South Island passes adventure ride

[Ruralman]

Looks like the date most likely to suit us for this adventure ride is the week starting Sunday Feb 11. The idea of this ride is a trip round the Sth Island that rides over every road pass mentioned in the Kiwi Maps road map. Jantar and I will be getting together soon to pick likely distances each day and stopping points. The list of passes in order starting from Dunedin is:: drum roll - Danseys, Haka, Mckenzie, Burkes, Dyers, Gebbies, Weka, Lewis,Buller Gorge(no pass but great road) to Blenheim, Dashwood, Redwood, Taylors, Wards, Jacks, Jollies, Weka again, Okuku,Lees, Porters, Arthurs, Haast, & Lindis
There you go, 20 of them. Hope to knock it off in 5-6 days
If people can't get away for the whole thing then you may be able to join up for part of it as we come through, or start when we come past your place and do the bits we've already done at the other end on your own etc. This is advanced notice so you can plan time off if you're keen.
Who's a starter?

[Zukin]

Sounds like a great trip :yes:

My wife and I will be in the South Island on our own motorcycle adventure ride then.
We will be starting in Picton on the 13th Feb, down the West Coast to Bluff then up the East Coast, departing Picton again on the 21st Feb.

I cant really tell you much more, but if we are in the same area at the same time you can count us in.

Cheers Scott

[Ruralman]

Sounds like a great trip :yes:

My wife and I will be in the South Island on our own motorcycle adventure ride then.
We will be starting in Picton on the 13th Feb, down the West Coast to Bluff then up the East Coast, departing Picton again on the 21st Feb.

I cant really tell you much more, but if we are in the same area at the same time you can count us in.

Cheers Scott

Keep in touch and we might meet up. Which way round might depend on the weather at the time.

[Jantar]

OK Folks here it is:

Ruralman and I had a good look at potential routes and distances this afternoon, and this is what we have decided on.

Sunday 11th Feb: Leave Dunedin and head north taking the coastal route. Turn inland at Glenavy and head to Wahou Downs. Then over Meyers Pass into the Hakataramea Valley. Over Hakataramea Pass to Haldon Rd. A short detour 15 minutes to the south to Littles Pass, then U-turn and head to McKenzie Pass. Then onto Burkes Pass. From here its Highway 79 to Geraldine, the Main road to Rakaia, then the back roads to Banks Peninsular. Up to Gebbies Pass, then the Summit road to Dyers pass and Evans Pass and down to Sumner.

From Christchurch its mainly main roads north to Waipara then via Weka Pass and Lewis Pass to Springs Juction. From here its north to Murchison and follow the Buller River to St Arnaud. A fairly straight but scenic road takes us to Blenheim.

We take the back streets of Blenheim then on to Taylors Pass. Out to Dashwood then Redwood Pass to get onto SH1. We cross Weld Pass and Dashwood Pass then turn southwest towards the very scenic Molesworth. Over Wards pass then down towards Hamner. Saxton Pass is also in this area, but its on a No Exit road, and now that DOC have taken over we may not get permission for that one. Jacks Pass and Jollies Pass loop then into Hamner.

Back over Weka Pass (yes we are back tracking a road we have already ridden) and down to Amberly then to Whiterock, Okuku Pass and Lees pass to Oxford. Then Porters Pass and Arthurs Pass to the west coast and down to the Glaciers.

Through the scenic west coast to Haast, then inland and over Haast Pass to Makarora. Follow Lake Wanaka, then Lake Hawea, and some back roads I know of to Tarras. Over Lindis Pass to Omarama, then Ahuriri Pass, and follow the Waitaki Hydro Lakes to Duntroon. Turn south to Cross Danseys Pass, and on to Danseys Pass pub.

No more passes, but 25 covered in 5 days, and the 6th day to get home again.

[miSTa]

I'm keen to tackle the top half of the South Island with you both (and who ever else comes along) at this stage. Sounds great. :first:

I think there is a definate need to plan what trips I'll be doing this summer...

[Ruralman]

How about you Canterbury riders who just want a good days ride join up with us on Sunday late morning (11th Feb) near oamaru for the trip inland and back to ChCh via the Port hills.
That would include Myers, Haka, Littles, McKenzie, Burkes passes before heading up and out to Motukarara (how the F do you spell that) to do the Banks Pen. ones. We'll be stopping somewhere around ChCh that night.
Who would be on for that?

[Ruralman]

As you can see from Jantar's list another few passes got added getting us up to about 25, including a few that aren't actually in the Kiwi Maps road map but they have helped give us a better route and added a few more interesting roads. Has anyone been through the Myers Pass rd to the Haka? Oldrider reckoned Far Que would have done it recently. Whats the road like and how long to get through to the Haka valley road?
Cheers

[far queue]

How about you Canterbury riders who just want a good days ride join up with us on Sunday late morning (11th Feb) near oamaru for the trip inland and back to ChCh via the Port hills.
That would include Myers, Haka, Littles, McKenzie, Burkes passes before heading up and out to Motukarara (how the F do you spell that) to do the Banks Pen. ones. We'll be stopping somewhere around ChCh that night.
Who would be on for that? No thanks. I will have been down that way, and probably over those roads, the weekend before for the Vincent rally. Plus I’ll be down there again March 3+4, possibly on some of those roads again, for the March Hare rally. So, not keen on a 640km round trip on the same roads 3 times in a month - sorry. I could meet up near Motukarara perhaps.


Has anyone been through the Myers Pass rd to the Haka? Oldrider reckoned Far Que would have done it recently. Whats the road like and how long to get through to the Haka valley road? I’ve done that road a few times now and I love it. It’s mostly in great condition, and ranges from graded shingle near each end, to farm track in places. I don’t know if I would want to take a car through it, but you guys will get through no trouble. You’ll be able to maintain a good average speed. It’s only 18km long and will only take you 30mins or so to cross if you’re pushed for time. But you may want to take your time and enjoy the scenery – there’s an amazing stone bridge in the middle of nowhere that dates back to the early 1900’s from memory, as Myers Pass Rd used to be the main road. Oh, and watch for Wallabies. There’s some pics of Myers Pass here … post 212 …

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=20977&page=15

[rwh]

I'm not familiar with many of those passes - I take it this is the kind of adventure ride that will require an adventure bike to make it? ie a plain road bike won't do? Otherwise I could be interested; I should have my restricted by then ...

[Ruralman]

Thanks that info Far Queue and for those photos, I'm going to look forward to that part of the trip.
You're going to be doing a lot of Kms around then - we'll catch you another time or maybe for the last bit over the Port hills.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=20977&page=15[/QUOTE]

[Ruralman]

I'm not familiar with many of those passes - I take it this is the kind of adventure ride that will require an adventure bike to make it? ie a plain road bike won't do? Otherwise I could be interested; I should have my restricted by then ...
have a look at the photos on the link in Far Queue's post above. If you're confident riding your bike on those roads and some that may have a bit more loose gravel on them then you could do it. An adventure bike does make it easier because the front wheel in particular is bigger which helps on the rougher stuff and loose gravel. I used to ride a specialist road bike on gravel roads a long time ago without problems but I grew up on back roads and trail bikes so that probably helped. The other thing that makes a huge difference is the handlebars - as long as they're reasonably wide you're OK, narrow ones are a bloody nightmare, especially the low narrow clip on types.
You've got plenty of time till the ride to try out some local roads and see how you go.

[Jantar]

I'm not familiar with many of those passes - I take it this is the kind of adventure ride that will require an adventure bike to make it? ie a plain road bike won't do? Otherwise I could be interested; I should have my restricted by then ...

All of these passes are on public roads and would be perfectly OK for an experienced rider on a road bike. However some roads would be quite difficult for inexperienced riders, or even for experienced riders on pure sports bikes. For these parts there are alternative routes that stick to sealed roads and still give a scenic ride.

The Meyers Pass, Haka pass, Little Pass, McKenzie Pass section can be bypassed by sports bikes either going via Twizel- Tekapo, or Pareora - Fairlie, and then we all meet up at Burkes Pass.

I'm not trying to put you off rwh, but I would reccommend that you try a few endurance rides before committting to a ride of this nature. We are looking at 2500km in five days plus whatever distance is involved in getting to the start and home again. The longest day (day 1) will be about 9 hours riding, and the shortest about 5 hours.

[SDU]

Depending on work will depend if I can do some off the ride into our neck off the woods. Even if I hook up near Gebbies. I usually work split shits Sundays. But you can always get the locals out for a beer to meet with you the night you're staying.

[rwh]

I'm not trying to put you off rwh, but I would reccommend that you try a few endurance rides before committting to a ride of this nature. We are looking at 2500km in five days plus whatever distance is involved in getting to the start and home again. The longest day (day 1) will be about 9 hours riding, and the shortest about 5 hours.

Sure. I think putting me off would be in the best interests of all concerned :-)

[Ruralman]

Don't give up to easily RWH. JAntar tells me we might have a one armed fella in a sidecar coming!!

[Transalper]

Don't give up to easily RWH. JAntar tells me we might have a one armed fella in a sidecar coming!!
those oldish VT250F's are quite good in the shingle too... for a road bike. Just watch the belly clearance.
Miss Transalper used to ride one and followed me into some places i didn't really expect her to go (she knew where we were going so I thought she'd just meet me at the other end where shingle rejoined seal, thought she'd go via the seal but then i see her still in my mirrors when the dust cleared)

[Jantar]

.... But you can always get the locals out for a beer to meet with you the night you're staying.

We'll be counting on that. :drinkup:

[far queue]

.... But you can always get the locals out for a beer to meet with you the night you're staying.

We'll be counting on that. :drinkup:
Oh OK, twist my arm then :apint:

[Ruralman]

Oh OK, twist my arm then :apint:

We'll be asking for some recommendations for a backpackers thats handy to a good pub to meet at - bit early for that yet tho.

[Jantar]

Weld Pass, where the Unimog crashed, is one of the passes we'll be taking. I've always treated this as just an insignificant piece of road, but maybe we'll look at it with a bit more respect on this trip. :shit:

[Blairos]

Sounds like a great adventure!

My guess is there are going to be a whole heap of KB'ers in the South in late Feb/Early March - the trip I am on (with about 6 others at this point) will be there from 20th to the 4th or slightly longer

there seems to be extreme potential for a catch-up dont ya think? :ride:

[far queue]

My guess is there are going to be a whole heap of KB'ers in the South in late Feb/Early March - the trip I am on (with about 6 others at this point) will be there from 20th to the 4th or slightly longer

there seems to be extreme potential for a catch-up dont ya think? :ride:Make your trip slightly longer and go to the March Hare rally at Waimate on 1, 2, & 3 March. A big rally with a bunch of KB'ers in attendance.

[Ruralman]

Sounds like a great adventure!

My guess is there are going to be a whole heap of KB'ers in the South in late Feb/Early March - the trip I am on (with about 6 others at this point) will be there from 20th to the 4th or slightly longer

there seems to be extreme potential for a catch-up dont ya think? :ride:

If you check our dates you'll see we'll be all finished by then (by 16th or 17th)
The idea of going to the March hare sounds like a good one. looks like you'll have to either shift your trip earlier or later or extend it one way or the other.
You're right tho - it will be a great adventure and it would be great if you can join us for all or part of it

[Ruralman]

Hi all. There's a few new names appearing on this adventure riders section so I thought I refresh this planed trip posting - as you can see its planned for the week starting 11th Feb and for 5-6 days and will cover all the raod Passes of the South island
Theres about 26 on our list plus a few insignificant ones we'll go over anyway. Will be about 2500km with the first day being the biggie for most of us starting down here. The first pass we plan on hitting is Myers inland from Oamaru.
potentially we could do it in reverse if extreme weather suggested that would be a better option - ie up the West Coast to start with.
Planning on staying at backpackers mostly.
We need a recommendation from the Canterbury KB'rs about a Backpackers handy to a good pub for a meet up. This is probably the only one we will book and hopefully there's one with reasonably secure bike parking? Any ideas?
Anyone else interested in the trip?

[PLUG]

We need a recommendation from the Canterbury KB'rs about a Backpackers handy to a good pub for a meet up. This is probably the only one we will book and hopefully there's one with reasonably secure bike parking? Any ideas?


... hmmm ... can't think of anything off the top of me head ... will have a bit of a sniff around & let you know ... there is a heap inside the 4 ave's, both BP's & pubs ... even a few that are both !!! :drinknsin ... not sure about secure parking, which i suppose is the main need you have ...

[Ruralman]

... hmmm ... can't think of anything off the top of me head ... will have a bit of a sniff around & let you know ... there is a heap inside the 4 ave's, both BP's & pubs ... even a few that are both !!! :drinknsin ... not sure about secure parking, which i suppose is the main need you have ...

Thanks, some local knowledge will be really useful for this bit - in theory I have relations (inlaws- becoming outlaws) that I could stay with, but, turning up with a bunch of other bikers when all we want to do is catch up with you guys over a few beers probably isn't the done thing.
There are also a few camping grounds in ChCh which might have some security - we could just taxi or walk to a pub from there??

[miSTa]

We'll be asking for some recommendations for a backpackers thats handy to a good pub to meet at - bit early for that yet tho.

There's a backpackers right in the middle of town (Hereford St, adjacent to Latimer Sq). Don't know what the name of the place is - I'll call past on my way to work and have a look. They have a lot of foreign tourists, shouldn' be to hard for you guys to hitch with a couple of swedish birds while you're there.... :innocent: :laugh:

[far queue]

Planning on staying at backpackers mostly.
We need a recommendation from the Canterbury KB'rs about a Backpackers handy to a good pub for a meet up. This is probably the only one we will book and hopefully there's one with reasonably secure bike parking? Any ideas?I go past this place twice a day, so I took some pics for you today …

"Base backpackers" In Cathedral Square, visit their website here for prices and booking.
Tandoori Palace Indian restaurant, in the same building
Saints and Sinners Bar in the same building
Warners pub right next door, with outside beer garden, and good bar meals.
Camelot Hotel restaurant and bar also next door on the other side.
Parking - either in the Square right at the door, or in a parking building 2-3 minutes walk away.

Oh, and as Mr S so tastefully pointed out also lots of nice chicky babe back packers

You're not going to get more central than the square, plus parking, pubs, food, and eye candy.

I've attached a pic of their business card and premises.

1. NE corner of the Square, where these establishments are.
2. I've marked left to right - Camelot Hotel, Backpackers, Beer Garden, Warners.
3. Another view of the corner where everything is.
4. View from the door of the backpackers – Camelot Hotel to the right.
5. View from the door of the backpackers to the beer garden and pub.
6. Base Backpackers business card

[far queue]

A slight diversion on the way home and here’s few pics of the place Mr S was talking about. There’s a hotel/pub/function centre just down the road, but I think the bars are only available to residents and those attending functions.

1. “Charlie B’s” backpackers on the corner of Madras and Gloucester next to Latimer Square.
2. Charlie B’s and the closest pub.
3. Charlie B’s showing motorbike park outside and Latimer Square in the background.
4. Charlie B’s business Card
5. Charlie B’s brochure
6. Charlie B’s brochure, flipside

[Ruralman]

Thanks heaps for that FQ - that Base backpackers + the parking building are probably the best option from the look of it. Hopefully Jantar will take a peak at this as well.
Sounds like we might need a swedish phrase book as well!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Jantar]

Yes, I have been looking. I also have the BBH Backpacker's Directory which lists most of the backpackers in New Zealand. I check the listings and ratings when I'm home tomorrow.

[scumdog]

CB here, well this all sounds great but I don't think the HD will handle this scenic tour. Anyone got a space for the "SOUL MAMA" who could cook up the Jambalaya and creole soup (currently watcking Gordon watshisname). Those passes would count in the top ten most picturesque areas except for the Catlins and man the BIG SKY would be Wundrful.

[miSTa]

The backpackers I was thinking of was the Occidental: http://www.occidental.co.nz/index.asp

he best thing about this place is the gym next door and watching all the ... :shutup:

[Ruralman]

The backpackers I was thinking of was the Occidental: http://www.occidental.co.nz/index.asp

he best thing about this place is the gym next door and watching all the ... :shutup:

That flashing jacket teddy bear is begging to worry me!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Ruralman]

CB here, well this all sounds great but I don't think the HD will handle this scenic tour. Anyone got a space for the "SOUL MAMA" who could cook up the Jambalaya and creole soup (currently watcking Gordon watshisname). Those passes would count in the top ten most picturesque areas except for the Catlins and man the BIG SKY would be Wundrful.

Sounds like its time that second Harley got traded on a big adventure bike CB!!!

[Korea]

5. Charlie B’s brochure


$1 Discount for VIP's!!! Whaaaa-hooooo~! :niceone:

[miSTa]

That flashing jacket teddy bear is begging to worry me!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What's wrong with the teddy? He's wearing what teddy bears normally wear...

[Ruralman]

What's wrong with the teddy? He's wearing what teddy bears normally wear...

Whilst peaking through the window at the gym next door????

[miSTa]

I think I'll retreat while I'm ahead...

[Ruralman]

I think I'll retreat while I'm ahead...

Seriously, thanks for your help. That backpackers you've suggested looks pretty good. I have emailed them to clarify secure parking availability. (Might have to invest in a disk lock before this trip as a security aid as well.)
Look forward to meeting you - but raincoats will be treated with suspicion!!!

[miSTa]

Seriously, thanks for your help. That backpackers you've suggested looks pretty good. I have emailed them to clarify secure parking availability. (Might have to invest in a disk lock before this trip as a security aid as well.)
Look forward to meeting you - but raincoats will be treated with suspicion!!!

No problem, happy to help.

You'll be pleased to know that I don't wear trenchcoats in real life. :cool:

[Transalper]

I just came back thru the Lewis and there's no drama there. Will be doing Arthurs and Lewis again next weekend on the Greymouth Run. By the time this ride happens there'll be no snow anywhere.

[Jantar]

It appears that the passes ride will meet up with the "Ride around NZ - Charity Event" at a couple of locations.

[Ruralman]

It appears that the passes ride will meet up with the "Ride around NZ - Charity Event" at a couple of locations.

Is this Zukin's one or something else?? - got a link or more info? Each group should at least know about each other and create opportunities to meet.

[Jantar]

Yes, it is the Zukin's. See http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?p=807173#post807173

[Jantar]

Could all those who have shown an interest in this ride please confirm on the calender that they will be coming. I would like to confirm the Molesworth section with Doc asap, and make bookings at the backpackers.

At this stage I have 7 riders who have indicated that they wish to ride the whole trip. Only three KBers, two from Adventure Rider (one from Australia and one from USA), and two from Chatto Creek Club.

[timg]

Hi, I should have my new Transalp by then. Would be keen to catch up with you folks and do the Rakaia to Sumner section. Just getting back into bikes, so would be taking it easy - gotta have a nana rider along eh?:yes: Look forward to seeing the itinary when it's sorted. Cheers.

[Ruralman]

The itinerary is well sorted. Here it is again.
Sunday 11th Feb: Leave Dunedin 8:30am and head north taking the coastal route. Turn inland at Glenavy and head to Wahou Downs. Then over Meyers Pass into the Hakataramea Valley. Over Hakataramea Pass to Haldon Rd. A short detour 15 minutes to the south to Littles Pass, then U-turn and head to McKenzie Pass. Then onto Burkes Pass. From here its Highway 79 to Geraldine, the Main road to Rakaia, then the back roads to Banks Peninsular. Up to Gebbies Pass, then the Summit road to Dyers pass and Evans Pass and down to Sumner.

From Christchurch its mainly main roads north to Waipara then via Weka Pass and Lewis Pass to Springs Juction. From here its north to Murchison and follow the Buller River to St Arnaud. A fairly straight but scenic road takes us to Blenheim.

We take the back streets of Blenheim then on to Taylors Pass. Out to Dashwood then Redwood Pass to get onto SH1. We cross Weld Pass and Dashwood Pass then turn southwest towards the very scenic Molesworth. Over Wards pass then down towards Hamner. Saxton Pass is also in this area, but its on a No Exit road, and now that DOC have taken over we may not get permission for that one. Jacks Pass and Jollies Pass loop then into Hamner.

Back over Weka Pass (yes we are back tracking a road we have already ridden) and down to Amberly then to Whiterock, Okuku Pass and Lees pass to Oxford. Then Porters Pass and Arthurs Pass to the west coast and down to the Glaciers.

Through the scenic west coast to Haast, then inland and over Haast Pass to Makarora. Follow Lake Wanaka, then Lake Hawea, and some back roads I know of to Tarras. Over Lindis Pass to Omarama, then Ahuriri Pass, and follow the Waitaki Hydro Lakes to Duntroon. Turn south to Cross Danseys Pass, and on to Danseys Pass pub.

No more passes, but 25 covered in 5 days, and the 6th day to get home again.

[timg]

Ok. I saw that. Thought it might get broken down a bit more to where on wot day so those that may hop in for a section or two could figure out where to catch up? Put it another way - wot day will you be passing thru my turf? Monday or Tuesday? Cheers

[Ruralman]

Ok. I saw that. Thought it might get broken down a bit more to where on wot day so those that may hop in for a section or two could figure out where to catch up? Put it another way - wot day will you be passing thru my turf? Monday or Tuesday? Cheers

It would be Sunday - we do about 700kms I think - from Dunedin right through Haka etc and Port hills passes to ChCh. Its our biggest day. You could maybe meet up with us in Oamaru and ride through the Myers - Burkes section and leave us around Geraldine.
Cheers
Bruce

[NighthawkNZ]

I cant do the the whole trip, (I be back at work :( ) but depending on the day you pass through to dunedin I should be able to tag on for some of the trip... a day trip (sunday or saturday I can do)

[Jantar]

I cant do the the whole trip, (I be back at work :( ) but depending on the day you pass through to dunedin I should be able to tag on for some of the trip... a day trip (sunday or saturday I can do)
Sunday 11th feb, we leave McIver & Veitches Dunedin at 08:30 am.

[NighthawkNZ]

Sunday 11th feb, we leave McIver & Veitches Dunedin at 08:30 am.

I try haul my lame arse outta bed then... lol

[timg]

It would be Sunday - we do about 700kms I think - from Dunedin right through Haka etc and Port hills passes to ChCh. Its our biggest day. You could maybe meet up with us in Oamaru and ride through the Myers - Burkes section and leave us around Geraldine.
Cheers
Bruce

Hi,
That sounds like a plan. Would continue on to Sumner which is only an hour or so away from home. Cheers, Tim.

[Jantar]

Hi,
That sounds like a plan. Would continue on to Sumner which is only an hour or so away from home. Cheers, Tim.
I would expect us to be refueling in Oamaru around 10:00 am. Carry a packed lunch and plenty of liquids for the first days ride. We'll stop for lunch somewhere between Hakataramea Pass and McKenzie Pass.

[Ruralman]

I try haul my lame arse outta bed then... lol

Probably time that VTR saw some genuine NZ backcountry gravel roads.

[NighthawkNZ]

Chatto Creek Club.

I visit the Chatto Creek Pub regularly when we go to Alexandrathats my partners parents local watering hole... :)

[NighthawkNZ]

Probably time that VTR saw some genuine NZ backcountry gravel roads.

hmmmmmmmmmm and get it dirty :gob:

[SDU]

Lemans & I will meet up with you for drinks on the night (Sunday) you stay in ChCh.
Depending on work it may be possible to ride some of the local passes on any of the 3 days you're near by.

[Jantar]

Lemans & I will meet up with you for drinks on the night (Sunday) you stay in ChCh.
Depending on work it may be possible to ride some of the local passes on any of the 3 days you're near by.

That would be great. I have booked us into The Marine in Sumner as they have off street parking and all facilities. I for one would appreciate a local guide when we do the Okuku - Lees section on the Wednesday 14th.

So far we have 8 riders confirmed including 2 from overseas (Aus and USA), and 3 interested including 1 from Australia.

[Moki]

Now that fits right into my New Year's resolution. Veeery keen to take in maybe the return trek from the top. Hook up maybe Blenheim. Any ther "narthiners" interested in going for a blast?

[laRIKin]

I for one would appreciate a local guide when we do the Okuku - Lees section on the Wednesday 14th.

I would like to but have this thing called work, so I will have to see what I can do about that.
I know that will enjoy the trip around the Lees Valley.

If I can get the time off I could take you down some of the river tracks as well, so you can get muddy or real dusty.
Depending on if we get a summer longer than two days.

[RedKLR650]

Sunday - we do about 700kms I think - from Dunedin right through Haka etc and Port hills passes to ChCh. Its our biggest day. You could maybe meet up with us in Oamaru and ride through the Myers - Burkes section and leave us around Geraldine.
Cheers
Bruce

Hi Bruce,
If you guys are really going all out for the pass thing, there is the BIG pass about 6 km from the Little Pass ( On the Holden Road ). It's 3 km off the shingle on a legal paper road, but I know the farmer that owns the land ( Grays Hills Station ) so I don't think it would be a problem. It would only add about 10 min to the day, but one more pass all the same...... Give me a buzz on 0 3 688 5050 to discuss if interested
:-) Cheers, Stu

[Zukin]

Hey all

Do you have an idea of where you will be on what dates?
Attached is our plan on our ride around NZ, and we would love to catch up for a cuppa or beer :)
or even better to ride with you if we are heading the same way

For those of you that finish the Passes trip and want to tag along on ours would be most welcome (same applies before the passes trip starts)

Cheers Scott

DAY 11 Tuesday 13th February
Picton to Westport
Distance = 320km
Road Conditions – All tar seal today
From Picton, we follow the Queen Charlotte Road through the Marlborough Sounds to Nelson.
We then head inland towards Murchison, before heading through the Magical Buller Gorge and onto Westport. .

DAY 12 Wednesday 14th February
Murchison to Franz Josef
Distance = 300km
Road Conditions – All Tarseal today.
From Westport we follow the rugged but beautiful West Coast South to Franz Josef Glacier.
The rugged West Coast is magical on a good day, as it twists and turns along the South Island.
We will probably have stopovers at Punakaiki, as well as most of the towns along the coast such as Greymouth and Hokitika.
Then it’s a stopover at Franz Josef where we will be under the shadow of Mt Cook.

DAY 13 Thursday 15th February
Franz Josef to Queenstown
Distance = 460km
Road Conditions – All Tarseal today
If weather and time permits we will continue through Haast along the coast to Jackson’s Bay.
Then it’s onto the only time we cross the Main Divide, and then follow the shores of Lake Wanaka, then through the Cardrona Valley, making a small detour up to the Possum Bourne Memorial, before the adventurers make then way to the adventure capital of the world, and a well deserved day off doing whatever they want.

DAY 14 Friday 16th February
REST DAY
Distance = 0km
Special Events –

DAY 15 Saturday 17th February
Queenstown to Invercargill
Distance = 250km
Road Conditions – All Tarseal today
An easy days riding to today with a direct route taken from Queenstown to Invercargill.
We want to fossick around in Invercargill looking for places of interest of Burt Munro.

DAY 16 Sunday 18th February
Invercargill to Dunedin
Distance = 250km
Road Conditions – All seal today,
Another easy days riding today, but the trend of the Coast continues.
However from today we change direction for the first time in 10 days! We head north
We follow the road through the Catlin’s which I understand is beautiful before we link back to the Main highway at Balclutha and onto Dunedin

DAY 17 Monday 19th February
Dunedin to Christchurch
Distance = 490km
Road Conditions – Approx 150km of gravel on todays ride (alternate route available)
Today we actually head inland after we pass through Oamaru.
We head over the Hakataramea and the McKenzies Pass’s, before the ride along the Canterbury Plains through Ashburton and arriving in Christchurch probably dusty and dirty and looking for a good shower.

DAY 18 Tuesday 20th February
REST DAY
Distance = 0km
Special Events –

DAY 19 Wednesday 21st February
Christchurch to Blenheim
Distance = 410km
Road Conditions – Approx 200km of gravel roads from Hanmer Springs to Blenheim
We leave Christchurch and the last of the South Island Cities, and then it’s onto Hanmer Springs.
Although the distance isn’t great the road we take is!! Molesworth Station, no petrol, no assistance and nothing until we almost reach the top of the South Island Blenheim, a quick trip to Picton and the end of the South Island leg.

[Ruralman]

Hi Zukin - hope things have been going well for your trip. Looking at our itinerary it looks like we will actually be in Franz Joseph on the same night - the Weds. We are booked in to the Glow Worm Cottages according to Jantars' excellent planning agenda. My mobile is 0274 384 964 if you want to ring or text on the day.
cheers
Bruce

[Zukin]

Hi Zukin - hope things have been going well for your trip. Looking at our itinerary it looks like we will actually be in Franz Joseph on the same night - the Weds. We are booked in to the Glow Worm Cottages according to Jantars' excellent planning agenda. My mobile is 0274 384 964 if you want to ring or text on the day.
cheers
Bruce

Hey there

That is fantastic
We should have a KB (get together there)?
Maybe a meal somewhere (fish n chip shop or pub meal)?

My cell is (027) 3446372

Will you be heading North or South after Franz?

Cheers Scott

[Ruralman]

Hey there

That is fantastic
We should have a KB (get together there)?
Maybe a meal somewhere (fish n chip shop or pub meal)?

My cell is (027) 3446372

Will you be heading North or South after Franz?

Cheers Scott

Next day will be South, over Haast , Lindis and Danseys (606km on Jantar's plan) and staying at Naesby (which is the end of our trip)

[Zukin]

Ok
We will be heading that way too :)
We will be going into Queenstown though via Cardrona

Sounds like it could be a good ride that day :)
Cheers Scott

[Ruralman]

Ok
We will be heading that way too :)
We will be going into Queenstown though via Cardrona

Sounds like it could be a good ride that day :)
Cheers Scott

I hope it will be a great day - but I will have my extra heavy duty Oringi rainsuit just in case!! Look forward to catching up.

[Jantar]

Hi Bruce,
If you guys are really going all out for the pass thing, there is the BIG pass about 6 km from the Little Pass ( On the Holden Road ). It's 3 km off the shingle on a legal paper road, but I know the farmer that owns the land ( Grays Hills Station ) so I don't think it would be a problem. It would only add about 10 min to the day, but one more pass all the same...... Give me a buzz on 0 3 688 5050 to discuss if interested
:-) Cheers, Stu
Great, My map shows Big Pass as a track rather than a road, but if you could get permission for us to do it, then it will be a better ride than just going to little Pass and turning around again. It will only add 15 - 20 mins onto the entire trip and most of that will be due to the 8 fence lines I see that we have to go through. Hopefully at least some of the gates will be open. :yes:

[Jantar]

Hi Zukin - hope things have been going well for your trip. Looking at our itinerary it looks like we will actually be in Franz Joseph on the same night - the Weds. We are booked in to the Glow Worm Cottages according to Jantars' excellent planning agenda. My mobile is 0274 384 964 if you want to ring or text on the day.
cheers
Bruce
We will also be in Blenheim on the night that you are in Picton. Only 25 minutes away. This may be another chance for a quick get together at meal time.

[warewolf]

The itinerary is well sorted.I can't make the whole thing but would be keen to hook up for the parts close to Nelson. Can you add day/dates and overnight stops to the itinerary, please? Looks like you're doing the whole thing in one day...reckon Plug'd be a starter! :dodge:

[Jantar]

I can't make the whole thing but would be keen to hook up for the parts close to Nelson. Can you add day/dates and overnight stops to the itinerary, please? Looks like you're doing the whole thing in one day...reckon Plug'd be a starter! :dodge:

Yes, we did consider doing it in a single day, but then considered that some of the adventure type bikes don't have such good headlights :shutup: . So here it is again:

Sunday 11th Feb: Leave Dunedin and head north taking the coastal route. Turn inland at Glenavy and head to Wahou Downs. Then over Meyers Pass into the Hakataramea Valley. Over Hakataramea Pass to Haldon Rd. A short detour 15 minutes to the south to Little Pass and possibly Big Pass, then U-turn and head to McKenzie Pass. Then onto Burkes Pass. From here its Highway 79 to Geraldine, the Main road to Rakaia, then the back roads to Banks Peninsular. Up to Gebbies Pass, then the Summit road to Dyers pass and Evans Pass and down to Sumner.

Monday 12th: From Christchurch its mainly main roads north to Waipara then via Weka Pass and Lewis Pass to Springs Juction. From here its north to Murchison and follow the Buller River to St Arnaud. A fairly straight but scenic road takes us to Blenheim.

Tuesday 13th: We take the back streets of Blenheim then on to Taylors Pass. Out to Dashwood then Redwood Pass to get onto SH1. We cross Weld Pass and Dashwood Pass then turn southwest towards the very scenic Molesworth. Over Wards pass then down towards Hamner. Saxton Pass is also in this area, but its on a No Exit road, and now that DOC have taken over we may not get permission for that one. Jacks Pass and Jollies Pass loop then into Hamner.

Wednesday 14th: Back over Weka Pass (yes we are back tracking a road we have already ridden) and down to Amberly then to Whiterock, Okuku Pass and Lees pass to Oxford. Then Porters Pass and Arthurs Pass to the west coast and down to the Glaciers.

Thursday 15th: Through the scenic west coast to Haast, then inland and over Haast Pass to Makarora. Follow Lake Wanaka, then Lake Hawea, and some back roads I know of to Tarras. Over Lindis Pass to Omarama, then Ahuriri Pass, and follow the Waitaki Hydro Lakes to Duntroon. Turn south to Cross Danseys Pass, and on to Danseys Pass pub and Naseby.

Friday 16th: No more passes, but 25 covered in 5 days, and the 6th day to get home again.

[miSTa]

Not going to be able to ride with you at all but would be great to catch on the Sunday night in chch

[Ruralman]

Not going to be able to ride with you at all but would be great to catch on the Sunday night in chch

Look forward to that mate, and to meeting a few of the other adventure riders from ChCh I haven't met yet. Its a bit of a bugger that work gets in the way of real life sometimes aye!!

[miSTa]

Look forward to that mate, and to meeting a few of the other adventure riders from ChCh I haven't met yet. Its a bit of a bugger that work gets in the way of real life sometimes aye!!
Yep, work is a pain in the ars...neck, pays the bills though. The chch adv riders arn't a bad bunch though the ones that live within a 100km radius of me have some dodgy characteristics ;)

[far queue]

The chch adv riders arn't a bad bunch though the ones that live within a 100km radius of me have some dodgy characteristics ;):Oi: :2guns: :ar15: :motu: :finger: :moon: :kick:

[miSTa]

:Oi: :2guns: :ar15: :motu: :finger: :moon: :kick:
Guilty conscience FQ? That was a typo anyway - should've been 10km

[far queue]

I for one would appreciate a local guide when we do the Okuku - Lees section on the Wednesday 14th.


I would like to but have this thing called work.
I know that you will enjoy the trip around the Lees Valley.

Depending on if we get a summer longer than two days.What he said. I'll be sure to catch up with you guys while you're here though.

[far queue]

Guilty conscience FQ? That was a typo anyway - should've been 10kmStill applies - I'm within 10km of you - mate!

[NighthawkNZ]

I am still planning to ride to Oamaru (on Sunday 11th Feb) cant do the full ride as verk verk verk... verk sux :(

[warewolf]

Thanks.


Monday 12th: to Blenheim.This will be my only chance of catching up with you fellahs, maybe I can scoot over the Maungatapu Saddle to dine with you in Blenheim?

Really looks like an excellent adventure :rockon:

[NordieBoy]

That sounds do-able for me too. :)

[SDU]

The chch adv riders arn't a bad bunch though the ones that live within a 100km radius of me have some dodgy characteristics ;)

There was nothing wrong with the Chch adv crew until someone bought a BMW along:dodge:

[RedKLR650]

Sunday 11th Feb: Leave Dunedin and head north taking the coastal route. Turn inland at Glenavy and head to Wahou Downs. Then over Meyers Pass into the Hakataramea Valley. Over Hakataramea Pass to Haldon Rd. A short detour 15 minutes to the south to Little Pass and possibly Big Pass, then U-turn and head to McKenzie Pass. Then onto Burkes Pass. From here its................

Hi all, me and a mate on a Africa Twin did the Meyers Pass / Haka Pass / McKenzie Pass thing during a mental health day yesterday ( gotta have some excuse for taking time off work :-) Anyway, a good place to stop for a photo opportunity or just a breather ( as you will have left Dunedin a few hrs earlier ) is 10.5km in from the eastern end of the shingle road on Myers Pass. This is about a km before the stone bridge as there is no-where there to stop there really except for on the road. The place I mention is also a good place for a headcount, as between the start and that point, there are a lot of blind corners with VERY BIG drops and bluffs and there is no such thing as Armco through here, and it would be easy for someone to have a moment and to have shot over the edge and no-one would know it had happened unless following closely, so I seriously reccomend a head count at that point.....

Another thing, at the bottom end of the Haka Pass they are replacing all the powerpoles damaged in the big snow of June '06 so there is a lot of shingle on many of the corners, also once you get past the past Cattle Creek there are some knarly potholes but nothing axlebreaking as long as you're alert. All of the fords through to the Haldon Road are low ( Under 250mm ) at present, but that's obviously weather dependant. Most of the way is covered by very shallow or no shingle, so this allows for fast low dust riding. I intend to ride this route again sometime next week with the GPS to note any major things you should look out for.... Cheers, Stu
A couple of shots attached
P.S. We also ran into "Shiner " the girl from Welly on the Beemer 650F in the Haka :scooter:

[Ruralman]

Hi all, me and a mate on a Africa Twin did the Meyers Pass / Haka Pass / McKenzie Pass rs, Stu
A couple of shots attached
P.S. We also ran into "Shiner " the girl from Welly on the Beemer 650F in the Haka :scooter:

Is that Dan Maurice the pom whose doing a Sth Island tour? If so I'm expecting him here next week. Spoke to Shiner and it sounds like she really appreciated having someone to ride with through there, especially through the fords.

Are you joining the Passes trip on the 11th for this bit?

[RedKLR650]

Are you joining the Passes trip on the 11th for this bit?
Hi there Ruralman, for sure I'll be there. As mentioned earlier, I'll probably do the local ones again next week ( Myers / Haka / McKenzie next week with the GPS to alert you of any major things to watch out for..... ) If only this bloody rain would stop..... Stu:scooter:

[mickeyboy]

Haka is fine at the moment

[Transalper]

Is that Dan Maurice the pom whose doing a Sth Island tour?...That's not Dan in those photos.

[RedKLR650]

That's not Dan in those photos.

Sorry, I should have answered this the other day, the guy in my photos on the Africa Twin is Gary Crowley from Timaru. It's not Dan......

:scooter:

[RedKLR650]

Haka is fine at the moment

Have you been down this way playing Mickeyboy :done:

[warewolf]

Had a trip to Hanmer over the weekend as a sighting trip for the Rainbow Rage.

Saturday we went to St Arnaud, then Rainbow (Island Pass) then Jacks Pass. The northern 20km of the Rainbow road has been graded and has loose rock spread all over it - not very pleasant two up but would be a hoot solo - you could be sideways the whole time. South of that stuff it was very bumpy with unpredictable potholes that were difficult to see.

Sunday out via Jollies Pass, the Molesworth (Wards Pass) and had to go Taylors Pass to Blenheim: nice bit of road. I noted that there is another no-exit Pass on Taylors Pass Rd (north-east of Taylors Pass?) which would increase your tally.

All up, not a bad weekend jaunt, 537km with 250km gravel, although I would probably do it the other way around next time: the Molesworth is by far the longest leg and includes 160km of gravel (minus a few short bursts of seal).

Thanks for the inspiration, Jantar! :rockon:

btw were you going to do Island Pass? It is 49km from Hanmer, by my notes, say 39km from Jacks Pass Road.

[Jantar]

Thanks for the report Werewolf,

The Rainbow road actually crosses Island Saddle, so its not on our agenda. According to my Topo maps, Island Pass is around 1.8 km southeast of Island saddle, and it does have a track marked to it, but not a road.

[warewolf]

The Rainbow road actually crosses Island Saddle, so its not on our agenda. According to my Topo maps, Island Pass is around 1.8 km southeast of Island saddle, and it does have a track marked to it, but not a road.I thought the sign said Pass, and with your ride in mind I was looking out for the saddle vs pass thing. Guess I'm going to have to go back for another look! :innocent:

[Ruralman]

I thought the sign said Pass, and with your ride in mind I was looking out for the saddle vs pass thing. Guess I'm going to have to go back for another look! :innocent:

I think that no exit pass off the Molesworth road was Saxton Pass - Jantar and I looked at that one as well - its on some maps and not others. At one point we had agreed that we would use Kiwimaps Road Atlas of NZ as our guide as to whether something was in or out - a couple have slipped in that aren't mentioned in these maps but by and large we were going to be either going over them anyway or going very close to them.

Look forward to catching up up there somewhere

[Jantar]

I thought the sign said Pass, and with your ride in mind I was looking out for the saddle vs pass thing. Guess I'm going to have to go back for another look! :innocent:


Well what better excuse to ride the rainbow? :D

[warewolf]

I think that no exit pass off the Molesworth road was Saxton PassJust to clarify, the no-exit pass I mentioned was off Taylors Pass.

[Jantar]

Just to clarify, the no-exit pass I mentioned was off Taylors Pass.
That is Maxwell Pass. The No Exit road goes to Maxwell Pass Station, the Pass it self is further in and does not have a road over it.

[Zukin]

Just wanting to tidy up a few loose ends before we leave...

So to confirm
You will be in Picton on the evening of the 14th Feb?

and

In Franz Josef on the evening of the 14th Feb?

I have your cell numbers Ruralman and Jantar:yes:
I am looking forward to catching up and hearing of your adventure

Cheers Scott

[Jantar]

Picton on the 12th and Franz on the 14th. Enjoy your ride and we'll catch up along the way. :scooter:

[RedKLR650]

So here it is again:
Sunday 11th Feb: Leave Dunedin and head north taking the coastal route. Turn inland at Glenavy and head to Wahou Downs. Then over Meyers Pass into the Hakataramea Valley. Over Hakataramea Pass to Haldon Rd..........

Hi team,

The Haka Pass could prove VERY interesting this weekend if the weather forecast is to be believed.....

http://www.metvuw.co.nz/forecast/forecast.php?type=rain&region=nzsi

If this holds true ( and from experience, this site is pretty reliable ) then you should be looking at these fords running at near maximum capacity by Sunday..... :Oops: :scooter: :whocares:

[Ruralman]

Hi team,

The Haka Pass could prove VERY interesting this weekend if the weather forecast is to be believed.....

http://www.metvuw.co.nz/forecast/forecast.php?type=rain&region=nzsi

If this holds true ( and from experience, this site is pretty reliable ) then you should be looking at these fords running at near maximum capacity by Sunday..... :Oops: :scooter: :whocares:

At least it looks like Sunday will be fine, maybe a little windy, and Tuesday looks good too. I would have thought those fords on that road will go up and down pretty quickly at this time of year. That weather system is a short sharp one rather than a long extended event so hopefully it won't pose any problems. It might make it a bit wet to do that off road pass near Little Pass that you were going to lead us through though.

[oldrider]

At least it looks like Sunday will be fine, maybe a little windy, and Tuesday looks good too. I would have thought those fords on that road will go up and down pretty quickly at this time of year. That weather system is a short sharp one rather than a long extended event so hopefully it won't pose any problems. It might make it a bit wet to do that off road pass near Little Pass that you were going to lead us through though.

It shouldn't matter if it's wet, gravel roads are always so much nicer to traverse when they are wet and there's no bloody dust!.
The fords on the roads around here are pretty low at the moment but the bigger rivers have still got quite a lot of water in them.
The big rivers have got a thing called a bridge over them, they are quite handy when the water level is up a bit, if no one is looking, give the bridges a try! :dodge:
Cheers John.

[Jantar]

That weather forecast looks perfect. The front goes through thursday night/friday morning, and as its a NW cold front, the effect in the central part of the island will be minimal. Even if we did get the 1mm per hour which the isohyets suggest then any increase would have diminished completely by sunday.

I'll get a new detailed long range forecast tomorrow with updates right through till Saturday.

RedKLR650, did you manage to get permission for us to add Big Pass to the ride?

[Jantar]

Its looking good. The latest long range forecast has a weak fast moving front crossing the island from south west to northeast on friday. It wont add any significant water to any streams or rivers and may help to dampen the dust. On monday there is a 50% chance of a weak front moving up the west coast, then it looks like fine weather for the rest of week. :sunny:

[Ruralman]

Its looking good. The latest long range forecast has a weak fast moving front crossing the island from south west to northeast on friday. It wont add any significant water to any streams or rivers and may help to dampen the dust. On monday there is a 50% chance of a weak front moving up the west coast, then it looks like fine weather for the rest of week. :sunny:

Sounds brilliant. I bought an Oxford Sports pannier set today to help cart the gear. Looks like it will do the job nicely in combination with the topbox. Tempted to leave the tankbag behind but it is nice to have the map right there to follow, and handy for camera, lunch etc.
Bit nerve wracking waiting to see if my new front tyre is going to turn up on Friday - if it doesn't I'll be OK with the one thats on it but will have to go carefully if we get some greasy backroads.
Taking my boys to the Crusty Demons on Sat night in Dunedin - going to be a bit late home unfortunately but I'll be getting pretty excited so wouldn't have slept that well anyway!!

[Jantar]

Bit nerve wracking waiting to see if my new front tyre is going to turn up on Friday - if it doesn't I'll be OK with the one thats on it but will have to go carefully if we get some greasy backroads.!!
I had the bike serviced on monday and my new front tyre is going on tomorrow. :yes: So I'm all set.

[oldrider]

Hey, it's almost time to go on the big passes ride, if I don't see you guy's (and I hope to somewhere) have a great ride! :ride: Cheers John.

[Jantar]

Thanks John, We'll be passing close to your area on Sunday morning, and right past your place on Thursday afternoon. Keep an eye out for us, and join in for part of it if you can. :yes:

Weather is looking great. The main front has passed through, and the entire next week only has a 10% chance of a further front. If anything it may be too hot for some areas. :sunny: :sunny: :sunny:

[RedKLR650]

RedKLR650, did you manage to get permission for us to add Big Pass to the ride?

I was away today but farmer left a message on my phone tonight asking to call him tomorrow

Presume he's curious as to vague numbers of bikes before giving permission ?

Any idea of how many ( a rough anywhere between ? and ? would do )

Cheers, Stu:scooter:

[Jantar]

I'm not sure exactly how many will be joining us for just that section, but with the riders doing the whole trip, plus 2 or 3 day riders, I'd expect 6 or 7 bikes on that section.

We have 7 riders on 6 bikes doing the whole trip, but 2 of those are meeting us in Picton and doing the fist part of the ride by themselves on their way back north. They won't be doing Big Pass.

[RedKLR650]

I'm not sure exactly how many will be joining us for just that section, but with the riders doing the whole trip, plus 2 or 3 day riders, I'd expect 6 or 7 bikes on that section.
We have 7 riders on 6 bikes doing the whole trip, but 2 of those are meeting us in Picton and doing the fist part of the ride by themselves on their way back north. They won't be doing Big Pass.

No problem, so including me for Sunday, that would be roughly 6 for big pass. I'll let you know tomorrow ( oops, today now.... ) but doesn't sound like it's going to be a problem :-) Cheers, Stu:scooter:

[fleethaul]

Looking forward to the passes ride.
Had a run through haka pass/te akatarawa roads
last week, with Oldrider. Had planned passes ride to be the swansong of my old chain and sprockets until the chain parted company 3 bends from the gate
at the top of the haka pass, just on dark. Still as they say the adventure starts when things stop going to plan. Took an hour to get things going again.
With new chain, sprockets and tyre fitted yesterday looking for a great ride tomorrow.

Jeff

[timg]

No problem, so including me for Sunday, that would be roughly 6 for big pass. I'll let you know tomorrow ( oops, today now.... ) but doesn't sound like it's going to be a problem :-) Cheers, Stu:scooter:

Hi Folks, XF650 (Struan) & I from are planning to meet up with you folks at Oamaru. We'll be at Oamaru at 10am unless we hear otherwise. 027 3490527. Cheers, Tim



It would be Sunday - we do about 700kms I think - from Dunedin right through Haka etc and Port hills passes to ChCh. Its our biggest day. You could maybe meet up with us in Oamaru and ride through the Myers - Burkes section and leave us around Geraldine.
Cheers
Bruce


I would expect us to be refueling in Oamaru around 10:00 am. Carry a packed lunch and plenty of liquids for the first days ride. We'll stop for lunch somewhere between Hakataramea Pass and McKenzie Pass.

[PLUG]

Thinking of meeting you guys around Taitapu some where ... there is a short cut (paper Rd) between 2 gravel roads (Ahuriri Rd) that you will probable ride past on your way into Gebbies ... can run you through there if you want, about 8k all up.

[fleethaul]

Hi Folks, XF650 (Struan) & I from are planning to meet up with you folks at Oamaru. We'll be at Oamaru at 10am unless we hear otherwise. 027 3490527. Cheers, Tim

Hi Tim, Look for the blue F650 Dakar, on Thames Highway, Oamaru, in front of the dairy with the large ice cream cone on the veranda. The group are picking me up there.

Jeff
021 972272

[RedKLR650]

Hi Tim, Look for the blue F650 Dakar, on Thames Highway, Oamaru, in front of the dairy with the large ice cream cone on the veranda. The group are picking me up there.
Jeff 021 972272

Actually Jeff, after a phone conversation this morning, timg & XF650 ( both from Ashvegas ) are now meeting me here in Timaru where we are going the fun shingle back way to Waimate to meet you guys at the Waihou Downs monument corner at between 10.30 and 11 :-)

Cheers, Stu 0274 342 372:scooter:

[RedKLR650]

RedKLR650, did you manage to get permission for us to add Big Pass to the ride?

Heard from farmers wife this morning, it turns out last lot of people through there was a group of cyclists with no permission who left every gate open :-(((((( ( He knew it was mountain bikes because fof the tracks and the gloves they mistakenly left behind ) Anyay, he's going to call m to discuss, so should know by the morning. Cheers, Stu:scooter:

[Transalper]

it turns out last lot of people through there was a group of cyclists with no permission who left every gate open I just don't get people who do that sort of selfish ignorant thing.:no:

[SDU]

Have a good trip guys! Hope the weather is good.
Hope to see you in Chch at the Marine (see how I get on with work) Do you have an est of arrival / a time to meet with other KB'ers

[NordieBoy]

I have just this second clicked why there was a "?Motorbike" entry in my diary for Monday.

I put the question marks in if they are not confirmed yet and couldn't for the life of me work out what this one was for.

So I've got 3 jobs booked for that day :(

I could head over at about 4pm though...

[Shiner]

Hi guys. And especially Ruralman. Thanks for the birthday message. Wish I was down your way doing the ride too, even though Red kLR thinks I cant keep up, i have had a bit more practice since he last seen me. All the best for the rest of your trip. have a great time.
shiner BMW

[NighthawkNZ]

My report of the day trip with the South Island Passes Tour
http://quantumillusions.com/biker/?q=node/88

[oldrider]

My report of the day trip with the South Island Passes Tour
http://quantumillusions.com/biker/?q=node/88

So, you came right to my front door and I didn't even get a hello out of you! Shame on you guy's! :nono: John.

PS: Thanks for posting the progress report on the pass riders! Where were the pic"?

[NighthawkNZ]

So, you came right to my front door and I didn't even get a hello out of you! Shame on you guy's! :nono: John.

PS: Thanks for posting the progress report on the pass riders! Where were the pic"?

:doh:

ummmm double :doh:

[RedKLR650]

So, you came right to my front door and I didn't even get a hello out of you! Shame on you guy's! :nono: John.
PS: Thanks for posting the progress report on the pass riders! Where were the pic"?

Hi John,

Sorry, I took pix on the middle part of the ride yesterday, and was asked to set up a new thread for the trips progress. Link to the new thread and the photos is here.

Regards, Stu ( Sorry we missed you :dodge: )

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=43887

[oldrider]

Hi John,

Sorry, I took pix on the middle part of the ride yesterday, and was asked to set up a new thread for the trips progress. Link to the new thread and the photos is here.

Regards, Stu ( Sorry we missed you :dodge: )

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=43887

It was not you guy's on the Passes Tour that missed me, it was the Dunedin support riders that came up to Otematata after you had gone on your way!

I was unable to come down to see you guy's off because of family commitments on Sunday, mom and I were going to meet you and ride across Myers Pass and see you guy's off over the Haka Pass but we got waylaid unfortunately.

We are hoping to hook up with you on the way back through here.

Nighthawk and company don't know where we live so I was just :Pokey: at them because I was disappointed not to see them up here when they were so close!

Look after my mate Jeff, he's a new KB'r too now (but a long time rider) and good guy to ride with. Keep having fun! :yes: Cheers John.

[NighthawkNZ]

Nighthawk and company don't know where we live so I was just :Pokey: at them because I was disappointed not to see them up here when they were so close!


well I new you were up that way, but no I don't know actually where... :doh:

[Virago]

It was not you guy's on the Passes Tour that missed me, it was the Dunedin support riders that came up to Otematata after you had gone on your way!........

Yeah sorry John, I didn't make the connection either - we were looking for a coffee in the area too!:dodge:

We'll come through that way again soon.......!:o

[fleethaul]

When people ride some of the lesser known Banks Peninsula roads for the
first time it always surprises me how much something we in ChCh take for granted affects them.

pics
Gebbies Pass
Above Gebbies pass, on summit road, looking down the harbour.
Al approves of the road and view.

[fleethaul]

still getting the hang of this

[GSX-RJIM]

You lucky buggers, wish I could ride with you. Maybe next year, as I'm buying a V-Strom.