Northern Exposure Tour Jan '08

[Qkchk]

It's that time of the year again, no sooner we get through Christmas then it's 2008!! Qkchk and Qkkid have decided to announce the Northern Exposure Tour '08 for the Auckland Anniversary Weekend. (26th - 28th Jan 08):niceone:


What do we plan to do???
Ride from Auckland up the West Coast via Waipoua Forest and Opononi to Kaitaia then to the Lighthouse @ Cape Reinga and then back down the East Coast via the Bay of Islands over 3 days. (With a bit of exploring in between)


The Tour Itineray:

Saturday 26th Jan
- Meet @ Westgate Shell, head up SH16 to Wellsford
- Join SH1 to Brynderwyn take Maungaturoto turn off along SH12
- Pass through Dargaville, WAIPOUA FOREST (Can stop to see giant Kauri tree if need be) and Opononi.
- Lunch can be at either Dargaville or Opononi depends on time.
- Take the Vehicle Ferry from Rawene across to Kohukohu
- Rejoin SH1 and shoot throught the Maungamuka Gorge to Kaitaia (Voted one of the best bit of twistes in NZ)
- Time permitting and sore bums, could go out to Ahipara for a looksee etc..
- Finish up for the first day @ Waipapakauri Ramp, Ninety Mile Beach Park over a couple of cold ones. :drinknsin


Sunday 27th Jan
- Head North along SH1N past Houhora, Te Kao, to Waitiki Landing for Breakfast. (Very fast and beautiful roads)
- If you want to see the Lighthouse (it is worth it) continue the ride up to the North Cape Lighthouse however the last 20kms IS IN GRAVEL! If you do not wish to ride in gravel you can stay @ Waitiki Landing for a cuppa or an extended brunch...
- For those who have not been up to the cape, take the oppotunity to ride to the end of New Zealand, you cant go any further than the lighthouse! You can see where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. On a clear day you can also see the Three Kings Islands.
- On return we drop in @ Houhora (Wagener Museum for a icecream) and head back down to Awanui to drop into the Ancient Kauri Kingdom (awesome walkthrough staircase inside a Kauri tree) www.ancientkauri.co.nz
- Time permitting we could do a couple of more rides ... options open...maybe the Fish Shop @ Mangonui for a late lunch...
- Ride back to Ninety Mile Beach Park for a drink or 5 and then settle in for a Lamb on the Spit Smorgasboard (Just ask Qkkid what he thinks of it!:drool:)

Monday 28th
- Depart Waipapakauri Ramp head south on SH1 turn off @ Awanui onto SH10
- Travel the Beautiful and picturesque East Coast down through Taipa, Coopers Beach, Cable Bay
- Stop in @ Mangonui Fish Shop for the best seafood and Fish 'n Chips in the area (We could do this on Sat or Sun instead if time permits....)
- Continue to head south via East Coast's beautifuls roads through Kaeo, Kerikeri, take a slight detour through Haruru Falls to Paihia, then past Opua to Kawakawa.
- Rejoin SH1 to Whangarei then take the Waipu turnoff...... Waipu Cove, Mangawai back to Wellsford.
- Crusie from Wellsford down for a Cuppa Tea @ The Maha's in Walkworth
- Can go either way (SH1 or SH16 via Woodcocks Rd) but would recommend SH16 due to Long weekend traffic and WOODCOCKS Road ;) .....
- Fin.

This will be a MEDIUM PACED RIDE (open road crusing @ 120 if the coast is clear.... not warp speed, it IS touring not a trackday or the Coro Loop...:bleh:) I have included a map so you can roughly see where the ride will be going.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:
You will be responsible for your own cabin or tent site bookings, if you are on a budget why not get a bigger cabin and share the costs with others? Tent sites are available and are dirt cheap! When you book, can you please also make a booking for the Lamb on the Spit Smorgasboard (you wont regret it!:drool:) You can have book your accomodation for the 26th and 27th Jan with http://www.ninetymilebeach.co.nz/ or ring them on 0800-367-719. Me and Qkkid haven't booked yet but will be Mid-Nov.

In general the long weekend up north is fine weather, so lets hope nothing changes... The ride will be going ahead rain or shine.....:sunny: Please show that you are attending by registering HERE. (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&ea=attend&e=1434)

For those who do not know us you can read about previous road trips we have conducted - Northland Exposure Tour '06 (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=22726) and write up HERE (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=23974) and KB Gathering Queens Birthday '07 (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=46652)

[Pumba]

Yea ok you can count me in. Whatever I had on that weekend I now dont.

Now who is keen on sharing a cabin:whistle:, honest I only snore after I have been drinking.

[NinjaNanna]

Yea ok you can count me in. Whatever I had on that weekend I now dont.

Ahh now that's the spirit - might take you up on the cabin just need to find out if I'm going to be 2up or not

[Mom]

The Tour Itineray:


Sadly we will have to decline the offer. We get back from camping at Ruakaka on the Saturday and on the Sunday we have a little one to get to the airport and a wedding anniversay to celebrate too, but.........

On Monday we should be at home, so.......want to add a pit stop at ours to your itineray? Just a thought. Weather will be beaut then, I promise!

[Qkchk]

On Monday we should be at home, so.......want to add a pit stop at ours to your itineray? Just a thought. Weather will be beaut then, I promise!

Cuppa Tea at the Maha's just been added! :wari:

Shame you cant attend :cry:

[Laava]

[QUOTE=Mom;1270470]on the Sunday we have a little one to get to the airport QUOTE]

SNAP!! I have to drop my ozzie son off at the airport to fly back to Brisbane. Maybe next morning I could shoot up to Mangonui for F&C breakfast! Love that shop, tide in you can see stingrays and sharks under you. I'll watch this thread then!

[Qkkid]

bumpty bump

[trump-lady]

This trip sounds awesome.... Im def in. I dont mind sharing a cabin as long as its female friendly lol eg. no ball scratching, burps in my face, excessive snoring, nakedness unless your built like a spartan and have something to look at. Prefer someone else to organize and just tell me how much and I will pay in advance.... roll on Jan :)

[steveb64]

The ride sounds like fun! If the Duc's done by then - I'll be there... :woohoo:

Errm - A couple of suggestions?

Day 1: Instead of turning off to Mangamuka after the Kohukohu ferry, head straight on, and go up through Broadwood to Ahipara, then into Kaitaia. The roads been getting the big rebuild - but it was started from the Ahipara end - so if it's bad (it's sealed, just ROUGH in places), it'll get better further up. Someone may want to do a reconnaissance?

Day 2: After the Cape and back, do the run down the East Coast, then turn off at Kerikeri/airport roundabout, past KC airport, continue on (nice road, reas. good condition) through to Okaihau (SH1), then up SH1 over Mangamukas. WATCH OUT ON THE MANGAMUKAS - by this time (end Jan) of the year, the cheap tar they use on the roads is melting, and they dump fine river shingle/grit all over the roads! The Mangamukas is notoriously bad for it!

Day 3: If you're going past Opua, why not take the ferry to Russell, and then take the coast road down to Whangarei? ...it's fixed now! And a bloody good ride (but REALLY twisty:D)!

Cough - and the fish and chips at Mangonui may be good (can't vouch for recently) - but they're about THE most expensive in the country! Because they went all upmarket to capture the tourists, their prices went up accordingly. :( I still remember the days when it was 'just a chippie' with prices to suit. Mmmmm. Breakfast of fresh cooked snapper. Mmmmm. Last time we were there, they wanted something like $25kg for snapper, then the same again to cook it fresh! Fcuk THAT!

Should be a good ride! :beer:

[McDuck]

Is there anybody in AK i can stay the 25th and night of the 29th with? I will be traveling up form prob. napier so it would be to much for the end days. Also anybody want to share a cabin with me?

[EJK]

Can I come? I'm on a 225cc Single Cylinder :sweatdrop

[Qkchk]

:wari:
Can I come? I'm on a 225cc Single Cylinder :sweatdrop

Well you dont seem to have too much trouble keeping up with us in the ATNR. Do ya reckon you could ride for 3 days in a row 300-400kms each day? Ride pace will be anywhere from 110-130kph.

[EJK]

Yep I can harden up :yes:
PM me more details by time to time (plus the prices too)
I might be keen :yes:

[geoffm]

I will be in - this was such a good trip last time.
Wonder if I could affod the fuel bill if I take the RG500, and if it has enough tank range...?
Geoff

[Grahameeboy]

It's my Daughter's Birthday that weekend but may be able to make the Maha's for tea

[Qkchk]

Here are some pics from the '06 Tour

Try looking HERE. (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/photopost/search.php?searchid=3736)

[tide]

mmm thinking about this... will see closer to the time... :) might have a new toy then too... well here is hoping...

[McDuck]

We will need to book acomidation soonish, wount it fill up with aucklanders?

[EJK]

Just saw the photos; GSX-R, CBR, R1 etc etc
Guess I'll be the smallest bike again lol

I'll make history :yes: I'm in!

[McDuck]

Just saw the photos; GSX-R, CBR, R1 etc etc
Guess I'll be the smallest bike again lol

I'll make history :yes: I'm in!

Lol dont worry we can be on small bikes together :hug:

[Qkchk]

Me and Qkkid havent booked yet, so youre still in for a chance. I havent checked availability but if theres any issues there are plenty other places to stay.


Will let you guys know the costs and what avail early next December!

[McDuck]

Me and Qkkid havent booked yet, so youre still in for a chance. I havent checked availability but if theres any issues there are plenty other places to stay.


Will let you guys know the costs and what avail early next December!

Cool by me :)

[geoffm]

One less cabin available. Now to get permission for the weekend off!
Geoff

[Qkchk]

Decided to get things moving along, so I rung up the Ninety Mile Top Ten and booked me and Qkkid a cabin. Had a quick chat to them about what was available..........


As from today there are still 12 cabins left
There are cabins available just for a couple OR
Most common size is a 3 or 4 person cabin
One particular cabin is up to 8 people - Good way to cut down on costs.........
So if you want a place to sleep, suggest you talk to someone who is going and see if you can get a cabin together - The more, the merrier!
Prize for the person who decides to bring a tent and sleep in it instead of a cabin! :lol:
Me and Qkkid will be going regardless of the weather :sunny: - we are not scared of the rain :p
Prices vary but here is a rough indicator (http://www.ninetymilebeach.co.nz/htmfiles/roomsfm.htm)
For more info, best you call TOLL FREE on 0800 367 719 or look at their website (http://www.ninetymilebeach.co.nz/index.html)
You can also BOOK ONLINE (http://www.ninetymilebeach.co.nz/htmfiles/bookingfm.htm)


As said in the very first post - I am not your personal booking agent. If you wish to come along please do your own bookings! (Ive made it easy enough for ya)

Can't wait til the end of January! PS Dont forget to mention about the Smorgasboard! I forgot so I better send them an email........:wacko:

[Qkchk]

Just had a question.........

Q: How many kms will we be doing?

A: Lets says an approximate of about 1100kms for the whole weekend. Its about 350kms to Kaitaia via the west coast on day one. Its a 350kms round trip up to the lighthouse and back on day two and about 400kms back home down the east coast on day three.

[Qkchk]

Come on guys, you better start getting your cabin booked before they all go!

[McDuck]

Yes i had better get booking.... So who wants to go halfs with me?

[vifferman]

Awesome looking ride! :niceone:
The vifferbabe organised a very similar ride for us at Easter 2006, except we did it over 5 days, and did a whole bunch more sightseeing and stuff. Too long really, and we could've cut some stuff out.

[Qkchk]

Awesome looking ride! :niceone:
The vifferbabe organised a very similar ride for us at Easter 2006, except we did it over 5 days, and did a whole bunch more sightseeing and stuff. Too long really, and we could've cut some stuff out.

So I take it youre coming then? ;) ;)

[Pumba]

Yes i had better get booking.... So who wants to go halfs with me?

Happy to go in with ya, would be better if we could get a few more togeather and reduce the cost further (Ninga Nanna, calling Ninga Nanna is there anybody out there, have you sorted your shit yet).

[NinjaNanna]

Happy to go in with ya, would be better if we could get a few more togeather and reduce the cost further (Ninga Nanna, calling Ninga Nanna is there anybody out there, have you sorted your shit yet).

No not yet, I'm coming but haven't sorted out the family situation yet - I'll take care of that tonight and get back to you.

Is there anyone else in Auckland that has a partner/kids that want to come but would rather go by cage? There's 2 spare seats in with my wife and daughter if wanted

Cheers

Shane

[Pumba]

No not yet, I'm coming but haven't sorted out the family situation yet - I'll take care of that tonight and get back to you.

Is there anyone else in Auckland that has a partner/kids that want to come but would rather go by cage? There's 2 spare seats in with my wife and daughter if wanted

Cheers

Shane

Sweet as Shane, its easy for me just to up and go where and when I want with no one else but me to worry about. No doubt a family takes a little more organisiation.

[gunnyrob]

Hi Pumbaa, as discussed, I'm happy to share a cabin. When you do the bookings, I'd be happy to do the lamb on a spit thing too.

Should be a good weekend.

[NinjaNanna]

Happy to go in with ya, would be better if we could get a few more togeather and reduce the cost further (Ninga Nanna, calling Ninga Nanna is there anybody out there, have you sorted your shit yet).

Alright count me in to share a cabin with ya hooligans. Who ever does the booking (Pumba, Mcduck5n? ) PM me your bank details and I'll transfer some cash over to you.

Also count me in for the Lamb on the Spit.

Cheers

NN

[Qkchk]

Alright count me in to share a cabin with ya hooligans.


Excellent............ (said in a Mr Burns accent)

[McDuck]

Alright count me in to share a cabin with ya hooligans. Who ever does the booking (Pumba, Mcduck5n? ) PM me your bank details and I'll transfer some cash over to you.

Also count me in for the Lamb on the Spit.

Cheers

NN

geoffm has a few spare beds in his, MP him :)

[geoffm]

geoffm has a few spare beds in his, MP him :)

Have beds left in the cabin I have booked. First in gets the comfy bed, and I was first :-)

[NinjaNanna]

Have beds left in the cabin I have booked. First in gets the comfy bed, and I was first :-)

Hi Geoff

I'll take one of the beds, can you please PM me your bank details and the ammount and I'll get some dosh too you.

Cheers
Shane

[Kittyhawk]

Is there anybody in AK i can stay the 25th and night of the 29th with? I will be traveling up form prob. napier so it would be to much for the end days. Also anybody want to share a cabin with me?

Spare bed here you're welcome to it when you are in Akl. If you snore, then be expected to wake up to a cold wet flannel slapped around ya face!

[geoffm]

Ok, in my cabin, we have me, ninja nana, mcduck5n, which leaves 1 bed I think - better check the size... Pumba - You in?
Geoff

[McDuck]

Spare bed here you're welcome to it when you are in Akl. If you snore, then be expected to wake up to a cold wet flannel slapped around ya face!

Cool. I dont thiinkk i snore but it is a bit hard to know lol
Thanks again.
Will PM closer to the time.
Thanks

[Kittyhawk]

Cool. I dont thiinkk i snore but it is a bit hard to know lol
Thanks again.
Will PM closer to the time.
Thanks

Kool, I look forward to meeting you too. My place is a bikers pad so you wont be alone for long lol

[Qkchk]

Anyone else keen for the 3-day excursion should be making plans NOW and booking very shortly -


The ride is only 3 Weekends away!

[wraith]

Is anyone just doing the Saturday part of the ride up to Dargaville??Or maybe as far as the forest??

[Qkchk]

Is anyone just doing the Saturday part of the ride up to Dargaville??Or maybe as far as the forest??

If anyone wants to do a part way ride on any of the days, your are very welcome to join us........... :niceone:

[McDuck]

:weep::weep::weep::weep::weep::weep::weep::weep:

It looks like i am out. Not enough cash with the speedo cable on the 250 braking and me moving a few days after i would have gotten back :(
Have fun guys. :no:

[wraith]

Might be joining you for the full ride after all. I've just emailed about a cabin for me and one of by kids so fingers crossed the've got something left.:woohoo:

[wraith]

Just to give us an idea, and as you went on previous northern tours. What sort of budget are we looking at for the weekend? Just a ball park figure.:confused

[Qkchk]

It looks like i am out. Not enough cash with the speedo cable on the 250 braking and me moving a few days after i would have gotten back :(
Have fun guys. :no:

Shit happens............ Maybe next time?


Just to give us an idea, and as you went on previous northern tours. What sort of budget are we looking at for the weekend? Just a ball park figure.:confused

Good to see you have managed to give the handbrake the slip! ;) Im sure there will be cabins still available right up to last moment.

As for costs - Hmmmm

Lets say a ROUGH estimate:

Petrol for 1200kms @ $1.80 liter (Price of fuel up there is roughly 5cents dearer per liter than Auckland) LOOK HERE (http://www.pricewatch.co.nz/Default.aspx?lyr=1&price_type=avg)for the lastest pricing. We are going to be doing on average 400kms per day.
Cabin cost $160-190 @ $80-95 per day (Could be cheaper if you share a cabin)
Sunday night dinner - Lamb on the Spit Smorgasbord @ $25 per Adult ($1 per year of Childs age up to 14yrs) per person
Booze (What ever you would buy at a Wholesalers in town)
Food - What ever you fancy to eat from Sat night to Monday Lunch (excluding Sunday Night Smorgasboard)
Spending money - Optional (stopping in at a couple of shops along the way)


Id say if you had $300 for fuel and accomodation then there is food and drinkies left........depends on how much ya beast is going to drink :p

Hope this helps..............

[McDuck]

Yea i will be in next time.

[forkoil]

I am a starter, have PM'ed GeoffM for available bed space in his cabin. Looking fwd to it. Went down to Chch and back over xmas/new year so bum has reasonable hardening. Only one speeding ticket too (115), have got the ticket avoiding technique down to a fine art now....

[Qkchk]

I am a starter, have PM'ed GeoffM for available bed space in his cabin. Looking fwd to it. Went down to Chch and back over xmas/new year so bum has reasonable hardening. Only one speeding ticket too (115), have got the ticket avoiding technique down to a fine art now....

Awesome!

The more, the merrier the antics..........:msn-wink:

[wraith]

Hi all. i might have finally talked Dawn into getting on the back of the busa...:lol:
So count me in as a definate.:banana:

[Qkchk]

Hi all. i might have finally talked Dawn into getting on the back of the busa...:lol:
So count me in as a definate.:banana:

Just to clarify - It aint me he's talking about............



So I guess your boy will be housesitting, having a raging party while you and the misses steal some romantic time away? ;)

[wraith]

So I guess your boy will be housesitting, having a raging party while you and the misses steal some romantic time away? ;)[/QUOTE]

"Romantic time " ? Behave yourself :lol:. those days are long gone. I'm here to enjoy the weekend.:innocent:

And as for my lads, they will be with their nanna, so they'll have to be on best behaviour . :yes: So bring on the weekend:scooter::yes::bye:

[Qkchk]

So bring on the weekend:scooter::yes::bye:

And reserve some of this shit-hot weather we have been having over this weekend.........

[forkoil]

And reserve some of this shit-hot weather we have been having over this weekend.........
Yeah true, havent heard from geoffm yet, PM'ed him, still plenty of time but if cant get in there will need to try cabin of my own soon if still available...

[Qkchk]

Yeah true, havent heard from geoffm yet, PM'ed him, still plenty of time but if cant get in there will need to try cabin of my own soon if still available...


Im sure he will check back on the thread from time to time. He's a bit of a lurker on here......... :shifty:

Ninety Mile Top 10 should have a couple cabins left still.

[Qkchk]

Oh yeah, by the way:


ONLY 2 WEEKS LEFT TO GO FOR THE
Northern Exposure Tour '08

So ya better hurry up and make your arrangments if you wanna come!

[Mrs Busa Pete]

Ok have decided to see if we can get a cabin and if we can pete and i will be in for this one.


Just booked our cabin we are in with a grin

[hospitalfood]

mmm...........the usual suspects.
and you will all be passing my house.
my girl and I are seriously considering coming on this ride, or at least part of it.

[NinjaNanna]

Well I got a call on Friday from my boss saying he wants to send me on a Training course the week before this ride that I have been hanging out for since the Queen's B'day ride.

Well the course (poor old me) is in Macau (ok so I can't really complain too much can I). The problem is we've still got to work out the flights but fiingers crossed I can fly out on the Thursday night and get back on the Friday sometime.

The kicker is I'll basically be gone all week and then I'll be pissing off on the bike leaving the family for another 3 days!!! My leave pass hasn't been revoked (bless her) but I do feel bad and I've been looking for options so that she can come to.

Does anybody have a partner that is intending to drive, or is in the same boat?

If there is perhaps they could drive up with her or take turns at going pillion! The real problem is that we have a 2.5 yr old so the car needs to go as well because we don't have anybody to dump our daughter on for a Long Weekend!

[Mrs Busa Pete]

mmm...........the usual suspects.
and you will all be passing my house.
my girl and I are seriously considering coming on this ride, or at least part of it.


Go on you know that you wan't to. Should be a lot of fun what with a good ride and good company.

[forkoil]

Geoff Merryweather (geoffm), Can I rent a bunk in your cabin if there is one spare, PMed you few days ago but no reply, if its full I need to know soon to rent another. Or anyone else for that matter who has spare and wants to reduce costs, non snoring reasonably unoffensive (when I try hard) male.

[Mrs Busa Pete]

Geoff Merryweather (geoffm), Can I rent a bunk in your cabin if there is one spare, PMed you few days ago but no reply, if its full I need to know soon to rent another. Or anyone else for that matter who has spare and wants to reduce costs, non snoring reasonably unoffensive (when I try hard) male.


Do you snore

[forkoil]

Haha NO! And got yr PM thanks,

[Qkchk]

Ok have decided to see if we can get a cabin and if we can pete and i will be in for this one.


Just booked our cabin we are in with a grin

YAY!:clap:

[Qkchk]

The kicker is I'll basically be gone all week and then I'll be pissing off on the bike leaving the family for another 3 days!!! My leave pass hasn't been revoked (bless her) but I do feel bad and I've been looking for options so that she can come to.



Argh thats a bugger Shane... at least the boss didnt drop you in it at the last, last moment like next Friday. Hopefully you will have enough time to sort something out...

[forkoil]

Got a bunk via the busa petes :), so OK to go! geoffm is not a PM reader.... :no:

[NinjaNanna]

Well flights are now sorted, fortunately I got the very last seat (not including business class I'm sure) coming back out on the Thursday night, so that means I should land about lunch time on friday, will make the ride after all :woohoo:

Now all I have to look forward to is 12hrs on a TOTALLY FULL plane.:doh:



Argh thats a bugger Shane... at least the boss didnt drop you in it at the last, last moment like next Friday. Hopefully you will have enough time to sort something out...

[Qkchk]

mmm...........the usual suspects.
and you will all be passing my house.
my girl and I are seriously considering coming on this ride, or at least part of it.

Will be passing by on the way to Dargaville between 10.30 - 11am ish....... Gonna tag along? Im sure a cold :drinkup: is awaiting for you @ Opononi...

[Qkkid]

[QUOTE=NinjaNanna;1380913]Well flights are now sorted, fortunately I got the very last seat (not including business class I'm sure) coming back out on the Thursday night, so that means I should land about lunch time on friday, will make the ride after all :woohoo:

:clap:YAY:clap:

[Qkkid]

Ok have decided to see if we can get a cabin and if we can pete and i will be in for this one.


Just booked our cabin we are in with a grin
:niceone:
:clap:Yay:clap:

[Qkchk]

Time is ticking away............. nearly 1 week to go...

BTW
I was thinking about the meeting time for next Sat. How about meet up @ 9am and depart 9.30am? Can everyone can get up by then? :Pokey:
Meeting place still is Shell Westgate (like the ATNR).

[forkoil]

Where exactly IS the Westgate Shell, never been to ATNR, coming down Hobsonville Rd from shore..... is it that big mess to the left at the junction of the NW motorway and the Hobsonville Rd as you turn towards Kumeu?

[gunnyrob]

yes it is the big mess at the top of the MW Mway.

PUMMBA, Have you booked a cabin yet? I still don't know if I have a bed!

[forkoil]

Earlier geoffm was saying he had spare bunks, but I couldnt contact him so went in with the busa petes. Prob GM still does have bunks, but its dodgy not knowing for sure.... Best of luck, maybe a small explosive device may work?

[Qkchk]

Come on guys n gals - You only have 1 week left to get ya shit together and come on a great weekend away with fellow KBers!

The weather may be shite right now but there is a really good chance it will be hot n dry for this weekend! The Extended Brief Forecast for Friday at this stage is:

"Mostly fine, apart from isolated afternoon showers over the ranges of central North Island and mw Nelson. A few showers about Foveaux Strait also."

Fingers crossed this Golden Summer keeps it up! :yeah:

[Pumba]

I was thinking about the meeting time for next Sat. How about meet up @ 9am and depart 9.30am? Can everyone can get up by then? :Pokey:
Meeting place still is Shell Westgate (like the ATNR).

Sounds like a plan to me.


PUMMBA, Have you booked a cabin yet? I still don't know if I have a bed!

PM has been sent:whistle:

There is still one bed avaliable in the cabin I have boked if anyone else is still not sorted.

[Qkchk]

Just another thing:

This ride will be going ahead regardless of weather...........

So meeting @ 9am for a departure time of 9.30am it is! Gives us time to drop in for lunch at Dargaville with a optional stop at Rawene (or Opo) while we wait for the car ferry...

[forkoil]

Daragville anywhere near Dargaville (you can see we will be having fun :) )

[Qkchk]

Daragville anywhere near Dargaville (you can see we will be having fun :) )

He he I can smell a smartarse in the group ;) Can you read a map?

[forkoil]

Gear wise it looks from their site that the bunks come with pillows, so maybe just a towl, spare grunds, T shirts and jeans for nights? Maybe toothbrush....

[forkoil]

He he I can smell a smartarse in the group ;) Can you read a map?
hehe, happy to own up ;), whichever, we both know it, the Las Vegas of the north west

[Qkchk]

hehe, happy to own up ;), whichever, we both know it, the Las Vegas of the north west

I was just testing to see if you read instructions........ :whistle:

[gunnyrob]

Gear wise it looks from their site that the bunks come with pillows, so maybe just a towl, spare grunds, T shirts and jeans for nights? Maybe toothbrush....

Maybe a sleeping bag too.....

Cheers for booking the cabin Pumba!

All good to go.

[Qkchk]

Maybe a sleeping bag too.....

I would also make sure you bring some folding $$ with you. Trip across only costs $3.50 - Unfortunatley they havent figured out how to install a eftpos terminal onboard the vehicular ferry (http://communities.co.nz/Rawene/ferry.cfm)......

Piccys
1. Vehicluar Ferry offloading at Rawene (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=25150&d=1138703510)
2. Bikes loaded and waiting to travel across to Kohukohu (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=25152&d=1138703510)

Picture below shows the cabins and how we overrun the place.........

[forkoil]

Maybe a sleeping bag too.....

Cheers for booking the cabin Pumba!

All good to go.
Well I dont wanna bring a sleeping bag if I dont have to, will ring them tomorrow see whats in the cabin, if there are sheets and blankets or duvet, then no prob. In these temps, a sleeping bag will be like a sweat bag.

[Pumba]

Well I dont wanna bring a sleeping bag if I dont have to

+1

In these temps it may be wise just to bring a couple of sheets, easy to carry and will be a shit load cooler at night

[Qkchk]

Unless you have a self-contained unit (which has its own shower and toilet) you will only have pillows provided. However, I'm sure you can hire sheets there, just cost you extra $5 or so per night.......? Think a sleeping bag will be way too hot. You can ride 15mins into Kaitaia and go visit Te Warewhare ('The Warehouse', to all you jaffas) and buy a cheap sheet if it came to the crunch...

[Korumba]

Done the rode from Rawene to Dargaville today and its all in great condition, no marbles or roadwork’s, but lots or Tourists so watch out for them.

Mungamukas are all good and the road to Waitki Landing is mint as well, watch out for the locals up there..lol

Hope to catch up with you all on one of the days.

Have a good ride.

[Qkkid]

Thanks for that matey.

[Qkchk]

So who is packed and ready to go? Weather is looking shithot but Im still going to bring some light wet weather gear just in case they have got it right for tomorrow....


Taken from www.metservice.co.nz
Saturday
North Island, a few showers in the north and about Coromandel, rain about Gisborne and Hawkes Bay, showers developing over Wairarapa, mostly fine elsewhere. South Island, mainly fine, but morning drizzle in the east, and isolated afternoon showers inland.

Sunday
North Island, Periods of rain or showers for Gisborne, Hawkes Bay and Wairarapa. Fine or becoming fine elsewhere. South Island, morning drizzle in the east, and a mix of fine weather and cloudy periods elsewhere.

Monday
North Island, Rain clearing from Gisborne,Hawkes Bay and Wairarapa and becoming fine there. Fine elsewhere. South Island, morning cloud and drizzle in the east, and rain developing over Fiordland, fine and cloudy periods elsewhere.

[Qkchk]

So, to recap on what happening tomorrow morning:

Meeting at Shell Westgate @ 9am. Please dont be late so I can do the pre-ride briefing and then be on the road at approx 9.35am.

Catch you guys tomorrow!

[Qkchk]

Well, well, well.

The forecast has been upgraded to warm n dry for all 3 days! :sunny: Excellent touring weather.

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10488720

Just the news we need. :clap:

[Pumba]

Cant Wait, weather is looking good and it should be a great weekend.

What is the story with bottle stores in the area? Can we get some beers not far from the camp or do we need to cart everything in with us?

[Qkchk]

Cant Wait, weather is looking good and it should be a great weekend.

What is the story with bottle stores in the area? Can we get some beers not far from the camp or do we need to cart everything in with us?

We have 3 choices:

1. There is a licenced resturant at the destination, however who wants to pay those prices?

2. Can pick up grog on the way through Kaitaia. (Only 15 mins to campsite)

3. If time/arses permit we can ride through Kaitaia up to the destination point, drop our gear and make a 15min ride back to get some grog. This way you have more room etc....

Guess we will decide which plan of attack when we reach Kaitaia...... hopefully should be there 4ish. Depends on how long lunch is, waiting for the ferry etc....

The bottle stores in town are pretty close to the price you would pay in Jaffaville.

[Maha]

Well, well, well.

The forecast has been upgraded to warm n dry for all 3 days! :sunny: Excellent touring weather.

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10488720

Just the news we need. :clap:

Yeah ya could be in for a beauty...we got a touch of Cyclone Fuma for 3 days at Ruakaka, but we are hard and toughed it out....:eek:
We wont be home we you return Dawn, going back up to the camp on sunday so have a good tour guys, ya lucky bastards...:niceone:

[Qkchk]

Yeah ya could be in for a beauty...we got a touch of Cylone Fuma for 3 days at Ruakaka, but we are hard and toughed it out....:eek:
We wont be home we you return Dawn, going back up to the camp on sunday so have a good tour guys, ya lucky bastards...:niceone:

Oh bugger I was looking forward to a cuppa on the way back.............will catch up @ ATNR in a couple of weeks - Woodcocks needs a dusting of bikes.

[NinjaNanna]

Alrighty guys,

My wife and daughter are definately coming now (camp site booked).

The good news for everybody else is that you can now dump all your stuff in the car.

This is an invitation to all but please let me know tonight, as she'll only be waiting at Kaukapakapa to collect gear if we have any takers. Otherwise she'll be taking off earlier to get a head start on us.

Steve and Dawn - you're just down the road let me know if you want to drop stuff off tonight or on the way through to Westgate tomorrow.

Cheers

Shane

PS as we have a toddler and they can be a little unpredictable would be best if you pack your stuff as if taking on the bike just in case something goes wrong and you need to lug it back yourselves.

[Qkkid]

:banana:1 sleep to go:banana:
:headbang::woohoo::yeah::blip::spudflip:
:sunny::sunny: :mega:Now thats what we talkin about beaut weather up north for the next three days.

[Pumba]

as we have a toddler and they can be a little unpredictable.

Just make sure you bring her box so you can lock her away when its time for bed, being naughty ect, ect, oh and dont forget to take the batteries out (they last longer that way)

Thats the they way it work, isint it?

[NinjaNanna]

Just make sure you bring her box so you can lock her away when its time for bed, being naughty ect, ect, oh and dont forget to take the batteries out (they last longer that way)

Thats the they way it work, isint it?


I see you read the same book as I did, marvellous read and I'm pretty sure I heard Sue Bradford quoting from it recently.

[Qkchk]

Anyone else wanna come along? You can always give the The Park a call on 0800-367-719 and check to see if there is any cabins left.

Hell, with this great weather forecasted for the weekend whats stopping ya from camping in a tent? :rolleyes:

[McDuck]

Wish i could come guys, have fun without me...

[Qkchk]

Gear is all packed and on the bike, weather forecast this morning is for 3 full days of :sunny:


See ya all up @ Westgate 9am!

[Mrs Busa Pete]

We will meet you at kaukop

[NinjaNanna]

We will meet you at kaukop

+1 meet you all at the Kaukop pub

[McDuck]

So how did it go?

[Qkkid]

So how did it go?

:niceone:Fucken unbelievable:msn-wink:

[Maha]

:niceone:Fucken unbelievable:msn-wink:

Picked a great weekend steve.....i await the tour report ...or when Dawn gets around to doing it..:innocent:

[Qkkid]

1 fucked front tyre:shit: 1 rear tyre not too good:headbang: no tickets i still have me licence:love: no bins about 32 bikes rode with us througout the weekend. Nice to see some old faces, and a extra 1500kms on me bike:done: Ya happy now MR Mahaman oh yes did i mention the :sunny::sunny::sunny::sunny::sunny::sunny:

[Maha]

Thats all i need to know at this stage Steve....nice and short and to the point. Cant wait till the real stories roll out....:devil2:

[Qkkid]

Thats all i need to know at this stage Steve....nice and short and to the point. Cant wait till the real stories roll out....:devil2:

:confused: What stories :oi-grr:what happens on tour stays on tour buddy:msn-wink: Did i mention SPB got home from oponi pub 2hr and 5 minutes what a nanna:bleh:

[Mrs Busa Pete]

Thanks a lot Dawn & Steve for orginizing yet another great weekend the weather was :sunny::sunny::sunny::sunny: and the company was awsome. Was nice meeting some new faces and having :apint: around the bbq table. Till next time.

[forkoil]

+1 Really enjoyed the weekend Dawn and Steve. Just had a great time and good company. A good bit of stirring. Sorry missed you at the end, came over top Albany hill, Dawn shot off side road, by time turned around all gone. Then had interesting tour round back roads of Albany, then home. Look fwd to next year.

[NinjaNanna]

What a bloody great weekend, always love heading north, once clear of SH16 it truely its God's Own Motorcycling territory.

Big Ups to the Qkkie's, KB in Auckland simply wouldn't be the site it is without your input and efforts in organising rides. You guys :headbang:

As for the riding - well - I can hoenstly say I enjoyed riding with each and everyone one of our bunch, the saftey and courtesy was 100%

Thanks to all of you as well who made Jacinda feel so comfortable and welcome even though she's not a complete bikie chick yet I'm still working on that. We all had a great time camped up with you lot. :woohoo:

And here are some pics from when I remembered to pull the phone out and take some.

[Pumba]

Well what can I say what a great weekend.

Big thanks to the Qks for ride and the use of their pool at the end of it, the ride could not have finished up better.

Now I do have stories but what goes on tour stays on tour (except everyone should know that Qkkid's ledgendry sense of direction was working at full force) so if you want to know them you will have to come along next year.

[gunnyrob]

A great weekend everyone, an absolute pleasure to ride with you all, would do it again at a drop of a hat. Top roads, top people, top weather, could not have been better (well, other than that corner I Fugged up big time)

See ya thursday night!

[Laava]

Was good to join up for a ride with you guys, nice weather for it and all! That Matauri Bay Rd is a good detour as well! Sorry I didn't have time to meet new faces, maybe next year!

[geoffm]

Twas 'kin great!
The Kaitaia to Cape GP was primo, except for the chunky gravel at the end.

[Qkkid]

(except everyone should know that Qkkid's ledgendry sense of direction was working at full force) so if you want to know them you will have to come along next year.
Thanks Pumba :shit: my imput is a very important part of the organisation :done:

[Hinny]

Total agreement with Steve's summation of the Northern Exposure tour 2008 "Fucken unbelievable."
Finally arrived back today. Didn't want the good times to end. Catching two Large Kingies at the Cavallis this morning was the icing on the cake.... or the cream on my Pavlova.
Thanks to Dawn and Steve for the organisation and to all I rode with for the good times and fine company. I had a blast.

[Qkchk]

Well, what can I say? :scratch:

Bloody great weekend. Weather was perfect even if it was close to 30C on all 3 days!:sweatdrop

What goes on tour stays on tour? Well there are a couple of things that should be mentioned but I'll have to do a write up in the "Tour Report" section. Ive got a few photos to download and a huge audit to write up, so give me a couple of days.................

Thanks to all who participated and specially thanks to Shane and Jacinda who's car came in handy for the piss/food runs back to town.... :niceone:


TURANGI ANYONE?

[NinjaNanna]

TURANGI ANYONE?


HELL YES

+10 chars

[forkoil]

umm YES :rolleyes:

[Hinny]

TURANGI ANYONE?[/QUOTE]


mmmmm yes. Definitely need the radar detector down there...and the fly rod.
Get into some smelting action.

[forkoil]

Very true, gonna be a tough decision at end of day, drink piss with the group or go fly fishing!!

[Hinny]

Twas 'kin great!
The Kaitaia to Cape GP was primo, except for the chunky gravel at the end.

Reminds me Geoff of the quote on aging...

Some people try to turn back their odometers.
Not me, I want people to know "why" I look this
way.
I've traveled a long way and some of the
roads weren't paved.*

[NinjaNanna]

Hi Guys

Figured this was the easiest way to get word out to you all.

Check out this, (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&e=1555&day=2008-2-6) would be great to ride with you all if you don't have anything better to do

Cheers

Shane

[forkoil]

Hi All,
My little piece of news is I bought a brand spanking new GIXXA 600, picking it up on Friday, so wont be ready for ninja's beach loop so I cant show it off :doh: So no longer flying flat out into corners trying to keep up with you lot, got sum geegee power now ...:yes:
Ken

[NinjaNanna]

Hi All,
My little piece of news is I bought a brand spanking new GIXXA 600, picking it up on Friday, so wont be ready for ninja's beach loop so I cant show it off :doh: So no longer flying flat out into corners trying to keep up with you lot, got sum geegee power now ...:yes:
Ken

Was this planned or was it an expensive buy-product (pun intended) of our little weekend away.

And what's the story has the yellow canary already flown the coup? Couldn't you just ride that, or the greedy shop take it straight off you?

[forkoil]

Was this planned or was it an expensive buy-product (pun intended) of our little weekend away.

And what's the story has the yellow canary already flown the coup? Couldn't you just ride that, or the greedy shop take it straight off you?
Still got the canary, and may ride that, will come if nothing else pressing Shane. Lets just say the weekend got me thinking.... Stlll waiting for Dawns write up.

[Mrs Busa Pete]

Hi Guys

Figured this was the easiest way to get word out to you all.

Check out this, (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&e=1555&day=2008-2-6) would be great to ride with you all if you don't have anything better to do

Cheers

Shane

Sorry mate we can't make this one we will be pulling out the kitchen. Have a good one

[Hinny]

Would love to come but Pan looking like a rat at the moment. All the tupperware at The Plastic Repair Coy. being repaired and resprayed. Looks kinda funky like that tho'. One wag described it as looking like a fat chick running down the road naked. Looks good to me!

[NinjaNanna]

Would love to come but Pan looking like a rat at the moment. All the tupperware at The Plastic Repair Coy. being repaired and resprayed. Looks kinda funky like that tho'. One wag described it as looking like a fat chick running down the road naked. Looks good to me!

IT AIN'T NO BEAUTY CONTEST, hey and you know what they say about Fat Bottom Girls don't ya.

[Hinny]

Burton Shipley ( Jenny's old man ) was reported as saying that was his favourite song. Made me laugh.