Canadian on a FULL New Zealand-wide, year-long (or longer) tour via Adventure Bike. [Archive]

Atmonauti

17th July 2008, 20:05

First off I just have to express my profound gratitude to all KB members for what they have done for me so far and I've only just begun!!

I figured I would consolidate all the posts I have into one big Ride/Tour report here.

Here's a little background for those that haven't read any of the other threads I started. Sorry to everyone that has already read of my travels so far. I'll include some photos as well so its a bit easier to take! :D

Here I go.

Why New Zealand you might ask? I have always held New Zealand as my "Dream Country" A lot like Canada in a lot of respects, namely the openness and friendliness of the people and the geography. The draws for me here are overwhelming. You can be on 10,000 ft mountains but yet still be an hour or less from a surfing break. It is the action sport capital of the world. Atop of all this that the climate makes it moderate enough you can ride a motorbike all year round. I am from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada (East Coast) and when you are used to driving 20+ hours straight to get to a decent Skiable "Mountain" (meaning 2000ft high) New Zealand is put into perspective.

My dream/goal is multifold:

Ski every Mountain, Skydive every Dropzone, Scuba every dive site, Surf every Break, Motorcycle the coast of the whole country and hit every good ride inland as well, be it mountain trail or open road. Sample every NZ beer, Visit as many bars/pubs and meet as many Kiwi's as possible.

I am on a year long working holiday in New Zealand but honestly I am not sure I'll leave :D

I looked into sending my 2003 Honda CBR600 F4i (pics on my profile) here but after finding out it would be $2500 USD I figured I would buy a used one in NZ. And I also figured I would do an injustice to New Zealand if I didn't experience her from the saddle of an Adventure bike.

After arriving in Auckland and all my motorcycle, winter, and camping gear waiting for me (Did a 3 month tour of Southeast Asia before arriving) I just needed to find a motorbike.

After a few test rides and a full month of looking on every classifed and forum I could find and heaps of help from KB'ers! I found Old Blue.

<img src=http://photos-e.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3401292_2420.jpg>

After a few quick rides out to Piha and Karekare Beach I was ready to get on the road.

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<img src=http://photos-170.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3394430_3492.jpg>
Did I mention I LOVE NZ!!!

Then heading to the northland up the east coast and down the west. Meeting the most amazing people through www.couchsurfing.com (Thanks Radar!)
<img src=http://photos-170.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3394658_6098.jpg>
I think this looks pretty good on me ;)
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Even the kiddies love old blue! :D

Met the most amazing people one of which (Kel) toured me across this foot bridge to some of the best roads I have come across. Passing from Pataua South to Pataua North just north of Whangarei heads.
<img src=http://photos-170.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3394673_1279.jpg>

After a quick look around we both blast over.

Continued Below.

Atmonauti

17th July 2008, 21:38

Post #2

Did a bit of skydiving in Whangarei at www.skydiveballisticblondes.co.nz
<img src=http://photos-e.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3401060_2180.jpg>

Kayak'd and Swam with 100% wild dolphins in the Russell, Bay of Islands.
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<img src=http://photos-c.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3410074_3738.jpg>

Camped at Maitai Bay on the Karikari Peninsula
<img src=http://photos-170.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v287/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3410671_9941.jpg>

Filled up gas at Awanui and was told there would be gas at Waitiki Landing.

Camped at Rarawa Beach.
<img src=http://photos-e.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v287/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3420452_7389.jpg>

And finally broke my "mud cherry" needing to get off the bike and gun it through!
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After passing Waitiki Landing where I was told they were out of gas and did not know when they would get more.

I decided keep my orginal game plan and continued on.

So I took a night at Tapotupotu on the way up to Cape Reinga.
<img src=http://photos-h.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v287/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3422055_1599.jpg>

Finally made it to Cape Reinga after riding on the worse metal "gravel" road I have ever been on. They were doing some road work on it and the road consisted entirely of a type of base layer "gravel" ie. the size of large grapefruit.
<img src=http://photos-c.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v287/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3422066_5219.jpg>

Heading south I took a turn towards Te Paki Stream, an actual road.
<img src=http://photos-c.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v287/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3422074_7978.jpg>

After a few k's and a seemingly deeper and deeper stream/road in front of me, I decided to get on the the bank and ride that down towards Ninety Mile beach. Was fine for a few minutes bombing along through the bullrushes but it seemed to get more and more thick until I encountered this:
<img src=http://photos-d.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v287/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3422075_8328.jpg>
And my first instinct was to gun the throttle.

In which the end result was my whole bike being consumed by the green wall of vegetation at the centre of the picture in the background ejected me even deeper into it.

Old blue was sinking and stuck deep into the green monster, luckily there was a tour group dune surfing that I had passed about a 500m back which the tour leader was nice enough to help me pick my front tire up turn the bike on the spot on my rear tire and turn the bike 180 to get it on the same path I rode in on.

With me off the bike and gunning it to get it back to the road/stream. The kind soul was nice enough to pick up my gear I had dropped but also was lucky enough to have been fully coated head to toe by the large rooster tails I was spewing but didn't know.

After thanking him throughly I was on my way to Ninety Mile beach. Considerably less fuel in the tank as I was dumping the whole time I was tipped.

Continued Below.

Atmonauti

17th July 2008, 22:31

Post #3

After a few flooded engines pauses I finally got there! and looked back at the "road" I had made my way through.
<img src=http://photos-e.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v287/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3422076_8685.jpg>

Ninety Mile Beach. Yet another actual registered New Zealand Road.
<img src=http://photos-h.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v287/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3422079_9744.jpg>

Heading down the beach. Standing up on the pegs and just racing down the beach, trying to avoid the super soft sand almost getting bucked off not noticing the deeep rollers in the sand and the mini streams in my path. Sucking fumes Hard. Come across a Maori guy fishing on the beach and stop to ask where the nearest gas station is.

"Hey Bro, If you go 4.3 Kilometres south and take a left you find one."

after 15ish kms after that initial 4.3 I come across one. I swear with only 10 seconds to spare of gas.
<img src=http://photos-a.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v287/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3422080_108.jpg>

Some specs say I have a 12L tank but old blue was thirsty alright. 12.5 L later I was off. back along the same route I got off the beach so I can continue in heading all the way down the west side of the peninsula from Cape Reinga along Ninety Mile beach all the way from Te Paki Stream to Ahipara.

Here is a shot from a Hang glider launch spot above Ahipara looking back up the beach past Kaitaia.
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Did lots of surfing at Ahipara.
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Was a bit out of my comfort zone but I ended up being suprizingly comfortable after while doing this!

The Couchsurfing host I was staying with here had a Suzuki 650 Adventure bike he just bought so we did a bit of touring into the Gumdiggers fields in the hills above Ahipara and rode the beach around Puwheke Reserve on the Karikari Peninsula.
<img src=http://photos-h.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3426359_740.jpg>

Taking a trip around the point back deep into the sand dunes into the softest/deepest sand I have ever tried to ride on.
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Got to see my first example of quicksand.
<img src=http://photos-d.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3426547_7571.jpg>

Ahipara has some amazing sunsets.
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Heading down the west coast taking the ferry from Kohukohu to Rawene.
<img src=http://photos-g.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3431526_3471.jpg>

Continued below.

NighthawkNZ

17th July 2008, 22:38

Some bloody good fotos there... glad you are enjoying NZ

CookMySock

18th July 2008, 15:46

After spending a couple of nights on our couch, Dan is off around the cape today, heading for the Gisborne/East Coast area. He's a super nice bloke with some good stories to tell and he doesn't eat much ;) , so if you can find him a couch, piece of carpet, or a field to pitch his tent, then post here.

He could probably do with a few cash jobs here and there too, so if you need a hand with anything..

Ride safe Dan, see you again soon.

Steve

Blackbird

18th July 2008, 15:48

klingon

18th July 2008, 21:13

Crikey Dan, when did you do your trip to Cape Reinga? We (the ccc crew) were up there on the weekend of 6 June. I should have kept in touch because you could have joined us & stayed in luxury at the next beach down from Rarawa.

Also my sister lives on the road that goes from 90 mile beach and comes out just opposite the Houhora service station. She would have come and rescued you if you did manage to run out of petrol.

Who said NZ was a small country?

NZsarge

18th July 2008, 21:27

Damn, some mint photo's the mate. glad to see you're finding some good roads mate.
Try the forgotten hiway on your way down the country.

JMemonic

20th July 2008, 19:00

PM when you get to Christchurch of around here and we might see if we can get a few folks together for a beer and a ride to Akaroa.

CookMySock

20th July 2008, 20:18

.. and a good cook toommmph, chew, wots that ? oh yeah.. good cook alright!

DB

chrisso

21st July 2008, 13:34

Brilliant! But wheres the Sheep?

Number One

21st July 2008, 14:17

ATMO Man!!!

Great to track your progress around NZ, look us up in Welly before making your way over to the South Island :yes:

Cheerio
Dirrrrty Biarch

vifferman

21st July 2008, 15:26

Brilliant! But wheres the Sheep?
This aint a porno site, Mr Ozzie! :Pokey:

BiK3RChiK

21st July 2008, 16:02

:wavey: Well, we've waved goodbye to Dan... :hug: See you when you come round this way next, Dan :soon: It was a real pleasure to have you stay!! :sunny: and I hope the rest of your tour goes smoothly.

Mavis

Monie

21st July 2008, 16:42

HI you came to the right country really neat pic there we are a nice lot..
if you need help with anything just log on and normally someone can help you . have a great trip and enjoy

CookMySock

21st July 2008, 19:09

No goodbyes Dan. See you again soon.

Steve

clint640

22nd July 2008, 15:03

Hi Dan, it was a pleasure to have you stay last night, hopefully we'll catch up again sometime. I hope you get to Taupo without getting too wet today!

The pics from Northland look good, I'm looking forward to the next installment.

Here's some pics & a writeup on my pannier racks for you (scroll down a bit):

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1225702

If you do a search in the thumpers forum on advrider.com (via google - the site search sucks) you'll find lots of other similar creations on various bikes.

Cheers
Clint

Atmonauti

24th July 2008, 09:44

Thanks so much DB and BiK3RChiK and Clint.

It was an honour meeting you let alone staying with you. I cant want to have my own NZ place and you all can come so I can return the favour!

I am in the Tirangi/Taupo area now and will be for at least another day. Getting a few skydives in hopefully and some skiing if the mountains ever open :(

I got pretty wet Clint, I have to get some better leggings and waterproof gloves

Not totally sure what to get. Havent had much luck with the stuff I have been using.

Thanks so much everyone for reading and the comments!!!

Means sooo much to me! :D

Dan

blacksheep

24th July 2008, 10:03

try the dri rider gear,fairly inexpensive but pretty good qaulity:2thumbsup

sunhuntin

24th July 2008, 10:18

damn... glad you got an adventure bike! i totally reckon you should write a book... better than that gareth morgan fulla.

CookMySock

24th July 2008, 11:41

try the dri rider gear,fairly inexpensive but pretty good qaulity:2thumbsupI'll second the dririder gear. It's not particularly strong though, so make sure its large enough so you dont pull it and tear it, and the little plastic clips and things break quite easily, ditto with the zips.

i totally reckon you should write a book... better than that gareth morgan fulla.Agreed. He might HAVE a book by the time hez finished posting here.. ;)

DB

BiK3RChiK

26th July 2008, 13:39

The side cover over the exhaust and muffler has come off Dan's bike somewhere around Turangi/Taupo/Rotorua area. If anyone has a spare or knows where Dan can pick one up from, can they please help out!

Cheers, Mavis

fire eyes

26th July 2008, 18:56

Hey Dan ... let me know when your here .. yup if ya need a bed .. more than happy to make ya up a piece of carpet LOL and hey Im a gun at 2 minute noodles! hahahaha .. hope your ride is going awesome an ohh .. check this link out, thought it might be something your keen on doing .. since your all adventurous n stuff! They do it here in Hawera. Take Care! Trace xxx

http://www.toa.co.nz/Adventures%20in%20Taranaki/kayak%20dam%20dropping.htm

Trudes

26th July 2008, 21:56

Awesome pictures!!!:niceone: Sounds like we'll be meeting you next weekend. Ride safe til then!

Atmonauti

27th July 2008, 11:19

Posted a thread with some pics of my missing/fallen off bike panel :(

figured I'd post here even though chances are slim I know

http://http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?p=1664117#post1664117

CookMySock

27th July 2008, 12:15

broken link - fixed version follows ;

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?p=1664117#post1664117

DB

fire eyes

29th July 2008, 22:24

Highlander

30th July 2008, 09:05

Can't beat these for dry hands: http://www.rain-off.com/ not used mine off road mind you.
Sounds like you are having a good trip so far. Enjoy this place we call home (but don't tell everyone about it - too many people would ruin it).

Naki Rat

30th July 2008, 20:30

3 out of the last 4 nights here in the 'Naki with us. Skiiing, sightseeing, great conversation with the ex-Canadian Mrs. Naki Rat and now well fed and beered and off through the Forgotten Highway to Ohakune.

Friendly and humble Canadian having an absolute ball and plenty of adventures as he zig zags his way down NZ.

You're more than welcome to come on back when the weather is less liquid and we'll show you some surfing and dive spots.

Cheers Dan :niceone:

ynot slow

31st July 2008, 21:01

Dan! Me & You have a date with Dirt! (when i get sortd lol)

Folks .. Dan stayed with me for one short night .. fantastic guy ... big thumbs up for this gorgeousness that is Dan! not an axe weilding psychopath but any means LOL ... but beware .. he blushes when one makes his bed or slaves over a hot stove ordering in pizza! .. he loves porrige to .. and photos .. and conversation!

Safe trippn Mr Canada!

xxx

3 out of the last 4 nights here in the 'Naki with us. Skiiing, sightseeing, great conversation with the ex-Canadian Mrs. Naki Rat and now well fed and beered and off through the Forgotten Highway to Ohakune.

Friendly and humble Canadian having an absolute ball and plenty of adventures as he zig zags his way down NZ.

You're more than welcome to come on back when the weather is less liquid and we'll show you some surfing and dive spots.

Cheers Dan :niceone:

The typical Naki welcome and hospitality abounds eh guys.Any chance he got to see the mountain without cloud?Shit hot if he did and a good ride up the hill as well.
Still a welcoming sight as you near the home province is a snow covered peak,easy to be blaise' about the mountain as being there all times,but when you see tourists looking on in awe at the majesty the mountain portrays,it gives a fair amount of pride to call it ours so to speak.

Am heading to Hunterville Friday so will keep an eye out for a bike resembling his one on my travels if he is on the road.

Atmonauti

31st July 2008, 23:08

I got to Ski Mount Taranaki. Even helped out the volunteers and hiked the mountain's top tow rope to dig it out which proved successful in opening up the highest rope tow in Austrasia.

Unbelieveable poor visibility but just what I needed. I actually finally felt like I had arrived in New Zealand.

Missing the entirety of the record snowfall year back home in Canada it was good to be back in the saddle so to speak.

Positively Taranaki Hardcore. The people and its land.

:)

Number One

31st July 2008, 23:10

Great to hear you are enjoying your adventures. Catch ya on the weekend ;)

Naki Rat

1st August 2008, 09:43

Any chance he got to see the mountain without cloud?

Not as I can remember, but I have provided Dan with photographic evidence that 'Eggie' does in fact show itself on occasions :2thumbsup

And another Naki day dawning....

ynot slow

2nd August 2008, 08:13

Not as I can remember, but I have provided Dan with photographic evidence that 'Eggie' does in fact show itself on occasions :2thumbsup

And another Naki day dawning....

Know the feeling when tourists come to the province and say where's the mountain?My cousins were born in Aussie,used to return every 2 years to visit grandparents with their parents,usually they saw the hill maybe half the time here,and our auntie lived under the mountain so to speak.

Good to see you're enjoying the province and the country,is a good place eh?

fire eyes

2nd August 2008, 10:26

:niceone:fantastic photo Naki Rat!

fire eyes

2nd August 2008, 10:37

Know the feeling when tourists come to the province and say where's the mountain?My cousins were born in Aussie,used to return every 2 years to visit grandparents with their parents,usually they saw the hill maybe half the time here,and our auntie lived under the mountain so to speak.

Good to see you're enjoying the province and the country,is a good place eh?
I love the mountain view from Hawera! he looks so different from other angled but pure perfection from this side .. we stopped off while heading out to Opunake so Dan could take a photo of him .. unfortunately there was a bit of cloud ... it kinda like that though eh .. when you wanna see him he hides and when you dont have the expectation there he he stands in his full glory! (sorry starting to sound like a sermon lol)

ynot slow

2nd August 2008, 23:22

I love the mountain view from Hawera! he looks so different from other angled but pure perfection from this side .. we stopped off while heading out to Opunake so Dan could take a photo of him .. unfortunately there was a bit of cloud ... it kinda like that though eh .. when you wanna see him he hides and when you dont have the expectation there he he stands in his full glory! (sorry starting to sound like a sermon lol)

It is only when you leave the area you really appreciate the sight when home.

As for grandeur,it is great this time of year with a snow covering,mind you my brother says the same thing about Queenstown this time of year,he still likes the mountain when home at dads' place which is up Pembroke Rd,great views of the hill.Hawera definately has a good profile,Opunake not bad either,especially Fanthams Peak with snow on it.

Number One

3rd August 2008, 08:56

Dan rocked up lto Skelstars party last night. Really nice bloke...he's going to come bucketting today. Pity about the shitty weather...oh well :rockon:

Radar

3rd August 2008, 14:59

Dan - Thanks for stopping by to see me in Masterton. You are welcome back and hopefully you can stay longer! Have a great time on the South Island - let us know about your adventures.

I have two photos of you on my KB profile page (albums), here:

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=665

The second pic shows the front and back packs you are wearing. He is loaded down, folks!
The first pic shows the gear on the back of your bike.

Cheers - Radar aka Steve

Trudes

3rd August 2008, 18:56

Hey Dan. Was lovely to meet you last night and today at the buckets, hope you enjoyed watching us mad Kiwis racing "Kiwi styles"! If you manage to come again we'll have to sort you some leathers and a ride.... maybe on Pamela if you're keen.... I know you were quite keen on Pammy weren't you? It's ok, she has that effect on men! :lol:
Safe travels mate!:niceone:

Sully60

4th August 2008, 21:07

Hey Dan it was good to meet you in the weekend.

It was bit of a shame we couldn't get you out on the bucket but at least you got a good taste for the whole scene (the highs and lows) and hey at least I got to spread some fever.:yes:

It was cool to learn something about Canada that didn't come from South Park too, maybe one day you could show us around were you live.

One question though,

What would Brian Boitano do?:bleh:

flame

4th August 2008, 21:12

Awesome to meet you Dan, cheers for coming along to the 'crazy house'. Hope your south Island trip is friggen awesome! and don't forget to come stay with us on your way back up country (if we didn't scare you too much:msn-wink:)

Atmonauti

5th August 2008, 11:21

Swoop

5th August 2008, 11:45

Well im all booked for my bluebridge crossing to the south island.
Dan. Did you get the discount that they are offering if heading to Good Vibes?

chanceyy

5th August 2008, 11:58

Well im all booked for my bluebridge crossing to the south island.

8am tomorrow heading to Blenhiem first and might try to head to some ski mountains further south before heading back up to Motueka for the skydiving festival aug 16-24

Thanks to all the welly folks. Such an amazing group of people I will be back thats a promise!! Can't wait to get my knee down on one of those buckets!!

Thanks so much for having me freebird.

Wellington is such an amazing city.

South Island here I come :D

Great to meet you Dan & it sounds like you are going on the Monte Stello so make sure you go catch up with dogs .. I will text him to let him know you will be on the sailing in the morn :)

ride safe & fun down south :) :hug:

Atmonauti

5th August 2008, 12:11

I called in and got the winter discount with bluebridge. a single person on a motorbike with interislander (Good Vibes Skydiving Festival Discount) was going to be 73 bucks but did not have any tie downs I was told.

Where as bluebridge was 80 dollars and I was advised there would be supplied tie downs. Also Chanceyy advised me there is a Kb'er on this sailing working so it will be nice to talk to another KB'er! I want to meet all of you guys! :D

Sully60

5th August 2008, 12:12

I want to meet all of you guys! :D

Are you sure about that?

Well you have met me how bad can it get?

Atmonauti

5th August 2008, 12:17

ahh you dont give yourself enough credit. I can't thank you enough for spreading the fever that is known as "Buckets"

I am in all of your guys debt.

and yes Ex Mrs Kendog: I do love pamela :)

Sully60

5th August 2008, 12:22

and yes Ex Mrs Kendog: I do love pamela :)

So has everybody else!:shutup:

Trudes

5th August 2008, 12:51

and yes Ex Mrs Kendog: I do love pamela :)
What's not to love eh! I know she wouldn't mind you riding her when you come back to Wellington, she's easy.

So has everybody else!:shutup:
Well, we all know how much you like her!:whistle:

Sully60

5th August 2008, 13:07

What's not to love eh! I know she wouldn't mind you riding her when you come back to Wellington, she's easy.

Well, we all know how much you like her!:whistle:

Like doesn't cover my feelings for Pammy;)

Back on topic.

Te Paki stream is fuggin awesome huh Dan? That huge wall of golden sand that opens out on to Ninety Mile, that's a special place:yes:

chanceyy

5th August 2008, 14:38

Also Chanceyy advised me there is a Kb'er on this sailing working so it will be nice to talk to another KB'er! I want to meet all of you guys! :D

Yup & I have text Barry (baz) so he will be expecting you :)

ynot slow

5th August 2008, 18:20

If your after a great camp ground in Queenstown area,try the one in Arrowtown,very tidy cabins,new ammenities including computers onsite.

Walking distance to town pub and cafes,and short ride to Queenstown.

Freebird

6th August 2008, 08:40

Hey Dan, it was great to have you stay and it was a pleasure to show you around hopefully we can get out for a good run next time your round this way.

As folks have already said he's a great cook and fantastic at tidying up :clap:

Rode to the ferry with Dan this morning so hes of the the south island, great day for the crossing, looking forward to the next installments.

Take care mate

NordieBoy

6th August 2008, 08:59

Cool.
There's a few KB'ers in Nelson if digs are needed/tours organised.

sunhuntin

6th August 2008, 14:05

let us know when you are heading north again... id be keen to come down to welly for a get together with everyone down there. be neat to catch up with friends as well.

chanceyy

6th August 2008, 14:23

Had txt from Baz & Dan made the sailing fine etc :)

Atmonauti

6th August 2008, 20:02

What an amazing strait crossing thanks so much Baz and Chanceyy for the help!

Could not have asked for a better day. Decided to ride the Queen Charlotte pass as well! Soo good.

I am in Blenheim right now but thinking of heading south to catch as much skiing as I can (as I was told the best ski conditions are jul and aug)

If any of those chch folks that were interested in meeting up are still interested I would love to meet you all :)

The only timeline in place is that I have to be in Motueka for aug 16th-24th. I am open to any suggestions :D

I LOVE THE SOUTH ISLAND! :D

heh had to get that one outta my system sorry :)

chanceyy

6th August 2008, 20:17

more than welcome mate, minta day for a sail huh :D

Enjoy the south island .. its special alright :niceone:

munterk6

6th August 2008, 22:09

If any of those chch folks that were interested in meeting up are still interested I would love to meet you all :)

:)

Get to ChCh and give me a call Dan, always a place to stay here, you Canadians rock man! Hope you like a beer:whistle:

Blackbird

7th August 2008, 08:23

I am in Blenheim right now but thinking of heading south to catch as much skiing as I can (as I was told the best ski conditions are jul and aug)

If any of those chch folks that were interested in meeting up are still interested I would love to meet you all :)

Don't forget that Russ in Ashburton said he'd take you skiing at Mt Hutt Dan! Glad you're enjoying Down South - special place eh? Listen out for the sound of banjos though:2thumbsup

oldrider

7th August 2008, 21:45

Klunka tunk tunk a tunka tunk ttatata atunk! Yeh, it's really alluring sound aint it! :violin: Enjoy the South. :lol: Cheers, John.

Atmonauti

8th August 2008, 09:10

A huge thanks to buggsubique and Munterk6.

Was amazing to meet all of you. Kiwi's are so much like Canadians I love it!

Even got to do some riding with both of them!

Got in a quick offroad stream crossing and mud/sand/boulder ripping session with buggsubique around the wineries in Blenhiem with the sun setting on the Kaikoura ranges. Epic.

Just passed the 10,000 km mark in NZ as well :D

I'll try to get my installment of my tour up soon!

Atmonauti

8th August 2008, 10:15

Post #4

Finally entering the much anticipated Waipoua Forest via Motorbike.

<img src=http://photos-d.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3431531_4691.jpg>
Mmmmmm soo good.

Gotta love on way bridges past two monsterous Kauri trees!
<img src=http://photos-f.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3431533_5321.jpg>

So amazing. Full almost 360 degree turns in amongst the most amazing un touched forest.
<img src=http://photos-g.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3431534_5664.jpg>

Made it back to Whangarei and stayed with Kel Rood who took me to all sorts of amazing places.

He works on the Pilot boat for the Whangarei port.
<img src=http://photos-g.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3431558_4785.jpg>

Here he is bringing in one of the smaller tankers into port.
<img src=http://photos-c.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3431562_6170.jpg>
<img src=http://photos-f.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3431573_152.jpg>

Just in case.
<img src=http://photos-a.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3431568_8354.jpg>

Took me out and let me ride his Africa Twin Honda as well!

Made me miss my CBR even more...
<img src=http://photos-e.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3432700_3899.jpg>

Made my way up to Tutukaka to dive the Poor Knights Islands. (Jacques Cousteau's Top sub-tropical diving spot in the world!)
<img src=http://photos-e.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3433452_4744.jpg>
Finally there after about an hour boat ride.
<img src=http://photos-a.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3433456_5923.jpg>

<img src=http://photos-d.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v262/115/38/628650170/n628650170_3433475_1977.jpg>

In all the SCUBA diving I have done in Vietnam and Thailand I have never seen this many fish in one spot at a place called the Blue Maomao Cave.
The only place were fish weren't at is my trail of air bubbles to the surface. Other then that I was fully surrounded by a thick blanket of fish all just stationary holding there position in the current through the cave with the smallest of motions. Just awesome.

Continued soon hopefully!

Naki Rat

8th August 2008, 16:50

Hi Dan,

Great to hear you are still discovering NZ and loving it :2thumbsup

It just occurred to me that your visit is very much a two way exchange to all you meet and who meet you.

In the same vein as "the best aphrodisiac is an aroused partner",
the best way to appreciate your own New Zealand is through the eyes and words of a happy visitor.

Keep the tour report coming, and we'll catch you in the Summer :sunny:

Blackbird

8th August 2008, 16:56

It just occurred to me that your visit is very much a two way exchange to all you meet and who meet you.

Very nicely put:clap: Feel privileged to have met Dan.

munterk6

8th August 2008, 21:09

Dan has made it to ChCh and is having a well deserved rest staying at my place.
It rained today and he was planning on leaving for Ashvegas but I think the rain put him off a bit lol!
Tomorrow if its fine im going to lead him on a tiki-tour around the bays in Lyttelton Harbour. We chatted bout all sorts of shit last nite and compared notes on our countries, all very informative and interesting.
Turns out he's a poker player and he went to a poker game at a pub tonight.
In a way I wish I had done the adventures like he is doing, but hey, I already live in the best country in the world!! My hat's off to Dan the man :first:

It hosed down here in ChCh on saturday with snow in the morning but it did not deter Dan, he mounted up Saturday midday, and headed off to Ashvegas for skiing adventures at Mt Hutt. I woke this morning (Sunday) to heavy frost and blue skies so Im guessing Dan would have been on the mountain in all that beautiful powder snow...lucky bugger!
Im glad I was able to host Dan, who knows, maybe someday I can stay at his place once he gains residency here in NZ :Punk::wari:
Rock on brother:done:

heres a shot of Dan on a real bike..

fire eyes

10th August 2008, 21:17

sincity

19th August 2008, 07:58

Great photos, I can't wait till I come over now and even if I get to see half of what your photos show I'll be happy. Cheers for the eye opener on a beautiful country

NordieBoy

19th August 2008, 08:21

I don't think the Motueka guys like Dan.
They keep throwing him out of planes but he's determined and just keeps getting back in.

Swoop

19th August 2008, 11:56

I don't think the Motueka guys like Dan.
They keep throwing him out of planes but he's determined and just keeps getting back in.
You have to keep testing the gravitational pull of the planet.
There is a theory that on occasions it reverses, so regular testing is required.

sincity

19th August 2008, 16:01

so whats the roads like around Queenstown etc like?

Blackbird

19th August 2008, 16:27

so whats the roads like around Queenstown etc like?

Queenstown > Glenorchy Road is incredible. So is the Milford Road, so is.... so is..

Have a look at: http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?p=1110872#post1110872 if you want some pictures of bike roads in that area.

If no-one else has mentioned it, get yourself a copy of:http://www.amazon.com/Zealand-Motorcycle-Atlas-Peter-Mitchell/dp/1877302325

This book is a "must" for all motorcyclists in NZ.

Cheers,

Geoff

Atmonauti

26th August 2008, 14:48

Thanks so much to Nordie Boy and family. Yet another huge reason why I dont feel half has home sick as I should if not for meeting the most amazing people! Truly top shelf.

After getting 30 or so jumps in during the Good Vibes 2008 Skydiving Boogie I am finally heading down the west coast of the south Island.

If anyone feels like meeting/riding with a Canadian down the whole west coast let me know! I wanna meet every kiwibiker! :D

My mobile number is 027 365 5850 just in case :)

I'll try to get the next installment of the ride/tour up with pics asap!

You guys rule!

NordieBoy

28th August 2008, 19:05

And he's on his way!

munterk6

29th August 2008, 00:02

Woohoooo! Go Dan! Hope ya love ridin the WET Coast as much as I do, Im sure you will:clap:
Be sure to drop by next time you are in ChCh ok...bacon and eggs is on the menu lol!

klingon

1st September 2008, 10:13

And he's on his way!

Is that really Dan under all that gear?! He seems to get more loaded up every time I see a pic! But at least he looks warm.

Blackbird

1st September 2008, 10:24

Is that really Dan under all that gear?! He seems to get more loaded up every time I see a pic! But at least he looks warm.

Have you noticed that the wet weather seems to follow Dan about? I'm holding him personally responsible for all the crap weather around the country:angry2:

Swoop

1st September 2008, 21:16

Have you noticed that the wet weather seems to follow Dan about? I'm holding him personally responsible for all the crap weather around the country:angry2:
He is merely "herding" it all back to Fiordland where it belongs...

Number One

1st September 2008, 22:51

Have you noticed that the wet weather seems to follow Dan about? I'm holding him personally responsible for all the crap weather around the country:angry2:

So enjoyed Dan being in the South Island on the weekend then...:whistle: were a lovely day for a sausage and a race :shifty:

marty

2nd September 2008, 08:41

Hey Dan if you're up for a few sport jumps on your way back up north drop me a message - i'll shout you a load or 2 at Matamata.

Atmonauti

16th September 2008, 11:27

Sorry it took so long to get on here to post. Been through some crazy times. Including a breakdown in the worst place you can break down in New Zealand.

But it ended up being perfect timing again to see other things and meet new amazing people.

I was in Matamata for a day but the weather was bad so I'll have to try to get up there again! thanks so much for the jumps shout offer!

Gosh. I Love the south Island.

I'll get my next installment of pics up soon!

Thanks for all your interest everyone! Very humbling for a regular ole' Canadian :D

Sparky Bills

16th September 2008, 12:09

Just had a read through some of the previous posts.
Looks like a bloody awsome time your having! :headbang:
Glad to see NZ is showing you all it has to offer.

Go hard man!

NordieBoy

16th September 2008, 16:58

We're getting hungry waiting for dinner you know :oi-grr:

:D

BiK3RChiK

16th September 2008, 19:45

We're getting hungry waiting for dinner you know :oi-grr:

:D

Hahahahaha.... Yeah, Dan is a great cook!:sunny:

I'm glad you are enjoying the South Dan... just don't forget about us in the North, eh!:confused:

munterk6

18th November 2008, 21:25

Where are ya Dan?????? Its 2 mths since ya last posted mate.....wots going on :0)

NordieBoy

18th November 2008, 21:43

He rang last month with some bike problems but nothing since then.

Number One

19th November 2008, 06:56

I was also just wondering when his next update might be posted. Hope all is well.

sinfull

19th November 2008, 07:10

I'll be a woman !!!!!

Trudes

19th November 2008, 07:11

I'll be a woman !!!!!

I bet you say that to all the boys! ;)

sinfull

19th November 2008, 07:13

I bet you say that to all the boys! ;)
Faaaark and i'm normally so good at proof reading , um er ahhh that was spose to be \
It'll be a woman !!!! Damn the sticky keys !
Slinks into a fetal position !

portokiwi

19th November 2008, 07:30

:crazy:Ok Sinfull:whistle:We will try to believe you:lol:

sinfull

19th November 2008, 08:31

:crazy:Ok Sinfull:whistle:We will try to believe you:lol:

I do not !! I repeat DO NOT look good in a skirt !

Or lacy red knickers and fishnet stockings that lead up to a nice lacy lil holdy upy thing ! Noooo not at all no way !

Mom

19th November 2008, 08:35

I do not !! I repeat DO NOT look good in a skirt !

Or lacy red knickers and fishnet stockings that lead up to a nice lacy lil holdy upy thing ! Noooo not at all no way !

Perhaps not, but it would be funny to see you dressed like that :dodge:

portokiwi

19th November 2008, 08:37

:nono: Mom plese dont push a guy thats trying realy hard to come out of the closet...:rolleyes: I stand by you mate ....just not in front of you:buggerd:

sinfull

19th November 2008, 08:42

Think dreds and a beer gut !!!

portokiwi

19th November 2008, 08:44

:lol::2thumbsup:lol:OMG

chanceyy

19th November 2008, 14:15

I do not !! I repeat DO NOT look good in a skirt !

Or lacy red knickers and fishnet stockings that lead up to a nice lacy lil holdy upy thing ! Noooo not at all no way !

hmmmmmmmmmmmm :scratch: ya reckon there Bill :blip:

thanks for the :lol: this aft though .. :devil2:

but yeah where the hell is Dan ... :gob:

Atmonauti

19th November 2008, 17:38

AHAHAHAHAH Oh man... I miss you all you guys!

Sinfull and Portokiwi tooooo funny!

Look what I started! I Love it!!

Sorry its been so long since I last posted :(

Not much in the way of cheap internet access as of late :S

I have been all the way up to Farewell Spit and all the way down the West Coast, Some hairy times crossing Lewis pass in a snowstorm with 1-2 ft of snow on the road on half bald tires. Heli-Skiing out of Methven at Mt. Potts

Sooo much. It has been all been a dream meeting the most amazing people.

I am currently in Glenorchy Just north of Queenstown. Working in a Cafe and helping out at a dropzone skydiving, Riding, Hiking as much as I can all in the heart of Lord of the Rings Scenery.

A little case of flooding in Milford Sound to boot!

I will get more pics up soon as I might have found a bit cheaper internet!

I am ever so humbled again by all your interest!

I hope to get on here again very soon!

Dan

BiK3RChiK

19th November 2008, 17:43

Sounds like you are having a great time down South, Dan! That's awesome...

Looking forward to seeing more pics when you sort out your internet

Hugs, ChiK

Number One

19th November 2008, 17:43

Good to hear you are still having good times!

elle-f

1st December 2008, 15:04

waiting for more adventure stories...............and pix

munterk6

3rd December 2008, 22:20

WooooooHooooooooooooo!!!! :Punk:
YOU are da MAN:laugh:
Glad to hear you are catching so much of the South of our awesum country Dan. Makes the North Island look very very mediochre and dull doesnt it?
Isnt Glenorchy a great spot? Ive been to many rallies down there and the road from Queenstown to Glenorchy on a fine day is just farkin MAGIC!
Be sure to drop by my place mate, you are welcome anytime and Im itchin to see all the pics of your latest adventures.....:done:

munterk6

12th December 2008, 23:14

ok everyone......Im the bearer of bad news....:crybaby:

Dan has left the country.:scooter::innocent::yes:

I dropped Dan at the ChCh airport at 11 am Thurs morning, he was very elated and so happy to be with us all, but a tad sad as well, to be leaving this fantastic country we call home. He gave me an enormous hug at the airport for our farewell....... Dan is a humble and honest man. He left the faithful XT400 Yamaha with me for safe-keeping and believe me people, that bike is revered in my household folks, think about it...Dan has completed a mission that we as ordinary Kiwi folk can only imagine and dream about. Yes, 15000kms in 9 mths around NZ and now he is about to embark on a new journey. Dan told me he wants to travel across Canada to see and say Hello and Goodbye to all his family and friends back home. You see, Dan loves NZ and feels so at home here that he is about to take the step..the jump across to our way ... trhe Kiwi way of life ......which isnt that much different to the Canadian way of life!
Anywy peeps, he told me he wants to return early 09 and settle here in the S.I. with a job(gulp) and his CBR600 Honda which he will bring with him and tour the roads ne now loves and knows like the back of his hand!
Dan has over a thousand pics on his digi cam, and will post more up as soon as he is able.
Big UP's to the Canadian guy that believed in himself...and believed in us Kiwis , ya can't go wrong mate.
Will keep in touch with the man, and no doubt he will be posting up on this thread as soon as he has gotten over the jet lag. He leaves Auckland Sat morn, arrives Toronto Sun nite, then on to Halifax Nova Scotia which is home(after NZ!). Gooooooooooooooooo Dan!
ps..we need people like Dan in our country, he is a positive influence on us all. :rockon:

BiK3RChiK

13th December 2008, 05:27

chanceyy

13th December 2008, 06:31

whew he has made a good decision & yup Dan is a very personable likeable guy .

Looking forward to seeing some of those pics :yes: & to his safe return to our shores

Trudes

13th December 2008, 07:30

Well that's great news!! Canada's loss is NZ's gain with Dan I reckon!!:headbang:

Number One

13th December 2008, 09:20

Good on ya Dan :blip: we'll let you in for sure :hug:

klingon

13th December 2008, 13:46

Well that's sad news :( and happy news! :D

He certainly is a good bloke and will be welcomed back to NZ with open arms!

fire eyes

13th December 2008, 14:39

thats fantastic news! awesomeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee way to go Dan! :banana:

Naki Rat

15th December 2008, 12:12

Looks like the weather home in Halifax (http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/city/pages/ns-19_metric_e.html) will be unseasonably mild for the next few days. Still it's got to be a shock to the system exiting the Kiwi early summer to head into what could well be a white Canadian Christmas.

See you back again soon Dan :niceone:

Ripperjon

18th December 2008, 16:57

I'll look after the GY road for you while you're away buddy ;p

Glad i got that final ride in with you through the gorge when you left QT.

Let me know when you're on your way back.

More ridin and flyin is in order.

Get in as much tracking practice as you can and we'll get the wings on together next time

See you soon MF

Atmonauti

25th February 2009, 12:01

My utmost apologies for my tardiness.

The timing just was not right for me to stay in New Zealand at this point.

But don't worry for I have seen Aotearoa and her family and will return.

My heart still lies deep in all of you. All that I had the absolute privledge of meeting, all that I have talked to and helped me on this life focusing journey and all that have taken even just a spare second to feel the desire to click on my thread even for an instant.

My whole being thanks you all.

I did end up leaving you all very hastily. Thank you again MunterK6 for your unwavering help my brother!

I already had a return ticket and came back to a job that has treated me very well and funded this whole experience in the first place.

I do have aspirations of another journey. A Canada wide solo tour via my dream sport bike sitting here at home in the far eastern Canadian City of Halifax. Staying clear of all highways and rolling through every small town and best bike routes across the entire country. All in preparation to live and work in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada during the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Ride the Canadian Rockies through and through with one of my best friends that now lives there and who just got his own motorbike as well.

I crossed off so many life dream list experiences while in the company of people that even knowing for 30 minutes felt a connection akin to knowing them 5+ years.

I am not a religious man but I have no other word to even come close to verbally explain how fortunate I feel. Blessed.

And for those that are interested I will be continuing to update my NZ adventure now that things have settled down a bit. Time to start going through the 23+Gb of video and photos (5400+ files)

I am now in the process of putting together some material/proposal to have my current employer be given the opportunity to be a part of my Trans Canadian Journey.

As well thoughts of getting my New Zealand Journey on paper for the possible beginnings of some sort of short stories at the very least are starting to emerge.

People need to know about you all and the dreamland you call home.

Or maybe I should just keep them inside, don't want too many more bikers on the roads eh?

Talk soon!

:D