009, 11:18

I am thinking I might change my accommodation plans for saturday night, and move on up to Taumarunui and stay with the rest of the group.

Devil, Johanvr are you guys keen to do the same?
Stick with staying at the Owhango hotel for friday night tho.

Hey c.h.r.i.s.

At this stage I am only going down for the Friday trip, and returning north on the Saturday morning when ya all head off on the proper ride :(, as I have a Sunday thing that I haven't managed to get out of yet (without owing SWMBO a truckload of "you owe me's"!) Having said that, I AM working on it, and if plans come together nicely I will add my booking to the Taumarunui spot for Sat night ...

Good with the Owhango pub for Friday still.

dino3310

24th August 2009, 14:56

trying to get there, problem is the holidays fall on the same weekend, trying to sort something out with the ex and whanau

.chris

24th August 2009, 19:34

change of plan is in place, looks like myself and Devil will be joining you guys at the Taumarunui camp grounds for the saturday night.

But we were wondering (collectively) if one of the guys doing the trailer thing would be so kind as to let us dump our gear in your car and pick it up back in Taumarunui that evening, save us having to drag it through the tracks for the day?

junkmanjoe

24th August 2009, 20:15

im sure nicky would let you guys leave your gear at the office as your staying there sat night anyhow..

JMJ

dino3310

24th August 2009, 21:28

yeah mate just leave your stuff at the camp there good trust worthy hosts

bart

24th August 2009, 21:37

:corn::corn::corn::corn::apint:

I'd better go get a map and see where you guys are going. Might tag along if you can handle waiting for a slow one.:scooter:

Eddieb

24th August 2009, 21:39

Have you not done 42nd and Fishers Bart? I thought you had.

You're missing out if not.

Taz

24th August 2009, 21:41

I'm only trailering the bike to the camp and riding it from there on as it's registered. You are welcome to leave your gear in my car or cabin but I assume you want to give it to someone who may be trailering thier bikes to the tracks themselves otherwise you'd have to backtrack to Taumarunui Saturday morning. Is that right?

bart

24th August 2009, 21:52

Have you not done 42nd and Fishers Bart? I thought you had.

You're missing out if not.

Part of the reason for buying the 650 was to travel further afield. So....I guess I've got no excuse now. :crazy:

42nd, here we come.

Pampera

24th August 2009, 21:58

:corn::corn::corn::corn::apint:

I'd better go get a map and see where you guys are going. Might tag along if you can handle waiting for a slow one.:scooter:

I thought you didn't want to do rides with too many people - this one is looking dangerously popular!

I guess this is why you almost made it up CNUT, you wanted some quiet solo contemplation up there!

Michael

bart

24th August 2009, 22:22

I thought you didn't want to do rides with too many people - this one is looking dangerously popular!

I guess this is why you almost made it up CNUT, you wanted some quiet solo contemplation up there!

Michael

I might have to make an exception. If I stuck to my own rules, I'd have no fun (or mates). :crybaby:

junkmanjoe

24th August 2009, 23:26

im happy to push you again.....and again..ohh a bit more...how much further..:sweatdrop

Dakar

25th August 2009, 12:05

Right, im in for this one, looks like a laugh, Joe, Eddie mentioned a spare bed, is that still going? (im not sharing a sleeping bag though!!)

junkmanjoe

25th August 2009, 17:01

yup you have to buy us dinner as you last in the cabin....pm me for details.

sorry ladies our cabins full......:woohoo:

Eddieb

25th August 2009, 17:26

Right, im in for this one, looks like a laugh, Joe, Eddie mentioned a spare bed, is that still going? (im not sharing a sleeping bag though!!)

Cool, when are you going up? At this stage me & Joe are going far too early Sat morning so the room is only sat night.

.chris

25th August 2009, 17:44

Myself and Devil are booked in at the camp grounds for saturday night now.

Sounds like numbers are swelling.
Hope the weather is good or I am going to need some better tires.

marks

25th August 2009, 18:05

Cool, when are you going up? At this stage me & Joe are going far too early Sat morning so the room is only sat night.

You and Joe should join the real men who will take Friday off and do some exploring on the way up

none of this namby pamby 'leave Welly at 5am on Saturday' stuff

If anyone is interested in joining me I'm going to leave Paraparaumu at 8.30ish on the Friday morning and take a convoluted route to Taumaranui for Ftiday night.

Might have a look at Kaweka Rd and Ridge Rd South on the way up .. or maybe this...

http://oscar.smugmug.com/photos/607642750_Nc39J-L.jpg

Eddieb

25th August 2009, 18:29

That road is in the 4x4 book. It's been on the 'when I'm next going past' list for a while.

Also there's a canal up that way that has a loop, follow the canal access road down and loop round a track back to the main road.

junkmanjoe

25th August 2009, 18:40

mark im planing on haveing a job very soon..so days off will be a thing of the past, i have a interview next week...:woohoo:

Devil

25th August 2009, 19:30

Hope the weather is good or I am going to need some better tires.
Yeah if it's shit i'll be sodding off up the road to Tokaanu for the hotpools! :D

bart

25th August 2009, 21:46

I might tag along with you Mark. I'll see what happens a bit closer to the time. Got a few days off work oweing, but doesn't always work out.

Oscar

6th September 2009, 08:15

Turned up Friday night, stayed in the 10 Man Hut (cold as charity - prolly got to -5 over night), completed the track yesterday AM. River crossings were tricky, but if yer careful you'll be OK (never underestimated water pressure pushing on a big bike).

I rode up the rock face on the 950, standing up, feet on the pegs - maybe the best bit of trials riding I've ever done (and STretch filmed it!).

Devil

7th September 2009, 10:11

Ooo I might be spending the saturday at Manfeild instead!

Devil

7th September 2009, 10:12

I rode up the rock face on the 950, standing up, feet on the pegs

Only on the pegs? Back in MY day it was feet on the seat or nuffin!

bart

9th September 2009, 21:20

I'm out I'm out I'm out I'm out I'm out I'm out I'm out

bugger

junkmanjoe

9th September 2009, 23:12

:Oi:.......pussy,pussy,pussy,pussy................ ..........:nono:.......:spanking:

Bass

15th September 2009, 10:18

I'm in.
Pair of D606's going on this weekend. Would have gone more aggressive but I refuse to go ghey and join the trailer trash to get there.
Friday and Saturday nights booked at Taumarunui. Looked at Owhango for Friday but figured both nights at T'nui means I can leave non essentials there Saturday and know that I have some dry clothing. The way I ride (fall off), I'll need it.

Right, where's the Friday assembly area for Orkers and what time?

Crisis management

15th September 2009, 10:37

Right, where's the Friday assembly area for Orkers and what time?

How much time you got?

I'm still a bit iffy about actually making the ride so any arrangemant at this stage will be a bit "flexible".....just looking for your intent.
I was thinking of gravel the whole way down, dependant on time.

Bass

15th September 2009, 12:18

I am planning to head down to join MarkS' organised ride of the 42nd/Fishers tracks[/URL].

Anyone keen to join me?

How much time you got?

I'm still a bit iffy about actually making the ride so any arrangemant at this stage will be a bit "flexible".....just looking for your intent.
I was thinking of gravel the whole way down, dependant on time.

I had planned to tag onto whatever c.h.r.i.s. put together.
I have taken Friday as leave and so have all day available and a full day on the gravel appeals.
However, as I recall, c.h.r.i.s. was planning a fairly leisurely pace with plenty of sightseeing stops and so using a fair bit of seal in the early stages.
Personally, I am happy to up the ante and go all gravel.
I will have a brand new pair of 606's to settle in after all.

.chris

15th September 2009, 15:17

I had planned to tag onto whatever c.h.r.i.s. put together.
I have taken Friday as leave and so have all day available and a full day on the gravel appeals.
However, as I recall, c.h.r.i.s. was planning a fairly leisurely pace with plenty of sightseeing stops and so using a fair bit of seal in the early stages.
Personally, I am happy to up the ante and go all gravel.
I will have a brand new pair of 606's to settle in after all.

I had been planning a bit of a casual trip down, not really an organised ride of any sort.
If you guys want to organise it (being I am a new rider, and do not know the area that well, I may not be the best guide/organiser) and plan a route I would probably be keen to tag along with that.
By the looks of it I may be starting from outside Hamilton on the friday, making it only a 300-400km trip down to Owhango, thinking something like this (http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=Horotiu+Rd&daddr=Kawhia+Rd+to:Hauturu+Rd+to:Waipuna+Rd+to:Owe n+Rd+to:Ohura+Mokau+Rd+to:Ohura+Mokau+Rd+to:Okahuk ura+Saddle+Rd+to:Hikumutu+Rd+to:owhango&geocode=FfqDwP0dyP1wCg%3BFez5vP0dGNpsCg%3BFdZAuf0d HD9tCg%3BFTIFt_0dgENuCg%3BFW27s_0dYh5vCg%3BFRQosv0 dN-FvCg%3BFVq2sP0dmKJvCg%3BFQtVsP0dn2dxCg%3BFeuQrf0dF ZdyCg%3B&hl=en&mra=mr&mrcr=0&via=1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8&sll=-37.492294,175.333557&sspn=1.66927,3.433228&ie=UTF8&ll=-38.143198,176.171265&spn=3.309102,6.866455&z=8).

I am sure Devil and johannvr will be happy to join onto whatever route ends up happening.

Devil

15th September 2009, 16:08

Yeah i'll go with whoever wants to organise it. I too am unfamiliar with the gravel roads down that way.

johannvr

15th September 2009, 20:58

Crisis management

16th September 2009, 07:21

Chris, that route you have posted looks great and probably a route i would take anyway so why not stick with that, see how time goes and decide whether to lengthen / shorten it as the day progress'.
I will confirm my attendance after this weekend.

Bass

16th September 2009, 08:24

Chris' route looks fine to me too.
I suggest we use it as far as Pio Pio and see what the clock says when we get there. There are all sorts of possibilities bewteen Pio Pio and Taumarunui and so we can extend / contract our intended route to suit.

Devil

16th September 2009, 08:35

Hopefully my new ohlins rear shock will turn up in time!

Waihou Thumper

16th September 2009, 08:53

I know you are planning a great ride down from the big smoke...
Unfortunately I am working that weekend and I have seen your little route planning as well.
I was wondering if you are or have been tempted to cross over SHWY 1 and ride down through Cambridge back roads, Whakamaru, Pureora Village, Waimiha, Ongarue, Back road to Taumarunui....there is a fair bit of metal, the roads are awesome, even the tar seal ones are thin and twisty...
I have the Friday off so I could arrange a ride...perhaps....Happy to be a guide for the day, will even bring the cane and Labrador...;)
You guys must be getting a little tired of the same route south maybe by now? :zzzz:

Anyway, it was a thought that's all and if you want some really good roads, no traffic etc, just sheep, goats and the bush...cross over the road and head down to Taumarunui via PioPio, Waitawhenua Rd-Ohura and Roto Rd as an alternative....

They have to be really great metal roads and long.....really long!:2thumbsup

junkmanjoe

16th September 2009, 20:59

will have new tires fitted this weekend...so nice high roost from me...:dodge:

Taz

16th September 2009, 21:41

will have new tires fitted this weekend...so nice high roost from me...:dodge:

You're not on here as often as ya used to be..... Found a better site? ;)

johannvr

17th September 2009, 08:03

maybe a bit like my predicament - works gets in the way of life far too often ??:crybaby:

Eddieb

17th September 2009, 08:45

Yep, JunkManJoe has just started his new job and is doing 11 hour days, plus travelling time.

junkmanjoe

17th September 2009, 18:57

You're not on here as often as ya used to be..... Found a better site? ;)

yea sorry guys...a little tied up now days...
on the rimutakas road realinement project.. 4yr job.

a pic of my new office..had a few spare mins to grab a pic..
dont worry ill be there for the ride...
its going to be a early start on sat morn..

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/picture.php?albumid=2225&pictureid=31125

JMJ

branahanrahan

17th September 2009, 19:36

I'm also relatively easy on arrangements, and have also taken the Friday off on leave. Have ridden some of the roads down there, but don't know them too well. Have mapbook (can make multiple colour copies of relevant map pages & laminate if anyone wants a copy - let me know & also have GPS, willing to leave Aucks early & spend the whole day (casual sightseeing / more gravel / whatever) to get down to Owhango Pub by nighttime for a feed & a hot shower, so yea - I'm in for whatever pans out. As it is I will be doing it all in reverse on teh Saturday morning seeing as I can't stick around for the 42/Fishers ride :(:(:(:(

Suggestion:

We all meet at the normal spot (BP Autobahn Papakura) early-ish (7:00 / 7:30 / 8:00 / 8:30 latest ???), compare notes & scram? May be able to co-ord it to catch up with Chris near Hamilton somewhere if he leaves from there.

We can maybe each come up with some suggestions on a doable route in the interim & see which suggestion wins the democratic vote?

been looking forward to this ride for long time and finally got everything green lit; partner placated, kids stowed, accom sorted, friday off work, tyres chainsawed back to life etc etc..

and i'm keen to join auckland crew for the ride down too, not too fussed about route, but it all looks good to me, but might have to peel off earlier to get to nat park as i'm staying there.. also, can i put my hand up for one of your maps please johannvr? it was the promise of lamination that swung it.. nice one.

Dakar

17th September 2009, 20:19

yea sorry guys...a little tied up now days...
on the rimutakas road realinement project.. 4yr job.

JMJ

You haven't sprayed KTM over the Hitachi sign yet?? i must PM you about a 990 ive heard about, or is that to much temptation!! heard its going cheap

johannvr

17th September 2009, 20:57

been looking forward to this ride for long time and finally got everything green lit; partner placated, kids stowed, accom sorted, friday off work, tyres chainsawed back to life etc etc.. .

glad I'm not the only one who has to go thru that drill

and i'm keen to join auckland crew for the ride down too, not too fussed about route, but it all looks good to me, but might have to peel off earlier to get to nat park as i'm staying there.. also, can i put my hand up for one of your maps please johannvr? it was the promise of lamination that swung it.. nice one.

No probs - will make one for you :2thumbsup

Taz

17th September 2009, 21:50

JMJ's office has bars on the windows.........:lol:

That looks like fun

18th September 2009, 03:52

Taz

18th September 2009, 08:13

Only 7 days to go...... You all ready?? I will get the KTM configured today.

Devil

18th September 2009, 08:33

Hopefully my shock turns up in time, but i'm not holding my breath. Will chuck my knobs on next thursday and i'll be ready to go! Woohoo!

So... auckland people... are we going to decide on a meeting point and time?

Taz

18th September 2009, 08:34

I'll meet you at Taumarunui.

.chris

18th September 2009, 09:51

Only 7 days to go...... You all ready?? I will get the KTM configured today.

Just got a fresh TKC80 on the rear, going out for a good offroad scrub in this weekend. Ready as I will ever be.

.chris

18th September 2009, 11:17

[QUOTE=c.h.r.i.s;1129348781]I am planning to head down to join MarkS' organised ride of the 42nd/Fishers tracks (http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=486909).

Far be it for me to burst your bubble of fun :buggerd: But..... just had a look at your proposed route to Owhango. Might pay to do a bit of a check on the Wanganui Valley Rd. :( :lol:
Cheers :beer:

It was just a drag a few waypoints on google maps type route to that point. Further investigation into the viability of the route will be checked out on-route :dodge:

Personally I think I may take a slightly less gravel based than most route down, I do not want to over-do the trip down and be knackered for the fishers/42nd, maybe something like this (http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=Auckland+city&daddr=Highway+22+to:Kawhia+Rd+to:Hauturu+Rd+to:Wai puna+Rd+to:Owen+Rd+to:owhango&geocode=%3BFci2xP0dCgBuCg%3BFez5vP0dGNpsCg%3BFdZAu f0dHD9tCg%3BFTIFt_0dgENuCg%3BFW27s_0dYh5vCg%3B&hl=en&mra=mr&mrcr=0&via=1,2,3,4,5&sll=-37.90845,174.885864&sspn=0.461038,0.604935&ie=UTF8&ll=-38.32442,175.086365&spn=0.916839,1.209869&t=h&z=10).

Bass

18th September 2009, 13:08

OK, it's like this.
Chris is a bit nervous about being thrust in as a ride leader for the run down and has asked me to lend a hand.
I think he would do just fine but that's not the point, eh?
What is more to the point is that he is looking for a more of a cruise than I am and so one with more stops and seal than I would choose.
Therefore, I will be at the Papakura Autobarn (Southern m'way) at about 8.00 am on Friday Sept 25th and will be on the road South at about 8.15.
I will take a route that is about 50:50 seal to gravel which heads initially out toward the coast and pretty directly towards Pio Pio from there. At Pio Pio I will look at my watch and then consult the map. The area of the map that I consult, will depend on what my watch says.
I will happily explain to anyone I meet along the way which route I intend to take and if they choose to follow the same route, then cool! I would even be prepared to stop at intersections to point out the way I intend to go. The rest is up to them. I would even be interested in their suggestions for a better route for me to follow.
Obviously, the tenor of this post owes something to the recent thread on group rides.

Also, the good lady wife and I are heading off tomorrow morning on the Triumph to spend a long weekend at Ahipara and so I don't expect to be on-line from then until Tuesday next.
So just talk amongst yourselves until I get back, OK?
Any questions?

junkmanjoe

18th September 2009, 15:08

wahoo home early..right off to the shed and get some new shoes on me safari slut...:2thumbsup

oh yea bars on my office is to keep me at work, put me in side and lock the door. :(

dino3310

18th September 2009, 17:21

C.H.R.I.S good on ya mate:2thumbsup
BASS good on ya mate:2thumbsup.
i wont sign on cause i dont know if i can make it yet, but i hope to catch up with you guys

That looks like fun

18th September 2009, 17:26

[QUOTE=c.h.r.i.s;1129412158][QUOTE=That looks like fun;1129411770]

It was just a drag a few waypoints on google maps type route to that point. Further investigation into the viability of the route will be checked out on-route :dodge:

I think you will find that a section of the Wanganui (or is that Whaganui?) Valley Rd is not actually in existance :oi-grr:

branahanrahan

18th September 2009, 18:30

cheers in advance for the map Johannvr, that's cool..

and i'd like to echo dino's multiple thumbs up to bass & chris.. good on you guys for sorting out a route.. i'd like to tag along for a good part or the trip down, but i'm thinking i'll piss off to the main roads waitomo-ish as i'd like to get to national park for 5/6ish: i'm keen for a decent feed, rest and restorative beers in the evening!

i read the guide to group rides and it's hard not to agree with them, it's pretty much common sense. but i wonder if adventure rides like this require splinter groups of 3 or 4 people? not having done the research, i imagine the chances of chaos (not to mention dithering) would increase with tens of riders on the gravel roads etc.. also, there's less pressure on 'group leaders', it's a heavy mantle to wear.. we could perhaps stagger leaving times or group according to destination, preferred route, engine capacity or ability etc? or is this just over-complicating everything?

either way, it's gonna be a good weekend, i've gotta make the most of this rare and hardwon weekend pass, so excuse the overthink.. just keen to get on with it!

Bass

18th September 2009, 18:38

cheers in advance for the map Johannvr, that's cool..

i'd like to tag along for a good part or the trip down, but i'm thinking i'll piss off to the main roads waitomo-ish as i'd like to get to national park for 5/6ish: i'm keen for a decent feed, rest and restorative beers in the evening!

I plan to be at Pio Pio early enough so that you could make that call there if you like or even a bit further on maybe.

Bass

18th September 2009, 18:39

I think you will find that a section of the Wanganui (or is that Whaganui?) Valley Rd is not actually in existance :oi-grr:

Thanks for the heads-up

MIXONE

18th September 2009, 18:40

. we could perhaps stagger leaving times or group according to destination, preferred route, engine capacity or ability etc?

I'll lead the slow group.
From the back...

Taz

20th September 2009, 14:09

5 sleeps to go......

.chris

20th September 2009, 17:04

Bass

21st September 2009, 18:39

Looks like I shall be starting this ride just outside of Hamilton instead of Auckland as orignally planned.

I plan to meet up with the group around Ralgan somewhere. I figure at the corner where Ohautira Road meets SH23 is as good a spot as any.
Assuming of course that will be part of the decided route?

Not sure of what route you guys plan to do from the Autobahn but I can assume it will be at least an hour or so from the planned departure time (9:15am) before you guys arrive, so I shall plan to be waiting there from about 10:30am onwards.

BASS, thanks heaps for taking the helm, I am sure the group will appreciate having someone experienced taking the lead.

Right. Just a small point or two.
I just checked and I did post 0815 as the start time. Having said that, I am still not sure how long it will take us to get to Ralgan (actually, I haven't a clue where Ralgan is so we'll assume the obvious typo eh?) but if we can find reception and you PM me your cell number, I would be happy to call in with a progress report.
While on this particular topic, are there any more from the Hamilton area planning to join us?
I actually suspect that your original time of 10:30 won't be too far out, but I would suggest that 10:15 would buy you some margin.

Lastly, just to set the record straight, the only thing I am experienced at is falling off - an expert even!

johannvr

21st September 2009, 19:11

Hi guys

I have run into big problems on the Whangarei Council project that has been the bane of my life for almost a year, and much to my own dismay will have to pull out of this ride as my ass will (still) be in Northland on Friday, on client time, trying to get things sorted and back on track for a proposed Go-Live on the new system for them ...

I am NOT f&^&&(ng happy. But I guess that's how it happens. I promised some laminated maps - and still prepared to do those and if possible somehow get them to the guys who wanted them, like Branahanrahan, before Friday. Any suggestions? Devil - are you going? Being in Glenfield you're the closest to me that I know of & can maybe drop them off? c.h.r.i.s. - you're the next closest that I know of, so also doable ...

FCUK - sorry guys. I don't get to ride much, so I was looking forward to this.

Johann

Crisis management

21st September 2009, 19:22

I'm in......failing the end of the world or work turning nasty, so I'll see you at Papakura at 8-ish Bass.

Just an oil change to do now. :wari::wari:

johannvr

21st September 2009, 19:41

those happy-looking dancing bananas are reeeeeaaaaallly making me feel leperous after my bit of shared information ...

But good on ya - see ya next time around.

tri boy

21st September 2009, 19:50

.chris

21st September 2009, 20:45

I am NOT f&^&&(ng happy. But I guess that's how it happens. I promised some laminated maps - and still prepared to do those and if possible somehow get them to the guys who wanted them, like Branahanrahan, before Friday. Any suggestions? Devil - are you going? Being in Glenfield you're the closest to me that I know of & can maybe drop them off? c.h.r.i.s. - you're the next closest that I know of, so also doable ...

Oh man, that sucks you can't make it, next ride eh!
I could easily duck up and grab these maps (would have to be wed evening), would also love one for me too :)

Bass, sorry yeah 8:15 leaving the Autobahn.
I shall be at that cross road by at least 10:00 am to be sure I catch you guys.

johannvr

21st September 2009, 20:57

Oh man, that sucks you can't make it, next ride eh!
I could easily duck up and grab these maps (would have to be wed evening), would also love one for me too :)

Hey Chris

Yep - Gonna have to try & do another one soon - as it is I had to bail out some time ago already from the MAPMEA ride that I was keen on, now this one too ... gotta hate work and client "requirements" sometimes!

But yea - I can do the maps on Wednesday & have them ready - if you can't pick them up I will make a concerted effort to get them to you then ...

Will PM you my mobile no just now.

Johann

Taz

22nd September 2009, 07:44

gotta hate work and client "requirements" sometimes!

Just learn to say no! It's easy really.

johannvr

22nd September 2009, 07:50

Just learn to say no! It's easy really.

Yea - except that my whining boss in Brisbane has the whip in hand on this one - sensitive council client, what with the upcoming Super city nonsense we need to treat them all nice & smoochy, so they say jump, I ask how high ... and these bloody system cutovers always have to happen towards weekend to minimise downtime. Fark.

But I did consider using some contagious plague as a sicky reason ... :cold:

branahanrahan

22nd September 2009, 08:39

Hi guys

I have run into big problems on the Whangarei Council project that has been the bane of my life for almost a year, and much to my own dismay will have to pull out of this ride as my ass will (still) be in Northland on Friday, on client time, trying to get things sorted and back on track for a proposed Go-Live on the new system for them ...
Johann

argh! what a pain in the old harris for you johannvr mate! sorry to hear that those cursed work demands have impinged upon your weekend so, the bar-stewards.. typical council, making life difficult for everyone.

and thanks for the maps offer, although don't sweat it too much if it's a big hassle.. i might be able to get the chief accountant to OK the purchase of a book..

tsk.. next time, eh? and if you're looking for some sort of scant consolation, i guess since you'll be oop norf, at least you'll be well away from the big fashion yawn in the city.

nice one mate

.chris

22nd September 2009, 12:26

argh! what a pain in the old harris for you johannvr mate! sorry to hear that those cursed work demands have impinged upon your weekend so, the bar-stewards.. typical council, making life difficult for everyone.

and thanks for the maps offer, although don't sweat it too much if it's a big hassle.. i might be able to get the chief accountant to OK the purchase of a book..

tsk.. next time, eh? and if you're looking for some sort of scant consolation, i guess since you'll be oop norf, at least you'll be well away from the big fashion yawn in the city.

nice one mate

Johann, seems like there is no need for the maps, so might as well not bother.
Save me a trip up to Silverdale ;)

Weather is not looking too flash at the moment, might be wet trip down. :cold:

Crisis management

22nd September 2009, 13:28

Weather is not looking too flash at the moment, might be wet trip down. :cold:

C'mon, it'll keep the dust down and keep the clay tacky for saturday.....

Bad luck Johann, next time eh, maybe the north Kaipara roads?

Devil

22nd September 2009, 13:31

Looking forward to my long weekend (starts Thursday!). It's about time I got away!

Bass

22nd September 2009, 15:15

C'mon, it'll keep the dust down and keep the clay tacky for saturday.....

True, but I too was hoping for a dry run down. Something to do with a brand new pair of knobblies and wet seal.
Oh well, guess I'll just have to make up for it when we hit the gravel. Could also make some of the fords on the 42 interesting.

The plan at this point is to make a pretty direct run to Pio Pio for a late lunch.
At that point we pick what we are going to do with the afternoon as there are buckets of options in the King Country. Should be able to arrange something so that those wanting to bail and head for Owhango or National Park have choices as to when.
I have mapped out a couple of possibilities - why don't you do something similar and we can compare ideas down there?
The other thing that occurs to me is that we might be able to use some of the mix to get home on Sunday.

Crisis management

22nd September 2009, 15:49

True, but I too was hoping for a dry run down. Something to do with a brand new pair of knobblies and wet seal.

I have mapped out a couple of possibilities - why don't you do something similar and we can compare ideas down there?
The other thing that occurs to me is that we might be able to use some of the mix to get home on Sunday.

Me on new Knobblies too....you go first, I'll set up the camera! :crazy:

Seriously tho, bits of the seal will be nasty, I was sliding all over the place on the TKCs last ride and that was dry.

I will have a selection of routes for your consideration, probably on a wet, unreadable map....:cold:
I was going to suggest Wairamarama rd to O'Briens (I remembered, ok) to Ruakiwi, Te Mata, Kawhia rd via the harbour then Huaturu rd to PioPio. thats fairly direct and gets to Pio Pio for late lunch time.

Looking forward to it!

Bass

22nd September 2009, 16:04

I was going to suggest Wairamarama rd to O'Briens (I remembered, ok) to Ruakiwi, Te Mata, Kawhia rd via the harbour then Huaturu rd to PioPio. thats fairly direct and gets to Pio Pio for late lunch time.

Great minds think alike.

Fools seldom differ

Pick one.

johannvr

22nd September 2009, 17:48

Johann, seems like there is no need for the maps, so might as well not bother.
Save me a trip up to Silverdale ;)

Weather is not looking too flash at the moment, might be wet trip down. :cold:

Ok, will hold back on them and contribute to the next run :yes:

johannvr

22nd September 2009, 17:50

argh! what a pain in the old harris for you johannvr mate! sorry to hear that those cursed work demands have impinged upon your weekend so, the bar-stewards.. typical council, making life difficult for everyone.

and thanks for the maps offer, although don't sweat it too much if it's a big hassle.. i might be able to get the chief accountant to OK the purchase of a book..

tsk.. next time, eh? and if you're looking for some sort of scant consolation, i guess since you'll be oop norf, at least you'll be well away from the big fashion yawn in the city.

nice one mate

Ok, will make up for the map thing next ride ... how about up norf for that one too - as in waaay up norf?:scooter:

johannvr

22nd September 2009, 17:55

C'mon, it'll keep the dust down and keep the clay tacky for saturday.....

Bad luck Johann, next time eh, maybe the north Kaipara roads?

True. I'd be keen for northern kaipara - maybe even further north? Getting kinda keen to explore sorta N.E. of Whangarei & around the B.O.I. & then maybe even a bit further north if time permits ... :rockon:

Kokopelli

22nd September 2009, 19:52

I'm hopefully knocking off work between 1-2pm on Fri, so will meander down to Tauramunui by my lonesome. Booked in and only things left to do is pack the panniers, and maybe pick up a new front tyre at Boyds that is more aggressive than the TKC on the bike now. Don't ask me what model rubber, it's DOT rated, and either a Dunslop or Mich. For $65, its probably going on.
Fri night I have a room to myself:wari:(meaning I can burp/fart/grumble and snort to my hearts content). Sat night, well someone will have to suffer:shifty:

I've got an offer to have my bike trailered to Owhango, but that may fall through due to some wetness. Mind if I join you if that's the case?

I can let you know Thursday evening. I can be on the road by 1pm (from Auckland). It just means that there will be less tread on the tyres by Saturday.

tri boy

22nd September 2009, 20:03

Should be able to sort something out.;)
I'll be trying to avoid seal as much as possible, but still getting into Taurumanui before 5.30-6pm.
I'll check in with you on Thurs night at the latest.

dino3310

22nd September 2009, 20:09

:bye::bye::crybaby::crybaby::crybaby::crybaby: :argh:

junkmanjoe

22nd September 2009, 20:11

cant you make it mate....

agricon

22nd September 2009, 20:22

I now have some spare time this Saturday and would enjoy a good day's ride with you all if there is room. It would be just for Saturday's adventure.:yes:

Kokopelli

22nd September 2009, 20:23

dino3310

22nd September 2009, 20:24

cant you make it mate....

naa mate bloody women and holidays:argh::argh::angry2::angry:

tri boy

22nd September 2009, 20:28

I now have some spare time this Saturday and would enjoy a good day's ride with you all if there is room. It would be just for Saturday's adventure.:yes:
Be great to catch up:yes:
I think MXNUT is heading down Sat also. Maybe PM him.

junkmanjoe

22nd September 2009, 20:36

naa mate bloody women and holidays:argh::argh::angry2::angry:

shame mate was looking forward to catching up..oh well next time aye..

dino3310

22nd September 2009, 20:42

shame mate was looking forward to catching up..oh well next time aye..

yeah mate me too.
have a good 1 mate, and rark tri boy up on his new toy:whistle:

junkmanjoe

22nd September 2009, 20:48

any thing for you mate....:Oops: sorry tri boy didnt see ya there..

agricon

23rd September 2009, 06:40

Be great to catch up:yes:
I think MXNUT is heading down Sat also. Maybe PM him.
Thx Tri boy, yes it will be good to catch up again. I'll try and stay on the bike a bit longer this time :laugh:
OK i'll pm MXNUT and see what his plans are. Once again thanks and see you on Saturday.

Bass

23rd September 2009, 08:47

Crisis management

23rd September 2009, 08:59

I don't have much of an idea either Bass, but the start of Marks thread says 10 am at National park to do Fishers first.
Tempting to nail the 42nd on the way to National park tho?

marks

23rd September 2009, 09:27

It has probably been asked already but since I'm going senile, I'll ask again.

Where are we all assembling Saturday morning?

Servo at National Park could work but if some of the trailer trash are planning to assault the 42 west to east, then maybe the cafe in Owhango would be better.

the intention was that we all meet at the service station at National Park at 10am.

After we have done Fishers both ways we will decide how to approach the 42nd (over lunch at National Park)

I suspect we mayl effectively be in two groups - the trailies and the big bikes - but it all depends on who turns up on what.

Bass

23rd September 2009, 09:54

Eddieb

23rd September 2009, 09:55

the intention was that we all meet at the service station at National Park at 10am.

After we have done Fishers both ways we will decide how to approach the 42nd (over lunch at National Park)

I suspect we mayl effectively be in two groups - the trailies and the big bikes - but it all depends on who turns up on what.

Me, Joe and hopefully Barry will be aiming for there at 10.

Mark, when we go through Fishers can we regroup at the fallen tree stump for a few minutes and have a look there at what thats like. Thats the only point that may stop the big bikes going both ways and I'm keen to go the other way.

.chris

23rd September 2009, 10:17

the intention was that we all meet at the service station at National Park at 10am.

After we have done Fishers both ways we will decide how to approach the 42nd (over lunch at National Park)

I suspect we mayl effectively be in two groups - the trailies and the big bikes - but it all depends on who turns up on what.

I do not think we have many with "big bikes", from my memory Devil was the only one on a big'un (from the Auckland group), and he is just doing the ride down, he is not joining us for the saturday ride. And 990's do not count as big bikes, under 1000cc :confused:

Unless you call at 650 a "big bike" :shifty:

Eddieb

23rd September 2009, 10:42

I do not think we have many with "big bikes", from my memory Devil was the only one on a big'un, and he is just doing the ride down, he is not joining us for the saturday ride.

Unless you call at 650 a "big bike" :shifty:

I'm on my R100GS PD, Alex will be on his R80GS I think, I'm not sure what others there might be.

Oscar

23rd September 2009, 10:47

There's a bit of rain here this morning.
You guys might wanna do the 42nd "downhill" (South to North).

MXNUT

23rd September 2009, 10:51

Be great to catch up:yes:
I think MXNUT is heading down Sat also. Maybe PM him.

OK i'll pm MXNUT and see what his plans are. Once again thanks and see you on Saturday.

Im trailer trash this time Guys ( again ), i am taking my and Suzi Girls bikes from here to national park and meeting up with a mate who is coming up from welly town to join us and ride her bike so will see you all on sat morn down there. :chase:

branahanrahan

23rd September 2009, 11:11

Ok, will make up for the map thing next ride ... how about up norf for that one too - as in waaay up norf?:scooter:

like it mate.. and :soon: (ish): of course, i need a good couple of months notice to OK it all.. (the offspring need juggling as they're just a bit too big too stuff in the panniers nowadays..)

MXNUT

23rd September 2009, 11:16

There's a bit of rain here this morning.
You guys might wanna do the 42nd "downhill" (South to North).

And if it keeps raining i might have to take the RM :shit:

dino3310

23rd September 2009, 11:28

:shit:http://www.metvuw.com/forecast/forecast.php?type=rain&region=nzni&noofdays=7

Eddieb

23rd September 2009, 11:36

:shit:http://www.metvuw.com/forecast/forecast.php?type=rain&region=nzni&noofdays=7

The weekend itself is going to be fine, all good.

ducatijim

23rd September 2009, 12:16

There's a bit of rain here this morning.
You guys might wanna do the 42nd "downhill" (South to North).

And there will be a lot more there Thursday!

Bass

23rd September 2009, 12:36

And there will be a lot more there Thursday!

Thanks a lot - fkn cheer germ!
Well that's your dinner screwed tonight then.

(BTW, how long does it take the creeks to go down once the rain stops?) :crybaby:

agricon

23rd September 2009, 13:11

Im trailer trash this time Guys ( again ), i am taking my and Suzi Girls bikes from here to national park and meeting up with a mate who is coming up from welly town to join us and ride her bike so will see you all on sat morn down there. :chase:

Sweet, thanks for the info MXNUT, will see ya there.

dino3310

23rd September 2009, 14:39

The weekend itself is going to be fine, all good.

was just thinking of water levels

Devil

23rd September 2009, 15:13

Looking forward to it!
Got my rear knobble on, just getting my front TKC on tomorrow. WHEEEE!

I'll be seeing you fullas at the Autobahn!

MIXONE

23rd September 2009, 15:19

was just thinking of water levels

Do you think I will need my water wings?

Bass

23rd September 2009, 15:21

Do you think I will need my water wings?

Nah! Just take your tyres up to 120 psi and float across

Kokopelli

23rd September 2009, 16:26

If it's deep I'll walk the bike across, beats pushing it for the rest of the way.

Kokopelli

23rd September 2009, 17:09

Should be able to sort something out.;)
I'll be trying to avoid seal as much as possible, but still getting into Taurumanui before 5.30-6pm.
I'll check in with you on Thurs night at the latest.

Ok, it's official, I will be riding to Owhango. I think I can make Hamilton by 1pm, if needed. It's going to be a bit harder on the tyres, but that's just tough luck.

If you'd rather ride alone, just let me know, I can take it <_<: Will you be riding the Triumph?

Oscar

23rd September 2009, 17:22

If it's deep I'll walk the bike across, beats pushing it for the rest of the way.

The river was reasonably deep when we did it a few weeks ago, so we figured that someone (turned out it was me!), needed to stand in the middle to direct things. It's probably easier to ride (even with your feet down), but just watch the water pressure on the big bikes lower fairing/cylinders in the middle (which is where you put the poor bastid up this goolies in cold water). The other problem we've had with BMW's is cold shock stalling, so keep the revs up a bit (and take it from me, that water is cold!).

Kokopelli

23rd September 2009, 17:38

Yep, that's deep alright. Wouldn't want it any deeper than that, my R80 is no submarine, and I don't intend to swim across :no:

That looks like fun

23rd September 2009, 17:41

Bugger :shifty:, deep river crossing and Im going to mis them :jerry:
Oh well i think that i have brought all the starter motors in NZ by now :done:

Oscar

23rd September 2009, 17:42

Yep, that's deep alright. Wouldn't want it any deeper than that, my R80 is no submarine, and I don't intend to swim across :no:

Actually, I just realised that isn't the 42nd:doh:
It's up the road at Ohakune...

Kokopelli

23rd September 2009, 17:48

Oscar

23rd September 2009, 18:20

hehe, it did look a bit odd, but a lot of water can change things. I didn't recall seeing that step in the mud either. The only mud there is going zig zag up the hill and then down hill again after the bridge. The rest seemed to be more sandy.

Don't scare me like that...

Opps, sorry.
The northern most crossing on the 42 is the only one that's gonna give you a problem if it's really wet. The thing is it's fairly swift running, so I doubt it would stay high for long.

dino3310

23rd September 2009, 19:02

Opps, sorry.
The northern most crossing on the 42 is the only one that's gonna give you a problem if it's really wet. The thing is it's fairly swift running, so I doubt it would stay high for long.

looking at the rain forecast it looks like she'll peak in the very early hours of friday morn, should be close to normal flow just a bit murky on sat arvo, (dont hold me to that though) should be a great weekend if the weather patterns accurate, just enough rain to keep the dust down

Waihou Thumper

23rd September 2009, 19:08

Because the water will be covering it....
Take your gummies guys.....:shit:
Never seen so many clouds and rain thingies on the TV news map....:eek:
Still wish I was coming though, bugger it....!!

MXNUT

23rd September 2009, 19:26

If university students can get accross cook straight in a VAN then no little pissy stream is going to stop us true adventurers :stupid:

famous last words

dino3310

23rd September 2009, 19:35

no one said it would

tri boy

23rd September 2009, 21:00

Will you be riding the Triumph?

In someways the scrambler would be a better choice than my new (to me) XRL650.
I will be wanting to flat foot it alot this weekend, but the XR is a tall pig.
Expect many moments of "Ahhhhh faarrrk!,Thud! Winge moan grizzle. Some bugga help me! Ian you bastid, stop laughing!":killingme

Taz

23rd September 2009, 21:05

Just get up on the pegs and remember momentum is your friend. Go too slow and over she goes....

Waihou Thumper

23rd September 2009, 21:10

Andy.....perfect for the wee traillies....or in your case, the big farkkin roosting singles....:eek:
I wish I was going, I really wanna play in the mud and clay!

Eddieb

23rd September 2009, 21:56

In someways the scrambler would be a better choice than my new (to me) XRL650.
I will be wanting to flat foot it alot this weekend, but the XR is a tall pig.
Expect many moments of "Ahhhhh faarrrk!,Thud! Winge moan grizzle. Some bugga help me! Ian you bastid, stop laughing!":killingme

Hmmm, I better make sure I've got fresh batteries in the camera.

marks

23rd September 2009, 22:02

Have you decided which mount you are bringing?

The KLR is all ready to go (complete with shiny new XR650 bash plate, welded in footpeg brace, fixed headlight and brake switch and new wof/reg) - unfortunately I'm fighting a dose of the bot so if I'm feeling good on Friday I'll hop on the KLR :yes:. If I'm feeling mediocre I'll throw the yet to be reassembled DT on the trailer and drive up :mellow: and - the option I'm dreading - if I feel too shitty - I'll roll over in bed and go back to sleep:no:.

A stand in organaminizer may be needed....

Me, Joe and hopefully Barry will be aiming for there at 10.

Mark, when we go through Fishers can we regroup at the fallen tree stump for a few minutes and have a look there at what thats like. Thats the only point that may stop the big bikes going both ways and I'm keen to go the other way.

makes sense too me

Cary

23rd September 2009, 22:42

unfortunately I'm fighting a dose of the bot so if I'm feeling good on Friday I'll hop on the KLR :yes:. If I'm feeling mediocre I'll throw the yet to be reassembled DT on the trailer and drive up :mellow: and - the option I'm dreading - if I feel too shitty - I'll roll over in bed and go back to sleep:no:.

A stand in organaminizer may be needed....Been suffering from that for the last two weeks! Just getting over it now, hope we see you :yes:

Waihou Thumper

23rd September 2009, 22:58

Cary

24th September 2009, 05:28

You must be so excited bout riding the Red Rooster....
You know, before you posted the shots, I was doing the homework on them....Uncanny....
Perfect for the slippery stuff, the roads, it has the power too...
I might be changing jerseys mate one day....
Enjoy, we will see you :soon:
I am indeed, been a fun couple weeks getting to know it. Still get a buzz riding a 'dirt bike' on the road :laugh:

Looking forward to not having to struggle so much as I did on the Tiger in the tricky stuff. Think i'll miss the comfy seat tho.....

Kokopelli

24th September 2009, 06:42

- unfortunately I'm fighting a dose of the bot so if I'm feeling good on Friday I'll hop on the KLR :yes:. If I'm feeling mediocre I'll throw the yet to be reassembled DT on the trailer and drive up :mellow: and - the option I'm dreading - if I feel too shitty - I'll roll over in bed and go back to sleep:no:.

Your are not alone. Been coughing my lungs out for the last 5 weeks. Hopefully the clean, fresh air will clean out my sinuses. I feel best riding my bike.

Eddieb

24th September 2009, 07:37

- unfortunately I'm fighting a dose of the bot so if I'm feeling good on Friday I'll hop on the KLR :yes:. If I'm feeling mediocre I'll throw the yet to be reassembled DT on the trailer and drive up :mellow: and - the option I'm dreading - if I feel too shitty - I'll roll over in bed and go back to sleep:no:.

Come on Mark, no excuses.

You wimped out last time cause there was a bit of water in the sky, no doing the same again this time.

Bloody girly KLR riders.......

Crisis management

24th September 2009, 09:02

C'mon, you lot, it's not raining here and the sun stuck it's nose out a few minutes ago.

Mark, if you're crook, stay home and get better, I'm sure we can work out which way is north.....

However, it would be good to see you!

MXNUT

24th September 2009, 09:27

Its pissing down here ....... :Oops: No i meant its 30 degrees out side here the sun is shining and the ground is hard, and we have not had any rain in the last 3 weeks.

We gonna all be fine :sunny::sunny::sunny::sunny:

MIXONE

24th September 2009, 10:15

.chris

24th September 2009, 10:36

Tuis anyone?

Sorry guys, I think the rain might be my fault.

I am yet to (on the bike) make it futher south than Mercer with out getting rained on, I am yet to get through Ngaruawahia without torrential rain. WTF is with that place, is it always raining hard out there?
After the KCAR it was raining so hard I got lost getting out of Ngaruawahia and ended up in Glen Murray while trying to take the left side of the river from Ngaruawahia up to Huntly. That place is my rainy wet Bermuda Triangle.

Heading down to Hamilton this afternoon, rain levels dependent on my route, but probably SH22.

See you guys on Friday 10am (I will be waiting from about then) at the SH23 junction.

tri boy

24th September 2009, 18:01

I'll hopefully be finished work at 1pm, but 3pm Fri arvo is more likely, so i may be late getting to the motorcamp, as i want to head down on gravel. (some of those roads might have slips, so it will be an adventure just getting there).
There will be no heroic's from me this weekend, as it's the first decent ride on the the bush pig, so if it gets too knarly, I'm gunna sulk with a beer or Vodka, or both at the nearest watering hole.
See you lot Fri night and for others on Sat.:soon:

Kokopelli

24th September 2009, 18:28

I'll be leaving Auckland just before 12pm, via Otorohanga, Pio Pio, Ohura on to Owhango. If anyone wants to join up, let me know.

Devil

24th September 2009, 18:34

Hrm, it looks like we might be swimming down...

That looks like fun

24th September 2009, 19:29

Temperature here in the Naki was a scintilating 7 degrees this arvo :shit:
Sing along if you know the words :shifty:
de river deep and de river wide, hallalujaaaaaaaaaah :laugh:
Photos plz :jerry:

Crisis management

24th September 2009, 19:38

Last minute work panic which I might (yeah right) get sorted tonight but more likely sometime tomorrow, so don't wait for me and I will see you when I can......

Iain

junkmanjoe

24th September 2009, 20:52

Eddie and myself are still coming to have fun in the mud...:eek:

i had to work in the snow today..... fkn cold up the hill today..:shit:

we be leaving mstn early and meeting the party at 10 am....

fuk hope its not raining sat morn...:doh:

junkmanjoe

24th September 2009, 20:54

Oh P:S

If you dont come mark your a pussy...:done:

marks

24th September 2009, 21:57

Oh P:S

If you dont come mark your a pussy...:done:

meoooow.....

MXNUT

24th September 2009, 22:19

New front tyre fitted to the 200 and new rear tyre fitted to the 400 ( and water wings standing by ) bring on the rain and the mud :done: Yehaaa :stupid:

See the rest of you crazys on saturday morning

there will be no lame excuses acceppted for not turning up

marks

25th September 2009, 08:06

sorry ladies

I haven't got enough energy to have a good shit let alone ride to Taumaranui. I'm going to sit at home and feel sorry for myself.

Ride safe and take lots of photo's

Crisis management

25th September 2009, 08:12

Good call Mark, I will fall off in your honour.....I've just got to get this work finished so I can go!!!

Paladin

25th September 2009, 08:14

You guys have a GREAT weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:2thumbsup

Waihou Thumper

25th September 2009, 08:24

Going to be wet, wicked, slippery and awesome fun.....
I will be there in spirit.....:2thumbsup
:Playnice:everyone and bring back lots and lots of stories and photos....

bart

25th September 2009, 09:24

Good luck guys. Ride safe. Hope there's not too much carnage.:crazy:

Cary

25th September 2009, 09:30

I haven't got enough energy to have a good shit let alone ride to Taumaranui. I'm going to sit at home and feel sorry for myself.How about making the MAPMEA ride instead.......

MIXONE

25th September 2009, 10:08

Being an Adventure Ride virgin on a borrowed bike I think I would be best giving this a miss.The weather is shit and getting worse.:shit::baby:
Enjoy guys and hopefully see you on another one.

junkmanjoe

25th September 2009, 10:13

well i hope that eddie and i are not the only ones turning up to have fun in the mud....

wah hooooo :eek:.....splat....dam cow pads....:laugh:

Taz

25th September 2009, 10:43

Cary and I will be there. Hope we don't get too wet on the way down.

Eddieb

25th September 2009, 11:19

It's stopped raining in Wellington and has been fine for a few hours. I'm hoping it will hold out for the evening ride out to JunkmanJoe's in the Wairarapa.

Waihou Thumper

25th September 2009, 11:24

I am hoping the puddles are so deep, that 800cc tank of yours falls in and all you can see is the Tank cap......:done:
Seriously though, have fun you lucky bugger.........:eek:
I will be keeping the Dairy Industry going and doing my bit for NZ......:)

Kokopelli

25th September 2009, 11:25

heading off now...

junkmanjoe

25th September 2009, 12:37

clouds are brakeing in mastervagas tiny little bit of blue sky

Taz

25th September 2009, 17:06

Cary and I are here. Bass has just arrived. A few light showers passing over at the moment. Now for a beer. :)

junkmanjoe

25th September 2009, 17:10

are you at the motor camp...

Eddieb

25th September 2009, 17:12

Have those who have cancelled taken care of their bookings?

nooles

25th September 2009, 17:26

I'm seriously thinking about ripping over tomorrow and spending the day with you and joe, are you 2 still doing the Whanga RD on Sunday?

junkmanjoe

25th September 2009, 17:29

yes sir. be a pleasure to grace the presence of the big again..

we got a spare bed if you keen to camp down for the night..

we cant go all that way and miss out the mighty whanga mate
JMJ

nooles

25th September 2009, 17:33

yes sir. be a pleasure to grace the presence of the big again..

we got a spare bed if you keen to camp down for the night..

we cant go all that way and miss out the mighty whanga mate
JMJ

Mate if you've got a spare bed I might stay the night if thats ok, I was just gunna rip back home after the ride and meet you's on sunday morn

Taz

25th September 2009, 18:23

are you at the motor camp...
Yes Taumarunui Holiday Park.

The Beers are flowing and we off soon to the RSA for dinner.
Clearing here now. Will check in later.
Andy.

MXNUT

25th September 2009, 19:29

Cary and I are here. Bass has just arrived. A few light showers passing over at the moment. Now for a beer. :)

Hope you and Cary didnt get too wet on the way down <_<

Catch you all at 10.00 am at the national park servo :jerry:

see the rest of you pikers another time

Eddieb

25th September 2009, 20:02

I'm parked up at Casa Del JunkManJoe now, all feed and watered. We leave here about 5:30am in the morning

ducatijim

25th September 2009, 20:39

I will be keeping the Dairy Industry going and doing my bit for NZ......:)

We seriously need more guys like you Mark.......a big

ONYA !

( cause, its devoted real nice hard working, salt of the earth folk like you Mark, that cause me to be able to spend sooo much time NOT keeping the wheels of Fonterrible rolling)