The Great Lower North Island Loop Ride

[Grub]

Due to circumstances beyond our control, one KB member decided to Ride from Wellngton to Taupo on 15 March 2008. In typical KB fashion, this has been blown all out of proportion with a number of us wanting to go with him and then have a long cruisy ride around the lower north island. We're getting quite keen on the idea now and serious planning is under way.

The original intention was to do this in a day but we have now settled on 2 days overnighting at Taupo's Great Lake Holiday Park (http://www.greatlake.net.nz/accom.cfm?listingid=00026330) ($25ea in a cabin). Yet another member decided on that weekend that he'd like to do the Gentle Annie between Napier and Taihape. We're getting towards the end of the summer and this may be a great opportunity for a last-hurrah weekend for the lower north KBers from Wellington, Wairarapa, Manawatu, Hawkes Bay and Taupo areas.

The proposed route so far is 841km and stays off the state highways where possible but without adding hundreds of k's to the ride. The current plan is to take in some well-known roads running nearly parallel to the SHs on surfaces that are sealed, generally clean and within hailing distance of gas stations.

The route-at-large is Day One: Upper Hutt, Masterton bypass, Eketahuna bypass, Paihiatua bypass, Danniverke, Ormondville, SH50, Taradale, SH5 Napier-Taupo ... Day Two: Western Lake, Ohakune, Taihape, Upper Kawhatau, Pemberton, Cheltnam, Feilding, Pahiatua Track, Masterton, Wellington. (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=12094242209691859502,-40.789100,175.696160%3B5795101003706165372,-40.552925,175.776864%3B11188405456298876349,-40.336098,175.984048%3B3633290167535952672,-40.278881,176.031134%3B18004287009200510447,-40.062750,176.304939%3B6052079972947254751,-39.504835,176.853447%3B9058798418225654699,-40.538044,175.730885%3B6914213312043462716,-40.596470,175.675630&saddr=Brown+Owl,+Wellington,+New+Zealand&daddr=Opaki+Kaiparoro+Rd+%40-40.789100,+175.696160+to:-40.676993,175.736961+to:Eketahuna+to:Makakahi+Rd+% 40-40.552925,+175.776864+to:Scarborough+Konini+Rd+to: Mangamutu+to:Ridge+Rd+N,+Pahiatua,+New+Zealand+to: Jackson+Rd+%40-40.336098,+175.984048+to:Oringi+Rd+%40-40.278881,+176.031134+to:Matamau+Ormondville+Rd+to :Takapau+Ormondville+Rd+%40-40.062750,+176.304939+to:Hwy+50,+new+zealand+to:-39.504835,176.853447+to:taupo+to:poihipi+rd+to:Kur atau+to:Taihape+to:Upper+kawhatau+to:Pemberton,+Ne w+Zealand+to:Pahiatua+Track+to:Nikau+Rd+to:Pukewha i+Rd+%40-40.538044,+175.730885+to:Nireaha+Hukanui+Rd+%40-40.596470,+175.675630+to:Brown+Owl&mra=dpe&mrcr=1&mrsp=2&sz=12&via=2&sll=-40.658243,175.701942&sspn=0.19195,0.31929&ie=UTF8&ll=-39.787434,175.709839&spn=3.110913,5.108643&t=h&z=8) Now that we're taking a whole day to come back on the Sunday, we've added in the Taupo Western Lake road and the Pahiatua Track so that we stay off SH1 and it's Sunday Log-jam at Otaki :argh:

Approximate Timing details for Saturday March 15:-
- Assemble Rimutex 8:30am
- Depart Rimutex 9:00am
- Eketahuna approx 10:45
- Dannevirke approx 11:45
- Taradale/Napier 1:15pm
- Lunch Napier Waterfront by the Marina
- Depart Napier 2:15pm
- Taupo 4:15pm
- Overnight at the Great Lakes Holiday Park

For rendezvous call my helmet-mobile (021) 41 41 96

Approximate Timing details for Sunday March 16:-
- Assemble outside Subway 8:30am
- Depart Subway 9:00am
- Arrive Taihape (cafe behind the old Post Office/Bank?) 12:00pm
- Leave Taihape 1:00pm
- Arrive Ashhurst 4:30pm
- Eketahuna 6:00pm
- Rimutex 8:00pm

For rendezvous call my helmet-mobile (021) 41 41 96

Please stick your name on the Calendar list if you're thinking about it. It doesn't matter if you don't go, it just indicates interest at this stage.

Here's the Calendar to plonk your name on (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&e=1585&day=2008-3-15)

The unanswered question is ... is this better as a 2-day ride overnighting in backpackers or camping so it stays cheap as we can make it? The other alternative is just to make it a 1 day affair. That will be hardest on the welly crew but for the Wairarapa, Manawatu and Hawkes Bay tems, it's just a doddle.

[DingoZ]

:rockon: - What a brilliant way to wave goodbye to Summer....

:shit: - 2 Days - An overnighter with Good food - Some Drink - Great Company......How can one refuse....:)

Even if it turns out to be a one day affair. Still going to be heaps of fun..


:done:...I'm in

[KoroJ]

If you want two days you should expand it to take in the Waioeka Gorge or East Cape....and/or maybe the the Awakino Gorge/Mt Messenger or the Forgotten Highway but....!

Your date's not great though as the Hill Climb/Rapa Rumble is on that weekend and I, along with several others will be leaving for a date with a Rusty Mini.

[DingoZ]

Nice suggestions.....Worth considering...Haven't been down those ways on a bike yet....hmmmmmmm...:)



And yup realise the Hill Climb is on. Was organised to acompany another rider who is going from Welly to Taupo on this day. However some people are not going to the Hill Climb or other events on this day as well as some of the Manawatu riders are not going, So ride put together for those who wish to go...:)

[Meanie]

Love to join up with you but ill be down south
Have a safe one

[slimjim]

yea ride to enjoy if weather permit's, that amount is not worth killing your bike or yourselves

[McDuck]

I might be buying a bike in welli. If i decide to could yo of you guys tank me down on the back?
Thanks

[Grub]

That might be a bit harder mcduck5 coz we're going up via the bay and back down the other side.

Oh yeah ... and ... ANOTHER bike ????

[McDuck]

That might be a bit harder mcduck5 coz we're going up via the bay and back down the other side.

Oh yeah ... and ... ANOTHER bike ????

Yea i know, i am going to need to get a bigger 'bikes owned' box :)

[DingoZ]

Is it time to go yet....:cool:


Looking forward to this.......:)

[Nasty]

looks like I may be coming ... making it a total of 9 days on the bike out of 11 days total .... hmmm ... have to think hard on this one!!

[chazza404]

Thanks for linking this Dingoz im sure I would have discovered it eventually :P

I'm interested but have gf's bday on the sunday so might only be able to come for the sat all good i can just turn around :D

As the weekend after that is a long one for easter could it be better suited for a ride then? just sticking it out there :shifty:

[Grub]

As the weekend after that is a long one for easter could it be better suited for a ride then? just sticking it out there :shifty:

Easter = millions of cars, caravans & boats on roads, all frustrated and doing stupid things and all accom is at peak rates and already booked. Besides we're doing this because Diego is riding to Taupo that weekend .... so it's all his fault!

[DingoZ]

Easter = millions of cars, caravans & boats on roads, all frustrated and doing stupid things and all accom is at peak rates and already booked. Besides we're doing this because Diego is riding to Taupo that weekend .... so it's all his fault!

Yeah, the bassstad. Should be hung drawn and qaurtered for such a suggestion. I mean the nerve of the guy, asking for company.... Sheesh what was he thinking......:2thumbsup

[nivram]

Would I be okay dong this on my L's, just dont want to get pinged for going over 70, as the chances of that happing are quite high:laugh:

Also not keen on removing plates as that could cost me even more in the long run.

[McDuck]

Would I be okay dong this on my L's, just dont want to get pinged for going over 70, as the chances of that happing are quite high:laugh:

Also not keen on removing plates as that could cost me even more in the long run.

If you are riding in a group and not riding like a dork the cops will let it slide.

[DingoZ]

Would I be okay dong this on my L's, just dont want to get pinged for going over 70, as the chances of that happing are quite high:laugh:

Also not keen on removing plates as that could cost me even more in the long run.

No need to worry, and no need to remove your plates. Trust me, you are better off to ride with them on. More dollars if you ride without and get caught.

Mcduck5n is correct. Unless you are riding all over the place, on one wheel, and all erratic like, and with a grp, it's not a big concern........:)

So most welcome..... Whole ride is "Learner friendly", and it's not going to be at a cracking fang it pace....:)


PS. If youre thinking of coming - http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&e=1585&day=2008-3-15

Plonk ya name on the list. Just gives us an indicator on numbers....:)



:2thumbsup

[McDuck]

As a genral rule if a moron would do it, it is a bad idea. If you ride 'boring' you will be fine.

[DingoZ]

Now it was a decent thread before that name was mentioned.

No more thanks



Thanks for the edit out

[Grub]

On the accommodation front, we've got some cabins at the Great Lakes Holiday Park (http://www.greatlake.net.nz/cabins.cfm?listingid=00026330) at a cost of $21 per person so just keep in touch on the ride's thread (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=68242) and plonk your name in the calendar post (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&e=1585&day=2008-3-15&) so we know if we need to book another cabin - or book yer own

[nivram]

I will be riding at a very sedate pace, re the bunks can I go on top?

[DingoZ]

I will be riding at a very sedate pace, re the bunks can I go on top?

Pace is not a problem. As explained, not going to be a fantastic land speed record attempt. We will be cruising....

And as for the bunks............Well gunna leave that one alone.........:shit:

[nivram]

Cruising is good I'm still learning so I'm still playing things safe and keeping the speed down. Should be a good trip looking forward to it.

[McDuck]

Cruising is good I'm still learning so I'm still playing things safe and keeping the speed down. Should be a good trip looking forward to it.

If you are not happy on the highway i would not recomend going. While this will be a 100% safe enviroment, it is a long way to be not happy. I recomend go for a ride with a few of the other guys going before hand...

[Nasty]

If you are not happy on the highway i would not recomend going. While this will be a 100% safe enviroment, it is a long way to be not happy. I recomend go for a ride with a few of the other guys going before hand...

Experience dictates that nothing is 100% safe. It is what you make it .... ensure your bike is up to scratch for the trip ... and that you are fit ... those are two things that will help.

[McDuck]

hhhh ya ok, i will reut that,


'this enviroment will be about as safe as you can get'

[DingoZ]

Okay just to make this clear.......!!!!

Those wanting to come along on the ride are most welcome...L's R's or full's

If you are NOT COMFORTABLE doing road legal speeds, (posted speed limits) then it may not be for you.

You ride at your own risk, just the same as if you were riding by yourself.

There will be someone acting as a Lead Rider, and someone who will be TEC.

And everyone will be riding to their own capabilities.....


Okay, sweet, no dramas, no hassles

Want anything else, ask the horse direct, don't listen to the horses arse...!!!

Cheers and have a nice day

:rockon:

[McDuck]

Okay just to make this clear.......!!!!

Those wanting to come along on the ride are most welcome...L's R's or full's

If you are NOT COMFORTABLE doing road legal speeds, (posted speed limits) then it may not be for you.

You ride at your own risk, just the same as if you were riding by yourself.

There will be someone acting as a Lead Rider, and someone who will be TEC.

And everyone will be riding to their own capabilities.....


Okay, sweet, no dramas, no hassles

Want anything else, ask the horse direct, don't listen to the horses arse...!!!

Cheers and have a nice day

:rockon:


What he said.

[DingoZ]

** Update **

Okay people, 2nd cabin is booked. So we have spots available...

Details on departure and meet up times (with the Manawatu and HB riders) that are coming will be posted shortly.

If you are thinking of coming, can you pop ya name on the calendar link please, just gives us an idea on numbers..

Cheers

[HornetBoy]

** Update **

Okay people, 2nd cabin is booked. So we have spots available...

Details on departure and meet up times (with the Manawatu and HB riders) that are coming will be posted shortly.

If you are thinking of coming, can you pop ya name on the calendar link please, just gives us an idea on numbers..

Cheers

Could be keen to come along aye-were would be the place to meet you guys ?

not sure at this point if id be one for a 2 dayer tho so might do up and back

[DingoZ]

Feilding is on the second day on the way home. Would you be able to get to Dannevirke, we will probably be stopping there for a meet and fuel..

Going to work out the timings with Grub today, so they should be posted up later on this afternoon.

The more the merrier for this one. One of the last chances for a decent ride and a nice farewell to Summer....:)

[HornetBoy]

ah yep just realized that ,dannieverk would be fine ,Will have to see how the funds are on monday so i can give a definite answer. (working out how much ill need -how much is the accommodation going to be ?

[DingoZ]

Dirt Cheap. Won't be more than $25.00 for accom.....

:)

[HornetBoy]

ahwell hope their is no sudden hike is petrol prices ,been hearing their might be one soon :angry2:

think i worked out i will need to set aside $105 for this .. sound right to you guys ?

-$80 Fuel
-$25 Accomidation

???

[DingoZ]

Yeah sounds about right. Plus whatever you want to spend on eats and drinks etc.....:)

[Grub]

Dingoz and The Grub have played with the maps and the clocks and we reckon this is a reasonable guess on where and when we'll make stops on the way to pick up Manawatu and Hawkes Bay KBers.

Timing details:-
- Assemble Rimutex 8:30am
- Depart Rimutex 9:00am
- Eketahuna approx 10:45
- Dannevirke approx 11:45
- Taradale/Napier 1:15pm
- Lunch Napier Waterfront by the Marina
- Depart Napier 2:15pm
- Taupo 4:15pm
- Overnight at the Great Lakes Holiday Park

For those on the ride or intending to join us, PM me for my mobile number as I have phone comms in my helmet and can let you know how we're going getting to you.

[ajturbo]

what??? only 2 days to get to taupo and back???

it took me 4 days just to get to palmy the other day... via coramandle!

[DingoZ]

Yeah well there a couple that have to Work on Monday....:( (Not me I got holidays).

There was a suggestion of home via Eastcape, and then Awakino Gorge.....hmmmm one side to the other........Might have to be for another time that one.....:)

[HornetBoy]

Yeah well there a couple that have to Work on Monday....:( (Not me I got holidays).

There was a suggestion of home via Eastcape, and then Awakino Gorge.....hmmmm one side to the other........Might have to be for another time that one.....:)

me neither im a bloody student lol suppose people will make suggestions on the day wheather we make any detours but the current ideas look/sound good.

just hope i can spare the $$$ to come along,as iive just finished the almighty repairs on the kat

[McDuck]

me neither im a bloody student lol suppose people will make suggestions on the day wheather we make any detours but the current ideas look/sound good.

just hope i can spare the $$$ to come along,as iive just finished the almighty repairs on the kat

oooooo what went wrong?

[HornetBoy]

oooooo what went wrong?

well it was a sunny day in the manawatu and.... :mad: 3 months down the track and its all repaired, bike and rider.lets just say im very lucky to be standing eh!

[McDuck]

well it was a sunny day in the manawatu and.... :mad: 3 months down the track and its all repaired bike and rider

gutted.....

[HornetBoy]

gutted.....

yup sucked bad ,cost me a shite load of money cause i wansnt insured either :crybaby:

[DingoZ]

Are we there yet......

I want an ice cream........

Just around the next corner........

5 more days till kick off.........:laugh:

[Nasty]

can't ya wait for me to get home first!!!!

[DingoZ]

can't ya wait for me to get home first!!!!

Gunna have to....cause your buying the ice creams......:Pokey:

[DingoZ]

3 days to go.....

Any and all welcome. Got some spots left in the cabins.

Be in Dannevirke around 11:30-11:45. For any of the Manawatu Riders interested.

Lunch will be Napier waterfront around 1:15 for the HB crowd. Be good to see you for lunch. And also if a few interested in joining us for the jaunt to Taupo or further.....


:scooter::rockon:

[nivram]

All sounds good any idea as this will be my first 'long' ride what should\shound't I bring?

Myself and bike is a start I know any other tips?

[Grub]

There's not much to it Nivram. It's just a collection of your short rides into a short period. You don't really take any special precautions when you do 100k, this really isn't that much different. Yes you are further from home but in close contact with civilisation.

The only issues to content with are
- Weather (bring your best wet weather gear)
- The Cold & Hot. You'll get both so have a little backpack that will take your jacket liner for the hot and maybe a lil scarf if it gets dark and cold
- Mechanical failure is going to bugger you close to home or away.
- Punctures, I know about these. I now carry a puncture kit with two extra gas bottles because of the 180 back tyre not being filled by the 3 bottles in the standard kit. These kits can get you to the nearest service station or last for 1,000's of k's - depends on the puncture.

Oh ... and bring yer jammies n toothbrush :)

[DingoZ]

Change of clothes...For after the ride..

Wet weather gear...

Toiletries - toothbrush, etc..

Camera if you into taking photos to record ya trip


If you bringing all this in a backpack, keep it light and only whats absolutely necessary. Same as if this is going in saddlebags or pack rack....

Linen is supplied in the cabin, so no need to bring sleeping bag...

See ya Saturday

[nivram]

Thanks guys, I will go and buy a puncture kit tommorow.

[Nasty]

Getting my bike checked today ... after 2100 kms in the last week she started looking a little sad yesterday ... so if all goes well I can still come .. if not Grub will defiantely be ok on his own and you guys will have to look after him!!

[Grub]

Saturday - Welly to Taupo
- Wairarapa, Mainly fine with light winds.
- Hawkes Bay, Becoming fine. Southeast breezes.
- Taupo, Fine, some high cloud. Southeasterlies.

Sunday - Taupo, Taihape, Fielding, Welly.
- Taupo, Fine with Southerlies
- Taihape, Fine with southeast breezes.
- Manawatu, Fine with southeasterlies.
- Wellington, Partly cloudy with southerly change.

Am fizzing ... 2 more sleeps :banana:

[merv]

Hey mate have fun, sorry I've been quiet on this thread just seeing what was up and sure enough I've got to give it a miss for a work commitment, will be wearing my tux again at a dinner in Auckers this Saturday night flying up and back about midday Sat & Sun. :doh:

[Grub]

Bummer, would have loved to have you n Ces along

[DingoZ]

:angry2:........Hurry up Saturday


:whistle:........:scooter:...............:clap:


8:30 am at Rimutex.... Be there.....

[Grub]

In the first post of this thread and the Calendar, I have posted the return times - and got a bit of a shock. It's way too long, getting back at 8pm, so I think if people don't want to play that long, all we have to do is not do the Taupo western Lakes road which cuts the time by 1:30mins which means we have options ...

- Leave at 9 and lunch at 1pm in Fielding, home by 6pm
- Leave at 10 instead of 9 and be in Taihape for lunch at 12, home by 8pm
- Do the whole lot starting at 9am and finishing at 8pm

The group can decide Saturday night. For anyone wanting to join us, I have a helmet-mobile so just ring me (021) 41 41 96 to find out where we are.

[DingoZ]

:eek5:....I'm up.

:crazy:....Didn't get much sleep


What was I doing today.........Oh thats right....:scooter:.....:yes:


See you all at Caltex...

[Grub]

:eek5:....I'm up. ...

I'm not, it's Saturday. Saturdays are for sleeping in and taking it easy. Since I'm not up I haven't oiled the chain or topped up the oil.

[Nasty]

Ok ... so I went to the Rimutex and saw the guys off ... I think that is a great compromise considering I just done 2100 kms around the country and am buggered .... just spoke to Grub and they are tracking well for Dannevirke and having a great time. :banana::cool:

[robertydog]

Had a nice lunch at the Thirsty Whale in Napier. Then we rode with the guys up the Napier Taupo Road stopping off at Tarawera, where we had one last chat and sent them on the way.

[Dino]

Thanks guys for letting me tag along today from Upper Hutt to Dannevirke.

You picked some great weather to start the trip off with, I hope the rest of your journey is in the sun.

Have fun.

[DingoZ]

Thanks guys for letting me tag along today from Upper Hutt to Dannevirke.

You picked some great weather to start the trip off with, I hope the rest of your journey is in the sun.

Have fun.

Pleasure, any time at all...... Cheers for acting as TEC until Dannevirke... Hope you had a fun filled cruise back to civilisation. Weather stayed the same all the way through to Taupo. And the same was had on Sunday for the return trip .... Next time no turning back at Dannevirke...:)

[Grub]

... and no punctures! Da Curse is broken:devil2:

Will post more tomorrow when I have a brain but the short story was ... it was great! Rimutex to Rimutex = 987.3km, nearly sent us all to th top of the hill and back just to make it a nice round 1,000 but by the time we added home(s) to Rimutex and back it comes out about 1,100 for the two days.

We modified the route a bit as we travelled, trying to save time and still arrived late to meet the very patient and gracious HB crew. Some bozo forgot to factor in the fuel stops at 20mins each:pinch:

More tomorrow, night all ...

[NZsarge]

Cheers for acting as TEC until Dannevirke... Hope you had a fun filled cruise back to civilisation.
:Oi: that'll be enough of that thanks! We got electricity and phones, what the hell do you want?!:lol:
At least you spelt Dannevirke correctly I guess...:p

[Dino]

Here is a couple of the better pictures from the short time I was with you guys, I know a couple of you are photographers so don't shoot the amateur.

The first couple are coming through the clouds on the Rimutaka hill, the last one is heading towards the wind farm around Ballance.

If you object to the pictures of you being on KB please let me know and I will remove them, thanks.

Glad you all had a great time and got home safely.

.

[Grub]

Hey smart pics Dino ... how'd you do that?

Middle picture of backs (L to R) are Dingoz, Diego, Navrim, Grub

It was great to have you along, wish it could have been for longer. That's really quite a cool shot of the mist/fog/cloud on the Takas. That was the last fluffy stuff we saw all weekend ... magic.

I really am off to bed now :o been asleep at the 'puter for over an hour :zzzz:

[DingoZ]

I really am off to bed now :o been asleep at the 'puter for over an hour :zzzz:

Snoring again I bet....................:Pokey:


Nope don't object to the pics one little bit Dino, cheers....:)

And yeah (obviously with a camera), but how you do that while you riding, you got it mounted somewhere on the front of bike...?

[Dino]

Hiya, yeah have a little home made aluminium mount for a video camera. Not the greatest quality of pictures but I always enjoy looking back at the action shots as well as the pit stop pictures.

Bad memory (wife will testify to that:spanking:) so pictures are my saviour for remembering bits n pieces. Also handy to help remember where Grub took us, some great little roads explored, thanks:niceone:.


Looking forward to the ride report, some good experience will have been gained.

[Nasty]

Fantastic pics ... I think they are great ... always good to see another innovation!!

[nivram]

Great Pics, Great Ride, perfect weekend had a lot of fun and most of all learnt heaps thanks to Grub and DingoZ.

[DingoZ]

Just a couple of photos from the ride...

Great ride, had an absolute blast again....

[diego]

Hi guys, I am back, and safe in Welli. Thanks for the ride. It was a lot of fun, I will see U next time.

[DingoZ]

Excellent. Not a problem in the world Diego. Anytime...:)

Glad you had fun....

[Grub]

Sorry it took so long, people to see, places to go, things to do ... and all that. Once I got home, I realised that I'd hardly taken any pics because I have a new phone and hadn't worked out the taking pics bit. Then when I did take them, they're the same as what the others did ... oh well

We had a good group leaving Rimutex myself CBR600, Dingoz (he made this happen) with the two-tone GT250R, Diego (he caused it to happen) on his Yammy Virago 250, Nivram (he took the plunge to go on his first ever roadtrip) on a Hyo Comet 250 and Dino (photographer all the way to Danniverke) on the mighty VTR1000. We left on time too at 0900.

The idea fo the trip was to find some really good riding roads where you can just get into a flow and sweep through the scenery. We weren't looking to go fast but to maintain a reasonable cruising speed. No violent accelerations with the subsequent heavy braking into corners, just the kind of smooth zone you get into which puts a huge grin on your face. We also had a fair distance to cover in the day so we couldn't get too far from the rhumb line. Well from the SH2 one anyway because going to Taupo via Napier is anything but direct :) It just meant that we found and explored roads just off the highway. We managed to stay off the highway as much as possible until Napier. Anyway, I digress....

We had a really strange experience (for me anyway) over the takas as you can tell from Dino's pic. We had misty foggy cloud stuff just after the summit. It only existed for about half a k but was interesting while it lasted. The run to Masterton is just plain boring isn't it. I guess the best that can be said is that it settles you down :sick:.


From Masterton, I was very keen to explore with the group a road I found which goes from the Masterton bypass to Eketahuna (map) (http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=&saddr=ngaumutawa+road&daddr=loop+line+to:Mauriceville+to:mangaoranga+to: eketahuna&sll=-40.797045,175.655905&sspn=0.383101,0.63858&ie=UTF8&ll=-40.797177,175.696106&spn=0.383101,0.63858&z=11). Everyone should know about this road! How many time have you just cruised past Mt Bruce on that long straight boring road and wondered if there's anything better. There is and the Mauriceville road is it. Check out the google map link and go find it one day. Dino was fizzing about it. The road is wide, smooth, clean and with beautiful sweeping corners. My suspicion is that it might have once upon a time been SH2 before they did the Mt Bruce deviation - it's that good. As you leave Masterton on the bypass road, there's that humungeous straight with the winery(?) on it. Well just past the winery going north is Loop Line which goes right onto SH2. You go up SH2 for about 500metres and turn right onto the Mauriceville road. Ingore signs to Mauriceville West, just keep going and you'll find the name Mangaoranga. I can't actually remember anything being there but the name will be on a signpost or two. If you get it right, you will end up back on SH2 1.5km from Eketahuna township. If you got sucked into the "Eketahuna" signposts somewhere, you'll end up on SH2 via Coach Rd about 3km from Eketahuna - all good.

That is a road you have to do and makes a really good day ride. The funny looking cafe/shop on the right as you go into town is much much better than it looks. The owner is a baker and she makes all her own pies and tasty treats. I would happily incorporate that as a lunch destination with a ride through the back of Martinborough, Longbush, Ponatahi, Gladstone and Homebush. These roads give the rural 'fix' without the narrowness and debris of the Alfredton, Pongaroa, Weber one.

We had to gas the Virago at Eketahuna and then head for our next diversion which was to get to Woodville via Mangamaire, Nikau and Ballance (map) (http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=9431943026051806426,-40.486370,175.728170&saddr=eketahuna&daddr=mangamaire+to:Nikau+Rd+to:ballance+to:woodvi lle&sll=-40.480904,175.801849&sspn=0.38492,0.63858&ie=UTF8&ll=-40.48926,175.784683&spn=0.384872,0.63858&z=11). I would really like to explore that route via Nirea and Hukanui (map) (http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=14805191111186715862,-40.615869,175.654692&saddr=eketahuna&daddr=Quarry+Rd+%40-40.615869,+175.654692+to:-40.562982,175.696621+to:mangamaire+to:Nikau+Rd+to: ballance+to:woodville&mra=dpe&mrcr=0&mrsp=2&sz=13&via=1,2&sll=-40.596619,175.697823&sspn=0.096064,0.159645&ie=UTF8&ll=-40.495004,175.769577&spn=0.384839,0.63858&z=11), has anyone done this? I couldn't determine from the aerial shots if some of that is dirt road or not. Anyways, there's a shot of Dino's as we road the Ballance road. That would have been the narrowest on the trip. That road actually comes out at the very end of the Manawatu Gorge, you may remember seeing a very long one lane bridge across the river there, that's the road. Oh and guess what - there's a damn fine cafe there too.

The run up to Dannevirke was predictable, I would like to spend some time exploring the side roads out that way. On Chanceyy's Manawatu Waitangi Day ride we seemed to find some but I didn't really know where we were. Alas we had to say goodbye to Dino at this point as he had to return home - via Weber, Pongaroa and Alfredton of course! Then we were 4.

It's only 9km out of Dannevirke before you can get off onto yet another classic bike road from Matamau through Maktoku to Ormondville, Kopua, Takapau and onto SH50 (map) (http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=16468495032189066314,-40.021090,176.324410&saddr=dannevirke&daddr=matamau+to:matamau+ormondville+rd+to:ormondv ille+to:kopua+to:takapau+to:-40.014468,176.324387&mra=dme&mrcr=5&mrsp=6&sz=11&sll=-40.01815,176.3237&sspn=0.387561,0.63858&ie=UTF8&ll=-40.108013,176.247139&spn=0.193525,0.31929&t=h&z=12). This is great riding. It's not narrow with debris, the roads are good sweeping ones and the distance is just about the same as goin up SH2 - but way more interesting. SH50 (the only way to the HB).

We headed for the waterfront and happened to bump inot the HB crew. Well actually, they'd been waiting for 45mins for us! Legends all of them. Our thanks for your patience and great hospitality as always to Robertydog, MSTRS, Yungatart, Frying Finn and there's someone else whose handle I didn't catch:spanking:. We were holding the HB crew up as they were due at Team Cudby's 'surprise' party so after lunch and a natter it was orf to do the Napier Taupo road ... that is a way cool piece of tarmac. We'd stayed together as a group in sight of each other all day so this time we had a bit of a play and Nivram got the Learn from Yungatart :) When we pulled into the Tarawera Tavern a few cobwebs had been blown and the grins were almost as big as the stories. It was sad to part and be on our way, especially as they'd left us on our own for that corner. You know, the one 500metres west of the pub which is downhill, left, steep and has judder bars all through the braking zone - thanks guys. Then we were 4.

We arrived Taupo at 5:30 and said goodbye to Diego who was off to meet some mates for 4 days of drink and debauchery. It was all his fault we came in the first place, we had such a great time I nearly kissed him - nearly. Just 3 left, Dingoz, Nivram and I, we checked into the cabins at Great Lakes Holiday Park ... great value at $31 each, perfect for this kind of trip. Perhaps hearing the guy next door writing his name in the bowl with his 4am pee did take the edge off it a bit.

Since the finest dining establishments of Taupo were bidding for our business we snobbed them all and camped out at Cafe Max on the waterfront. Damn good food, not flash, fun staff and a meal (full flounder for me) and extras for about $18 - can't beat that. Day Two laterz

[Dino]

Outstanding effort on the ride report Grub, nice read.:clap:

Looking forward to part 2.

[diego]

I loved the report... we will have to do it all again... by the way... thanks Grub for not kissing me.:yes:

[Grub]

Well, how remiss of me, I didn't post up the day two report and since then we've been to Levin, Mangaweka, Apiti and back to Welly and then two days later back up to the Manawatu, over to Hawera and then back to Welly the long way via Turakina and Shannon - another 1,200km. But I digress ....

Day Two, Sunday, dawned with a typical NZ fine and still day - motorcycler's heaven. We were all pretty much awake by 7:30 and looking forward to the day ahead which promised to be a little more leisurely than Saturday since the distance was a little less and we didn't have the pressure of a timetable. That's nice in a way because it allows you to stop and smell the flowers when the urge takes you. Saturday had some timelines so that we could meet and pick up any onther riders on the way who might like to come along. We did that and valued our time enourmously with the HB crowd.

Diego had left us in Taupo so it was just Dingoz, Nivram and I who shook off the cobwebs. Dingoz's cobwebs were a little stickier than ours as he alleges that I snored and kept him awake all night. Clearly that's not true as I heard no such thing. No photographic nor audio evidence has been presented to verify the allegation. I believe that the excitement was just too much for him. Thinking about it now, I don't recall Nivram voting either for the Ayes or the Noes - fence sitter! So since no offence was disclosed, we set about for breakfast.

We settled on the tried and true Cafe Max (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Property/Commercial-Property/Commercial-Property-For-Sale/photos/a-125583346/p-53820355/k-228412.htm). They did us proud for the evening meal and they're really geared up for this eat n go stuff. Besides, how could I pass up Lambs Fry & Bacon for a sunday brunch - huh? We were pretty well organised and got away at 9:07 which was pretty much to plan.

We had options for our route home and so over breakfast debated which to take ...
- 1) Around the Lake to Taumaranui/National Park, Taihape for lunch, back roads behind Taihape to Feilding and Pahiatua Track (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=6052079972947254751,-39.504835,176.853447%3B7294029877800449707,-38.850920,175.683750%3B3890484442321287702,-38.996510,175.377860%3B9058798418225654699,-40.538044,175.730885%3B6914213312043462716,-40.596470,175.675630&saddr=taupo&daddr=Western+Bay+Rd+%40-38.850920,+175.683750+to:SH+4+%40-38.996510,+175.377860+to:Upper+kawhatau+to:Pembert on,+New+Zealand+to:Pahiatua+Track+to:Nikau+Rd,+Nik au,+New+Zealand+to:Pukewhai+Rd+%40-40.538044,+175.730885+to:Nireaha+Hukanui+Rd+%40-40.596470,+175.675630+to:Brown+Owl&mra=pr&sll=-39.827522,175.748291&sspn=1.527126,2.532349&ie=UTF8&ll=-39.804316,174.70459&spn=3.0552,5.064697&t=h&z=8) (530km, 9hrs 48mins)
- 2) Around the Lake to Taumaranui/National Park and then the Paraparas to Wanganui (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=7294029877800449707,-38.850920,175.683750%3B3890484442321287702,-38.996510,175.377860&saddr=taupo&daddr=Western+Bay+Rd+%40-38.850920,+175.683750+to:SH+4+%40-38.996510,+175.377860+to:wanganui+to:bulls+to:Levi n+to:Johnsonville&mra=mr&mrcr=3&sll=-39.804316,174.70459&sspn=3.0552,5.064697&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=8) (468km, 6hrs 24mins)
- 3) Around the Lake to Taumaranui/National Park to Taihape for lunch and SH1 home (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=8171500182579352643,-38.526921,175.860026&saddr=taupo&daddr=Poihipi+Rd++to:National+Park+to:taihape+to:b ulls+to:kaiwharawhara&sll=-39.573939,175.421448&sspn=1.532747,2.532349&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=8) (474km, 6hrs 40mins)
- 4) Straight down SH1 to Taihape, back roads behind Taihape to Feilding for lunch and Pahiatua Track (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=7294029877800449707,-38.850920,175.683750%3B9058798418225654699,-40.538044,175.730885%3B6914213312043462716,-40.596470,175.675630&saddr=taupo&daddr=Taihape+to:Upper+kawhatau+to:Pemberton,+New+ Zealand+to:Pahiatua+Track+to:Nikau+Rd,+Nikau,+New+ Zealand+to:Pukewhai+Rd+%40-40.538044,+175.730885+to:Nireaha+Hukanui+Rd+%40-40.596470,+175.675630+to:Brown+Owl&mra=mr&mrcr=0&sll=-39.804316,174.70459&sspn=3.0552,5.064697&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=8) (418km, 8hrs 25mins)

Last time Dingoz and I did this area we had the most fun on the road around the lake through Taumaranui and onto National Park. This was all new to Nivram so he was happy to follow us (fool!). So our choice over breakfast was 3). We thought the Paraparas as being very technical and Nivram was still finding his wings on the nice open winding roads so were best to carry on like that. The around Lake Taupo inclusion was never an issue, it's just too sweeping and too empty to be left out of any ride in that area but it does add 111.1km (true) and 2hrs to the leg from Taupo to Taihape so that had to be considered - albeit briefly. The best laid plans and all that - but more of that later (no, I didn't get a puncture!).

We were all talking about riding styles and the value of a road trip to get your confidence and abilities up so we suggested to Nivram that he trusts us (fool!) using MSTRS's mantra of "... if I don't brake, you don't, if I do brake, do it too ...". We set off from Taupo and as soon as we hit Poihipi Rd around the north side of the lake, you could see it was working. We were like a big bad snake winding it's way through some great scenery on a great road that has no surprises. This is one of those roads where you never notice the distance and you just wish it could go on forever. We finally stopped for a chat and grin-reset at the Kuratau Junction. We were only there for less that 10mins and countless bikes came around from the Turangi way heading north. The guy on the gixxer thou tried to impress us by winding to the red line all the way into the northern sun but we were much too cool to be impressed.

From Kuratau Junction it was off towards Taumaranui, well Manunui actually which is about 6km south of Taumaranui and is the junction of SH4 and SH41 (which we were on). As is the beauty of motorcycle touring, about halfway along this route, we happened upon a hidden treasure in the form of a lookout. We had stopped for a regroup where the road was a bit wider and allowed a safe stop. Where we stopped had been preceded by a lookout sign. I'm sorry that I can't remember the name of it but it started with W - it didn't seem important at the time and as the sign was behind us we didn't later see the name. A couple of cars came out of the bush road from the lookout so curiosity got the better of us and we went to have a looksee. Well! This lookout was the highest point for what seemed like hundreds of kms. The platform and carpark are in the top right of this image (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=7294029877800449707,-38.850920,175.683750%3B3890484442321287702,-38.996510,175.377860%3B9058798418225654699,-40.538044,175.730885%3B6914213312043462716,-40.596470,175.675630&saddr=taupo&daddr=Western+Bay+Rd+%40-38.850920,+175.683750+to:SH+4+%40-38.996510,+175.377860+to:Taihape+to:bulls+to:Pahia tua+Track+to:Nikau+Rd,+Nikau,+New+Zealand+to:Pukew hai+Rd+%40-40.538044,+175.730885+to:Nireaha+Hukanui+Rd+%40-40.596470,+175.675630+to:Brown+Owl&mra=pe&mrcr=3,4&sll=-39.804316,174.70459&sspn=3.0552,5.064697&ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=-38.86205,175.542834&spn=0.006048,0.009892&z=17) where the regional boundary takes a sharp turn, you can see the wee sealed road up through the bush. There's a large platform and from the top you have a 360deg view of the whole south Waikato and northen Manawatu-Wanganui regions. Brilliant, just brilliant.
I should have done a panorama but I didn't so this <IMG SRC="http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/photopost/data/500/thumbs/2008-03-16_KuratauLookout.jpg"></img> (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/photopost/data/500/2008-03-16_KuratauLookout.jpg) will have to do for now.

It's not far from there to SH4, which just happens to be Dingoz favourite piece of road. Dingoz? Where's Dingoz? Oh that might be him, that speck disappearing over the horizon! He got 'slightly' ahead of us. By the time we'd reached the National Park gas station he'd gassed the bike and deflowered two virgins.
As you can see, <img src="http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/photopost/data/500/thumbs/2008-03-16_NationalPark.jpg"></img> (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/photopost/data/500/2008-03-16_NationalPark.jpg) the day was a stunner - and now we were hungry. So onto the beasts for a run down the west side of the mountain, a quick wave to the camera van in the rest area just before the Ohakune turnoff and on to Taihape to put the nosebag on.

{... more ...>} (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=1492975&postcount=80)

[MSTRS]

My suspicion is that it might have once upon a time been SH2 before they did the Mt Bruce deviation - it's that good.... the Mauriceville road. Ignore signs to Mauriceville West....

If so, it was a lot of years ago. My old man spent his early teens living in Mauriceville (his old man was Station Master there during WW2). Mauricevile existed because of the Lime Works there and it was on the Main Trunk Line. In those days the roads were all gravel and probably best described as 'interesting'. Anyway, my dad tells stories of riding a pushbike from Mauriceville, through the West version to work in a dairy factory that was situated on the Masterton to Eketahuna road. I remember that factory from when I was a kid, but it was bulldozed when the re-alignment of the north side of Mt Bruce was done in more recent years. You can still turn off the main road at that point to go to M.West etc

.... Frying Finn...
He won't be happy....he's Swedish

...they'd left us on our own for that corner. Yeah. Us locals are scared of it...when we need to go to Taupo, we take the much easier way via Wairoa, Waikaremoana, Murupara....

[Grub]

The trouble with expectaions is that you can get disappointed - badly. The Taihape cafe behind he old bank/post office has been one of Nasty and my favourites. There's a courtyard out the back and the bikes can be parked beside the trellis where you can keep an eye on them (nice if they're loaded with gear that you can't be fagged taking off). When we arrived it wasn't hugely busy. I was second in line Dingoz was third. I placed my order and went outside to sit in the sun. Dingoz got there before me and had steam coming out of his ears - the young serving whench had ignored him and served the next person in the queue! To say he was pissed off is being mild. Just as he told me, this other young table-serving whench (both about 14) came past so I told her what had happened and suggested that she speak to her boss so that they could quietly solve the problem - she never did. she served both Nivram and my orders but never said a word to Dingoz - nor did anyone else. Piss poor all round - total f-up. Dingoz refused to be consoled and wouldn't eat anything in that place and I don't blame him. But I did feel a shit for eating mine! So for future reference, it's the cafe across the side road from the cenotaph behind what I believe was either the Bank or Post Office (can't remember its name). And so we grumpily left Taihape. What they though was an inconsequential single pissed-off customer has just been broadcast to 70,000 KBers ... bad move on the cafe's part.

This was going to be the boring part because the plan was to do SH1 all the way to Welly ... until that is, we got to Ohakea ... WTF???? Oh, ok, it's the Ohakea Open Day. Bloody hell, look all the cars! This was at about 3:30ish I think as we pulled off the road at the weighstation to see what the fuss was all about and why SH1 was lined with cars both sides and had cones turning it into 3 lanes. Well we got our answer as the F1-11 made its high speed pass with wings swept and just under Mach1 ... yummy! By the time we got our helmets off it was back doing the low-speed run with the tongue of fire out the back, you've all seen the photos - awesome. We soon realised that all 30,000 people there knew this was the day's finale and were trying to leave. OMG, time to get out of there quick-smart. Too late. The stream all the way to Sanson and turning up SH1 said it all .... no way we were going up there.

A quick roadside chat in Sanson confirmed we all felt the same and so it was off over the Pahiatua Track after all. Even at the end of a long day, it is a lovely road. We did the whole up-journey in reverse Track-Ballance-Mangamaire-Eketahuna. Awesome ride follwed by the Masterton bypass and over the hill uneventfully to Rimutex. From Memory it was 9:13pm so we'd been on the road 12hrs this day, we'd done Rimutex to Rimutex via 987.3 km and for me home to home of 1,040.5km. What a blast. Good people, great roads, brilliant weather and no dramas. My thanks to everyone who shared.

Can't wait to do it again.

[Dino]

Another great ride report Grub, glad you all had a great time and got home safely.:niceone:

[DingoZ]

Yeah. Us locals are scared of it...when we need to go to Taupo, we take the much easier way via Wairoa, Waikaremoana, Murupara....

I remember the corner from the first trip over that road going up for the CC Ride that day. Not cool.....:(

After your advice on how to take that particular corner, was prewarned and pre armed, so found it much easier to negotiate. It will always be a corner stuck in the brain me thinks for the next time I am on that piece of road...:)

[DingoZ]

Snoring, what snoring, Oh you mean the stereo wood cutting that was going on from both you and Nivram......Nah that didn't keep me awake......Even through ear plugs...NOT!!!!!!......:)

Don't even go there about the cafe in Taihape... Piss Poor Service by any standards. If ya make a cock up, fine thats one thing, but it's all about what ya do to make it right. They didn't even attempt to do anything....So nope not going there again.


Ah bliss the National Park road from Taumaranui to National Park.........Even better is the road from Te Kuiti to National Park.....:drool:

In all it was a blardy excellent weekend. Great riding, roads, food (both Napier and Taupo), great company. Big thanks to the HB crowd that waited for us, and then "ESCORTED"..:)....us out of town......Muchly appreciated..

Definetly a doer again for next summer.....

[Grub]

.........Even better is the road from Te Kuiti to National Park.....:drool:.....

You are a bad bad influence ... you mean like this?

A plan is being hatched (http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=&saddr=taupo&daddr=te+kuiti+to:national+park&sll=-38.510235,175.617465&sspn=0.778002,1.266174&ie=UTF8&ll=-38.683366,175.413208&spn=0.776131,1.716614&t=h&z=10)

[DingoZ]

Yup thats the sucker....:)


Oooooh hatching of plans..........:devil2: