American wandering New Zealand

[the vet]

I'll arrive in Auckland on Dec 7 and 5 days later I'll be 43 years old. I was born in NY, but I've lived in 6 different states and in a few countries; mostly 20 years ago, and mostly for shorter periods of time. I first thought I'd come to NZ to just explore your beautiful country and meet New Zealanders, traveling by motorcycle, taking my time, fishing along the way, engaging the adventure and beauty your country is known for. Then I thought, if I can work along the way, all the better, and tomorrow I'll accept a 6 month position based in Wellington which should also get me a work permit good for 5 years. So the plan as it stands now.....travel for 2 months, work 6 months, travel and/or work for another 3-4. At that point I'll try and decide to stay, or return to the States; that is part of the adventure for me...the unknown.

This is my first attempt at a ride report. So bear with me until I can work out some 'flow', and a way to seamlessly attach pictures. I am starting early with this so that I can perfect the process before I actually arrive; at which time I imagine 'the process' will be more challenging. I have enthusiastically devoured some of the ride reports on ADVrider; there are some wonderfully talented storytelling motorcycle adventurers out there. Emails will be the best way to contact me directly. srndptee@gmail.com

I need a change in my life. What the heck...how can I pass on an opportunity like this?

[jrandom]

Welcome to the forum.

Plenty of commercial farming operations and suchlike in NZ, so as a vet I'd imagine that you'd have an easy time finding work here.

:niceone:

I guess you'll be stuck with small animal practice in Wellington, though?

[portokiwi]

Welcome mate. Kia ora. I hope you enjoy your stay here in NZ:scooter:

[James Deuce]

Drop me a line when you get here and we'll sort out the beer thing.

I'm 43 on the day you arrive.

[the vet]

If Northern California didn't have some fantastic off road riding opportunity, I would have never stayed here the 9 years that I have been. But the 'good' riding season is short. It may not rain at all----zero----from March to October here. The terrain turns brown, fires are common, the riding areas become intolerably dusty....but when the rains do start, the ground becomes perfect. Quickly it can transform to a sloppy mess with area closures and deep muddy ruts, but when the rains first come Oct/Nov, or the mud starts to dry in March, the riding is magical...and here are some pics (hopefully) from riding after the first rains of the season....and maybe my last ride in California.

typical Northern California landscape; this about 2.5 hours drive north of San Francisco, entering into Mendocino National forest from the East side....otherwise known as Stonyford.

[the vet]

Still trying to work the photo attachments out....bear with me. Would be nicer if they were full size rather than thumbnails....any suggestions?

The riding terrain in Mendocino National forest. The pics are from more open areas, although you can get into some really nice narrow single track in thick conifer forest.

[the vet]

We camped at about 500 m elevation, and climbed up to the good riding at about 2700-3000 m where it began to rain and then got really cold. We were soaked through, but the conditions were epic.

I had to pour the water out of my boots before setting them next to the fire in an attempt to dry (not melt) them before morning

[the vet]

two more pics, then I'll wait for some attachment advice....

a photo from a trip to the Canyon Lands region of Utah----Moab area, and a picture of the tarmac half of my motorcycle persona; this pictured on the Northern California coast....Pt. Reyes Station.

Tomorrow I'm off to Colorado with nearly all of my belongings in my truck and a 14 ft. enclosed trailer....into storage with it all...indefinitely

[Subike]

All those pics came out 100% ok
Thats a very nice Yammy road bike you have, I like the color.
You are going to love the adventure riding here, if you ever get off our awsome touring roads.
might just meet you at a southern rally during those 5 years

[MIXONE]

Welcome mate and being based in Wellywood for a while you'll find plenty of like minded bikers within a 15:rockon: minute ride no matter what or how you ride it.

[Hitcher]

A Yamaha FJR1300! Obviously you are a man of taste and discernment.

[James Deuce]

He won't be that until we send him home in a Taxi from the Mac's Bar.

[vifferman]

I'm 43 on the day you arrive.
:eek5:

That's like... really old, Man! :Pokey:

[gijoe1313]

Thanks for sharing your rides in US of A, always room for more bikers out this ways ... I'm sure you'll find plenty of good roads, dodgy cagers and some great company among the bikers of this land!

Dang, it must be a great feeling to go riding on roads in different parts of the world! (gotta do that myself ASAP!) :niceone:

[henry]

He won't be that until we send him home in a Taxi from the Mac's Bar.

Pfffftttttt. Malthouse mate. Get some real beer down him.

[NZsarge]

Hey mate, if you find yourself heading to/through the Lower Hawke's Bay/Manawatu regions give us a yell if you can. If it's the weekend we might be able to show 'round some of the better around these parts. :niceone:

[James Deuce]

Pfffftttttt. Malthouse mate. Get some real beer down him.
The Malthouse is "unprintable comment here" tacky now it's in Courtenay Place. It used to be a nice place in Willis St. Now it's just another crap pickup joint for syphilitic teenage whores.

[Bren]

I am sure you will love it over here, as long as you can handle some of the crappy weather we get....If ya dead keen then Otago is the place to go in June....gotta be mad to do the Brass Monkey....

[henry]

Now it's just another crap pickup joint for syphilitic teenage whores.

Are you sure you've got the right place? When ever I've been there, which is almost every night, it's full of IT wankers because they're the only ones who can afford to drink there. Syphilitic teenage whores are my favourite type and I can't remember seeing any :(

The beer is exceptional though.

[Hitcher]

He won't be that until we send him home in a Taxi from the Mac's Bar.

Roger that. Some people just can't handle choir practice...

[Broomrider]

Hi and welcome, when you get to the South Island let us know there's always room on our sofa for an extra... by the way "the Vet"... ex military veteran or a Veterinarian

[Bloody Mad Woman (BMW)]

All the exciting people are born in December lol - I've a birthday a week before yours. Lots of good riding here in New Zealand per se and people to ride with. Have a safe journey here.

Cheers

[the vet]

Am currently in Colorado. Had to pick a state to store my worldly belongings in (I should have just sold everything...but hard to let go). Colorado is the closest to what I call home here, and it has been a short, but nice visit, although waking up this am in the back of my truck at 20 degrees F was shocking---even the dog was shivering.....the dog is funny, I'm in a tiny little town in a tiny little coffee shop and my truck is parked across the street. My dog is sitting in the drivers seat just staring at my through the window of the shop...smart bugger.

Thanks again for the hospitable offers. I look forward to meeting new folks and taking some breathtaking rides. I'm a veterinarian by the way, no military service on my resume.

[Pedrostt500]

Yep welcome to the crazy house that is KB, we need a good Vet in here, as some of the members are sick Puppies.
There is good Sea and Fresh water fishing in the Wellington region, I have caught some good Trout in the Hutt river, and some good surf casting spots, around the region.

[SARGE]

ahhh.. my plan is coming together.. gathering together American Vets in a slow invasion ..should have the 12 of us necessary to take over NZ in no time...

[Bren]

I hope you are bringing your dog too...He is a good lookin fella

[James Deuce]

ahhh.. my plan is coming together.. gathering together American Vets in a slow invasion ..should have the 12 of us necessary to take over NZ in no time...
You need someone to look after your pack mules or something?

[SARGE]

You need someone to look after your pack mules or something?

mate.. with the lack of defense NZ has.. the mules could do it by themselves

[James Deuce]

You watch it or I'll hit you with my limp dish rag.

[SARGE]

You watch it or I'll hit you with my limp dish rag.

how'd you get ahold of NZ's advanced weaponry?

[wbks]

Sad but true :(

[laserracer]

You watch it or I'll hit you with my limp dish rag.
how'd you get ahold of NZ's advanced weaponry?
.................................................. .......................
WOW you mean they have superceded the damp paper towel:laugh::eek:

[Subike]

does that make my wet buss ticket usless :weep:

[the vet]

Put my stuff in storage in Colorado. Visited a friend for a few days in a little ski town called Telluride....one of the most beautiful little canyon towns in Colorado. Met a guy there who lived in NZ as a ski instructor for a year. He said, "if you like this place, you will love NZ".....I love Colorado.

Pics:
1&2) Woke up to this sunrise and this full Moon setting some 60 miles West of Salt Lake City, Utah...on my way from CA to CO.
3) The dog, as stated above, watching me sip a cup of tea while inside a little coffee shop in a small Colorado town called Paonia.
4) Small part of the San Juan Mountains which surround Telluride; photo shot from about 3000m altitude
5) Me and the dog discussing the merit of this photoshoot.

[the vet]

I guess you can only put up to 4 or so photos per message...?

[Hitcher]

I guess you can only put up to 4 or so photos per message...?

Indeed. But you can create an album on your profile page and link to it from the body of your message.

Here's a couple of photos of Telluride I prepared earlier...

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=209&pictureid=10209
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=209&pictureid=10207

[Broomrider]

how'd you get ahold of NZ's advanced weaponry?

Yeah but don't you love living in a country that doesn't need anything bigger than a fishing rod and a whitebaite net to defend itself....??? :beer::whistle:


Great pix by the way Vet...

[the vet]

Awesome photos. You've seen my favorite bits of this country, AND captured it more succinctly and eloquently than I ......I hope to be able to duplicate your efforts in NZ!

And I like to collect the photos in one place like that...but would like to interconnect the photos with more commentary, as they seem able to do over on ADVrider.com.....any ideas?

Thanks for the advice.

Pete

Indeed. But you can create an album on your profile page and link to it from the body of your message.

Here's a couple of photos of Telluride I prepared earlier...

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=209&pictureid=10209
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=209&pictureid=10207

[SARGE]

Yeah but don't you love living in a country that doesn't need anything bigger than a fishing rod and a whitebaite net to defend itself....??? :beer::whistle:


Great pix by the way Vet...

no.. frankly, in todays world it gives me the willies

[longwayfromhome]

Hey Vet

New to the site myself, just back from 11 years in the US, 8 on a bike, 120k+ miles. Mostly based in Philly, but have done all but 2 of the lower 48 states. I just love Colorado. The last year in the Bay area (Mountain View). Last trips were 4k miles thru canyon country of southern Utah, then a couple of runs up to Ft Bragg and the Avenue of the Giants. Favourite spot in the US is Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, which runs parallel to Beartooth Pass on the Montana/Wyoming border. You will love NZ.

Give me a yell when up this way (Auckland) and you can have a place to doss for the night or two.

[Lucy]

I'm worried about what's going to happen to the dog.

[JATZ]

This may help with embedding images.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=78966

just don't go silly with it

[slimjim]

well you're going to go well with the way the kiwi dollar has dropped....and yes reckon you will find around new zealand that our steam's and lakes are full of trout, plenty of fly-fishing-spinning ,our beach's easy to surfcast..many a local to share seafood.kina's,crayfish,mussel's etc...wish you all the best down under...and yup got plenty of room to bed down if in the hawkes bay too, (hastings)..

[the vet]

Hey Vet

New to the site myself, just back from 11 years in the US, 8 on a bike, 120k+ miles. Mostly based in Philly, but have done all but 2 of the lower 48 states. I just love Colorado. The last year in the Bay area (Mountain View). Last trips were 4k miles thru canyon country of southern Utah, then a couple of runs up to Ft Bragg and the Avenue of the Giants. Favourite spot in the US is Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, which runs parallel to Beartooth Pass on the Montana/Wyoming border. You will love NZ.

Give me a yell when up this way (Auckland) and you can have a place to doss for the night or two.

Will be in Auckland starting Dec 7. Have a place to stay, and will be on my way to Hamilton to pick up a bike.....DL-650 V-strom.....Will look you up if I create some time. Would love to share some stories and get some advice...maybe time for a beer early next week.

Email me so I can put your info in my laptop: srndptee@gmail.com

Pete

[the vet]

I'm worried about what's going to happen to the dog.

Ah the dog...Murphy...I will miss him more than anything else I'm leaving behind, with the FJR a close second. But he is in good hands. Gets to live in the same house with close friends who are retired and also have a dog...Murphy's best friend Woody. He is in excellent hands. The trip and the quarantine (at least a month) would be hard on him, and I only want to do it once....so if I decide I want to try to make NZ a permanent move, I'll come back to the US to settle some other affairs and take him back to NZ with me....and he is just a bit too big for me to tour with on motorcycle.

[the vet]

Aww crap, I'll study that link (how to embed photos) on the plane....may take me 17 hours to figure out.....any Clif notes for that? do you have Clif notes in NZ?

[Lucy]

Ah the dog...Murphy...I will miss him more than anything else I'm leaving behind, with the FJR a close second. But he is in good hands. Gets to live in the same house with close friends who are retired and also have a dog...Murphy's best friend Woody. He is in excellent hands. The trip and the quarantine (at least a month) would be hard on him, and I only want to do it once....so if I decide I want to try to make NZ a permanent move, I'll come back to the US to settle some other affairs and take him back to NZ with me....and he is just a bit too big for me to tour with on motorcycle.

Phew, ok then, as you were.....:yes:

[munterk6]

Isnt Telluride where Tom Cruiser lives? I saw a show on tele with Oprah at his mansion in Telluride....what a joint that place is, man, its BBBBBIIIIIIIIIIIGGGGGG! :buggerd:

[the vet]

yea, I can rant about that for a good long time. Cruise, Oprah and a bunch of other multi-billionaires own loads of land with huge homes in some of the most beautiful places in this country. They buy up the land, post it no trespassing, and spend a couple weeks a year there......the revolution is coming...

[klingon]

Hiya, Mr Vet and welcome to NZ! (are you on the plane yet?)

For those who didn't notice, Mr Vet is a Veterinarian, not a Veteran. Much more useful IMO.
You -->:doctor:<-- Mr Vet

Mr Vet, did you notice Kiwibiker has a blog area? It's not as active as the forums, but if you don't want people interrupting your narrative with the kind of commentary you've been getting so far, the blog is the place to be. Anything you post in the forums will soon deteriorate into a free-for-all.

[munterk6]

Yeah, you tell em Klingon! we cant have deterioration now can we....
its called CONVERSATION ok? :innocent:

[klingon]

Yeah, you tell em Klingon! we cant have deterioration now can we....
its called CONVERSATION ok? :innocent:

Oh so THAT'S what's going on! All this time I've been wondering why people insist on interrupting my witty soliloquy.

[the vet]

Hiya, Mr Vet and welcome to NZ! (are you on the plane yet?)

For those who didn't notice, Mr Vet is a Veterinarian, not a Veteran. Much more useful IMO.
You -->:doctor:<-- Mr Vet

Mr Vet, did you notice Kiwibiker has a blog area? It's not as active as the forums, but if you don't want people interrupting your narrative with the kind of commentary you've been getting so far, the blog is the place to be. Anything you post in the forums will soon deteriorate into a free-for-all.

Thanks for the tip. I was unaware, I may take it up there.....the trip really begins tomorrow for me. The adventure begins........after a bit more stress, a sleepless night cramming my last belongings into small spaces...and a mad scramble for the airport with overweight luggage.

[chanceyy]

Good luck with your trip over & safe travels .. :yes:

[hondav2]

[QUOTE=the vet;1816348]Put my stuff in storage in Colorado. Visited a friend for a few days in a little ski town called Telluride....one of the most beautiful little canyon towns in Colorado. Met a guy there who lived in NZ as a ski instructor for a year. He said, "if you like this place, you will love NZ".....I love Colorado.

I stayd in Ouray for a week and rode the Ophir, Imogene (13,114 ft ) Cinnamon 12,640ft , Engineer 12,800ft, California 12,930ft, Hurricane and Corkscrew Passes. I was told not to take my DR650 over the Black Bear , arsed up twice on the steps , no fun picking up a heavy bike at that altitude on a steep rocky face but made it. Next time I will hav better gearing and tyres. I rode 75,000km around Nth America. Contact me when u r down the south Is and we can hav a beer. Hav a look at www.toddy.smugmug.com lots of south Is and Nth America pics Cheers Toddy

[Hitcher]

The run from (hip hip) Ouray to Durango was a particular highlight for me. We'd stopped there for ice cream on our way out from Telluride. There was roadworks just through the tunnel at the top of the switchback above town. Despite the presence of rednecks with big guns, we moseyed up towards the head of the queue. We must have waited for nearly an hour for the Go flag to drop. After passing a couple of trucks, we had no traffic in front of us until we reached Silverton. The whole road had just been resealed with really nice black top. Big Yam loved it. I want to go back.

[the vet]

arrived Sunday (7/12) morning where I was met bright and early by my Auckland area hosts. They whisked me off to their home in the Auckland area. It was a gorgeous clear sunny day and looking out over the water from their back deck, listening to the birds, I thought, "this is like waking up in paradise every day". I got a nap and then went with them for a 14K tramp on the section of motorway being built meant to reroute traffic from 1 for folks traveling north to Whangarei and such; a good stretch for my legs after sitting more or less for 12 hours. Since then, they have been feeding me well and helping me get situated. I hopped on as pillion yesterday and we rode down to Hamilton----my first experience with NZ rain and Auckland traffic. The good news is that my host is an excellent pilot and my wet weather gear works; all but the gloves which were soaked through. No hassles picking up my 05 DL 650 V Strom from a super nice fella in Hamilton, and then back up to Auckland in more rain. My expectations are met with the bike....very happy. The rest of the afternoon spent trying to afix luggage racks to the bike (Jesse bags and a Givi topcase), used, which I acquired in the States and then checked as luggage on the plane. After a bit of modification, it all should work out fine. Today, we will go for a tour of more of the regions north to see the sights and test the bike on a bit of metal/gravel. Tomorrow I will take the ferry to Auckland for a bit of tourism in the city and to meet up with my future employer on whom I will unload some of the things I brought with me for work in February (which will be in Wellington---they will shuttle this down to Wellington for me---it will be a relief to unload that stuff).

In all, although I feel like I am still getting settled, I feel very happy, content, and....well.....liberated by being here. I can't thank my hosts enough for their generosity in making me feel at home and for helping me in this initial transition. The plan will be to set out this weekend for the Coromandel area and then some East Coast Beaches for some sun and surf. Then rather quickly down to the South Island after some brief stops in Hamilton (need to give proper thanks to the KBers who helped inspect my bike for me) and Wellington (to check out where I'll be working). I may try to hook up with a group traveling down south during the holidays. If anyone has more specifics on the itinerary of that group (and wouldn't mind an additional rider for parts), post here or email/pm me. I think it would be nice to join for the crossing----should I reserve now for that, or will I be OK last minute?

Happy in NZ,
the vet

[Hitcher]

Please give us a yell when you're in or near Wellington.

[keithbuckby]

hope your trip goes well

[Ally67]

might pay to book the ferry at this time of the year

[the vet]

4 days in the country, and I'm already in the police system....speeding ticket last night following another KBer. He got tagged in front of me, and trying to be a law abiding citizen in a new country, and a gracious guest to my host, I also pulled over when the cop pulled out behind both of us.....sat there waiting while he was writing the ticket for my host.....then he walked over and gave me one:doh:

Lesson learned.....keep going?

Traveling to Coromandel region tomorrow and then down the East Coast on my way to Welly and the S. Island. Hope to cross before Christmas and tour the S. Island Jan and early February. Want to thank all those extending hospitable offers. If I miss you folks on the N. Island on my down this time, I'll be back around to say hello and see the N. Island more thoroughly during or after my locum in Welligton.

Cheers,
Pete

[the vet]

The ride over today was unbelievably beautiful....the bright sunny day helped. Will post some pics in the next day or two.

Eternally grateful to my Auckland hosts. They made me feel at home, helped me get the bike ready to go, took me for a few rides. I felt like I was leaving folks this am I have known a lot longer than 5 days. I know their philosophy is to pay forward the kindness they shared, and I will, but I hope I can repay them directly some day....awesome folks.

[Blackbird]

You could have waited and used our 'pooter, haha. Suppose you're chatting up the local chicks in town:clap:

[Mrs Busa Pete]

The ride over today was unbelievably beautiful....the bright sunny day helped. Will post some pics in the next day or two.

Eternally grateful to my Auckland hosts. They made me feel at home, helped me get the bike ready to go, took me for a few rides. I felt like I was leaving folks this am I have known a lot longer than 5 days. I know their philosophy is to pay forward the kindness they shared, and I will, but I hope I can repay them directly some day....awesome folks.

Good to hear you had a great day for the start of your epic journey take care don't forget to take it all in.

[SixPackBack]

Nice to meet you Pete, good luck with the travels:cool:

[Blackbird]

Pete has just left our place to go offroad to the northern tip of the Coro Peninsula and plans to camp overnight at Fletchers Bay. He's back tomorrow morning and will then continue his wanderings down the east coast and East Cape itself en route to Wellington.

Pete's a top guy, really great company so if anyone wants to offer a feed or a bed down his route, you won't be disappointed:2thumbsup.

[the vet]

The Coromandel peninsula is stunning. Blue water, lush green hillsides, the bush just meters from the beach.....Coromandel town was cool. Quaint, a little 'hippy', quiet....I really liked it. Blackbird and Mrs. were superb hosts to me...and once again, I am sincerely grateful and fortunate to have met them, the two cats, and today, their daughter. They have an awesome view from the deck of the house....seems to be common in my NZ experience so far.

Ventured up the the Northern tip of the peninsula. The roads in good condition, but narrow and windy with blind corners and cars coming at me much of the way up. Camped for the night at Fletchers Bay. Ate 3 meals of smoked fish, Blackbirds homemade bread and apples. Did a total of about 4 hours hiking yesterday and feel whipped today after the ride and a rough sleep in hard ground last night. Tomorrow I invest in a sleeping pad....I stick it in the space on the inside of my luggage rack that busapete thought would make for a good false exhaust storage tube. Began south along the East coast today and find myself in Whangamata. The place is deserted right now, but I'm told 50,000 holiday revelers will soon be here...glad I have it to myself now. A couple days here to surf and tramp (Wentworth Falls), then off again. The bike and luggage configuration working well...can't complain. Will try to do some pics here. They will be in order of my trip, from AKL, off at Manurewa, through Clevedon, Thames, to Coromandel town, up to Fletchers Bay.

Stopped at a farmers market on the way to Coromandel for some fresh bread and mussel fritters

Pete

[the vet]

More pics of the Coromandel leg

[the vet]

First two photos from my tramp above Fletchers bay. We'll call the trees with red blooms "the trees that I can't pronounce"...pohutukawa??? is that right.

The following is Blackbirds cat Henry perched on the deck railing with the beautiful view in the background, and the Wee strom parked after the first leg of the journey.

Pete

hmmm, seems photos did not post...may be out of internet MB usage

[the vet]

here we go....as above

that's better

[klingon]

First two photos from my tramp above Fletchers bay. We'll call the trees with red blooms "the trees that I can't pronounce"...pohutukawa??? is that right.

...

Pohutukawa is right. Colloquially the New Zealand Christmas Tree. The true meaning of coastal summer holidays for most kiwis! :niceone:
(Stunning photos by the way.)

[Mrs Busa Pete]

Hay Where the hell is this wonder gone we are waiting for up date mate. Hate to think you have gone and got yourself lost.:rolleyes:

[Nasty]

Contacted me to say down here around 21/12 .... offered bed am waiting for more contact and details.

[the vet]

Decided to abandon the coast. Had to thank kickingzebra for his help, so went through Hamilton, then down to Te kitui (sp?) last night, then down to Palmerstown N. in the rain today. Feeling some urgency to get to the South Island and have things I need to do before the holiday (tyres and submission of work permit application) in Wellington. Shot through the rest of the North Island, but will be back for a more thorough tour during or after my locum in Welly. Will catch up with Nasty tomorrow. Will post a more thorough report and more pics (lost gold mines, wild boars, late night backpackers and unsociable germans......) when I have more internet time.

Good news is I stayed dry on the inside all day today, and the bike running flawlessly. Now off to the Pub! I've been living in a tent for 3 days....got to get out!

[the vet]

Based on some sound advice from Klingon and Nasty, I've taken the report to a blog. I'll note updates to the blog in this thread, and continue to use it for other pertinent info, but the tale and photos will be at the blog here:
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/blogs/viewblog.php?userid=19532

I am still trying to work out embedding photos in the blog, for now I can only do links...will work on it..

Moving on to the South Island for Christmas. No real itinerary, but based on local advice will watch the weather patterns and head to the West when and if the winds are from the south and the weather looking more clear....just plodding along. Will be 6 weeks or so in the South Island, so email or PM me if anyone down would like to catch up for a beer or a ride.

Thanks a bunch to Nasty for her hospitality and help here in Wellington.

[portokiwi]

:niceone: Great to see you are enjoying godszone. Shame about our kiwi summers.
Keeps you on your toes:clap:
Have fun mate

[NZsarge]

Sorry we missed you on your way through Palmy (Palmerston North) mate, maybe on your way back.

[xknuts]

KB Day ride out of Cromwell, Central Otago, Monday 29th Dec. Ya welcome to jion.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=60357&page=4

[the vet]

NZSarge, will look you up next time I'm up that way.

XKnuts, thanks for the invite, but won't be that far south by time of the ride.

Merry Christmas to both, I'll be spending the holidays around Nelson/Golden Bay and will then be working my way South, probably by way of the west coast first......time to do some fly fishing!

[the vet]

New blog entry here for anyone interested. This one more about my experience, a bit less about the bike or specific events. Link to pics as well.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/blogs/viewblog.php?userid=19532&entry=559

[the vet]

When I get a bit more time, I'll update again with some photos. For now, plan on leaving Golden Bay tomorrow and heading to ChCh over the next couple of days.

Cheers, Pete

[SDU]

Sweet yell out when you're here.
How long to you think you're be in the area, always catch you about on a ride somewhere.

[the vet]

update over the past 4-5 days: visit the blog: http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/blogs/viewblog.php?userid=19532&entry=561

[the vet]

Have been a few days in ChCh with some business focus/research, and a day ride with another local KBer to Akaroa.

See the blog update with photo links here: http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/blogs/viewblog.php?userid=19532&entry=568

Off to Kaikoura tonight, back to ChCh for a friday night, then off to the West Saturday.

Pete

[the vet]

I'd like to do a good trip in the Fiordslands......I'd rather do the less touristy, so think Doubtful sound would be best. I am looking for a good tour outfit that I can do a 3-5 day combined camping and kayaking trip in Doubtful sound. I have read a bit here and there, but looking for recommendations based on peoples experience. Anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks

Pete

[Nasty]

I'd like to do a good trip in the Fiordslands......I'd rather do the less touristy, so think Doubtful sound would be best. I am looking for a good tour outfit that I can do a 3-5 day combined camping and kayaking trip in Doubtful sound. I have read a bit here and there, but looking for recommendations based on peoples experience. Anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks

Pete

Heya Pete .. doubtful definately better thank Milford as way less tourists ... unsure of any groups that do it though .. hopefully someone can help. If not go the the local Information centre.

Kari

[Blackbird]

Heya Pete .. doubtful definately better thank Milford as way less tourists ... unsure of any groups that do it though .. hopefully someone can help. If not go the the local Information centre.

Kari

Ditto Pete,

I don't think Milford Sound is to be missed (especially the Milford Road on your bike) but Doubtful Sound is definitely the better of the two for kayaking. Ahhhh.... I was actually on a powered boat in DS but as a regular kayaker, I can vouch for my comments:done:

Geoff

[Nasty]

Ditto Pete,

I don't think Milford Sound is to be missed (especially the Milford Road on your bike) but Doubtful Sound is definitely the better of the two for kayaking. Ahhhh.... I was actually on a powered boat in DS but as a regular kayaker, I can vouch for my comments:done:

Geoff

Its really stunning ... I did it on a powered boat as well with Grub ... very not touristy :)

[gijoe1313]

Excellent to hear you are still getting on with going on! A pity we didn't get a chance to meet up somewhere in SI! Truly a great place to spend time riding around!

Hopefully somewhere along the line we can catch up. I'm forever riding the highways and by-ways of this quaint little country of ours!

[munterk6]

Hey Pete, heres some info on doubtful sound tours...I went to Manapouri Power Station 2 years ago and this tour company was recommended by the locals. Absolute slice of heaven!! Check it out man, I wanna do the boat trip on Doubtful sound as soon as I can!
http://www.realjourneys.co.nz/Main/Doubtful/
http://www.realjourneys.co.nz/Main/DoubtfulSoundOvernightCruise/

[Mrs Busa Pete]

I'd like to do a good trip in the Fiordslands......I'd rather do the less touristy, so think Doubtful sound would be best. I am looking for a good tour outfit that I can do a 3-5 day combined camping and kayaking trip in Doubtful sound. I have read a bit here and there, but looking for recommendations based on peoples experience. Anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks

Pete

Shit mate nearly a month since your last post you havn't got lost down there have you.

[portokiwi]

Hope you are enjoying your time mate

[Hinny]

Shit mate nearly a month since your last post .

It's not really good enough is it?

[Nasty]

Aren't you due to start work next week???? Look forward to hearing from you.

[the vet]

Sorry all, have been busy one adventure into another. So much to catch up on. Suffice to say that I'm fine. In Blenheim right now, getting on the ferry tonight, start work on Monday in Wellington.

Have loads of pictures and stories to share, will have more time to do that in Wellington in the next two weeks.

Look for the post: "2 months, 8000 km, 3 bee stings......"

coming soon.....

Kari, will give a call this weekend to say hi share pics and pic up my few knick knacks.

Pete

[Hinny]

He's alive! ,,,,,,,,,,,:niceone:

[longwayfromhome]

He's alive! ,,,,,,,,,,,:niceone:

....and sounding more and more like one of us.....

[the vet]

...and so much more. Here I sit in Wellington, my new 'home' for now, with a flatmate I've known about 3 days. The first part of my NZ journey is over, the work phase begins tomorrow; 6 months in a vet practice in Animates here in Wellington. I spent just a bit of time on the North Island after arriving Dec 7. I saw a bit around the North Auckland area, and then Coromandel, then directly to the South Island where I was touring since I crossed on Dec 23.
The bike: The wee strom I picked up off of TradeMe in Hamilton turned out to be perfect for me, complemented with Jesse panniers and a givi topcase which I brought with me from the States. Added a set of TKC 80s in Wellington which proved a good decision as they held the road well wet or dry, and took me on gravel and 4wd roads and through water crossings over the footpegs deep...sometimes it seemed way over the footpegs deep....the bike stayed upright the entire trip. No mechanical issues, never faltered when starting up, never failed me on any surface attempted and a full tank range of over 400km. It turned out to be a good choice for me on this trip.

[the vet]

My travel bible was the NZ Motorcycle Atlas (Hema Maps) authored by Peter Mitchell. Good maps with highlighted and rated routes with commentary about each highlighted route. Bonus; Most DOC campgrounds, fishing spots and other notable details marked on the maps. I arrived Picton later evening and took the Queen Charlotte in the dark. Made my way to Nelson, explored Motueka valley for some camping and fishing, stayed Golden Bay for a few days including the Aorere R up to the Heaphy track trailhead, and up to the top where I took the gravel road West around Whanganui Inlet and then down the West coast about as far as the Anatori R. I then left Golden Bay and made my way down the Motueka valley again to Murchison, backtracked to St. Arnaud and then took the Rainbow Rd along the Wairau and then Clarence Rivers down to Hanmer Springs where I spent New Years Eve. From Hanmer I travelled a fairly direct route to Christchurch where I spent a fair amount of time networking with local vets and learning about that market there. I met one vet who took me to his bach by Lake Coleridge and we fished together for 3-4 days. I stayed a few days in ChCh with 2 other local vets, one of whom's partners took me on a 6 hour day tour of Akaroa including the gravel hill roads.....on a beautiful day....thanks again Kenny!
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=1353&pictureid=14322
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=1353&pictureid=14182
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=1353&pictureid=14177
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=1353&pictureid=14166
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=1353&pictureid=14161

[the vet]

A quick overnight trip up to Kaikoura was mostly disappointment because of how overwhelming the tourism was....although the inland route (took the coastal road up and the inland back) and Kaikoura itself were gorgeous. I watched the weather and when the NW winds ceased, I headed West from ChCh over Arthurs Pass and on to Kumara where I spent a day and night at the horse races....a relief to be away from other tourists and among Kiwis enjoying that event on yet another beautiful day. And I won 3 place bets which paid for my food and drink for the day....bonus! From Kumara I had a date with some wilderness river fishing in the Reefton area, actually near to Ikamatua. I stopped in Blackball on the way there and spent about 2 hrs at "Formerly, the Blackball Hilton" talking to the owner and looking at the photo albums of local residents dating back to 1997. It seems like a pretty cool little and tight knit community, and Blackball is in a beautiful location with wonderful scenery. The owner is an avid motorbiker and commented that he would love to have his place known as a bike stop or destination.....ALL BIKERS WELCOME AT THE BLACKBALL HILTON! Its a must destination if you are doing the West Coast! I fished (note: all my river fishing with fly rod) a relatively inaccessible river by walking upstream (in the river, no track) for about 10 km where I camped 2 nights and fished for some beautiful big wild brown trout (see thumbnail above)...again the weather was perfect, the fishing great and the NZ bush beautiful....I didn't see another person for 3 days. After getting my fly fishing and NZ brown trout fix, I headed south down the coast. Mistake or not, I decided to leave Westport and Karamea for another time.
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=1353&pictureid=14480
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=1353&pictureid=14479
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=1353&pictureid=14468
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=1353&pictureid=14477
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=1353&pictureid=18050
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=1353&pictureid=18043

[Mrs Busa Pete]

It sound like you have had the exsperance that most kiwis never do. I guess you are now fluten in the six differant diologs of new zealand. Bugger you have to start work now to save for the next adventure ( north island).

I didn't think you had 5kg spare to loss there mate you had better start eating up a storm to replace it.

[the vet]

On the lower stretches of my wilderness river a herd of cows had been turned out to a fairly remote pasture, when one of a few of them saw me fishing in the river, they all charged over for a look. They stood there watching me with amazing curiosity. And when I crossed the river to fish the other side, they even began to follow me. One of them even came a bit into the river, looked back to see if others were following, then continued to follow me across, getting about 2/3 of the way across before he turned back....I got a good laugh out of their curiosity.
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=1353&pictureid=17998
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=1353&pictureid=17996
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=1353&pictureid=17977
I think that last one wanted to come home with me.

I had to stop and take a photo of this sign near Greymouth. The true meaning behind the expression...."cheap as shit"......
....but my ever frugal nature had me wondering as I drove away from the sign...."I wonder how big the bag is..."

[the vet]

I stopped in Hokitika to wander around a bit and check email and get some lunch at a little bakery which I ate on the beach. Mailed my broken fly rod back to Wellington (which appears to be lost...bugger!), went to the bank, then off again. It was good to be on the bike again, the road good, the sights awesome. I stopped in a little town called Hari Hari and decided to stay for 2 days. I'd had enough of my tent and got a little motel room. I got dragged back to the States when I checked email---my grandma dying in the hospital, old unresolved phone bill issues and my house--old renters moving out, new ones moving in....the real world is a drag. I spoke to local folks, tried to help the motel owner with her limping duck, fished a stream called the LaFontaine R. and was blown away by the size of some domestic red deer---big as the Elk I am used to hunting for in Colorado!

[the vet]

The morning I left Hari Hari heading south to the Glaciers, I got a dose of the West coast rain....downpour. In no time flat there were torrents coming down out of the bush and flooding on the road. The rivers were raging. Until this time I'd experienced only little rain (the most being the day BusaPete and I drove down to Hamilton to pick up my bike). My feet stayed dry, my pants only leaked a bit at the seams in the crotch, hands wet because water running down the sleeves of my coat, jacket soaked through in spots. The Givi remained rain proof, but I did get some dampness (minimal) in the Jesse's. I felt like I couldn't get totally dry for the next 2 days. By the time I got to Franz Joseph, the rain was slowing down, but it stayed drizzly and grey for 2 days. I spent most of the day soaking in some hot pools in town and spent the night in a dorm room after talking with some young Czech republic guys and drinking cheap wine for much of the evening. Franz Joseph another busy tourist town....mostly European young backpackers. I visited both glaciers on a gray day the next day and then kept moving south. The glaciers are pretty cool, even if you have seen glaciers before. Their proximity to rain forest and the steepness with which they descend over short distance makes them kind of unique in my mind.

[the vet]

Driving south after stopping at the glaciers was kind of an indecisive day. I was going to go all the way to Jackson Bay, eat at a seafood restaurant the Cray Pot and then camp. There was a tramp and even a DOC hut right on the shore and charter fishing in case I wanted to try some sea fishing. But along the way I learned the hut was closed for rebuilding and the Cray Pot was closed. So turned around and went to Haast. Stopped at the Antlers for a beer and some research, then decided to just keep going.

Now, that stretch of road, from Haast to Wanaka was the most beautiful for me so far on the trip. Huge beautiful braided river valley, lush steep hillsides, waterfalls everywhere....the Gates of Haast, the pass, the deep ravine...man that place was awesome. I stopped on the South side of the pass and camped at Cameron flat DOC grounds, ate a sardine sandwich for dinner, fished in the Makaroa R until the sun set and then went to sleep.

[the vet]

love this photo....looking down from the road at the site of the last photo. Easy to miss from the road because really no place to stop, and the density of the canopy from the trees makes the height you are actually at seem a lot less.

[the vet]

Again, I was put off by the tourism and the "too cool for school" attitudes in Wanaka and Queenstown. I stayed at a campsite outside of Wanaka for one night. I asked for some local fishing hints from the shop in town and got completely shut down...the guy in the shop would give me NO information..."I guide, so Im not going to tell everyone where to fish, they'll all be on my spots the next time I'm out" While I can understand this logic, it still pisses me off. I've never been in a fly shop in the States where they refuse to offer some local knowledge....more often than not they have the local spots listed on a board with river conditions and current hatches......as in Wanaka, the same happened to me in Queenstown. At the very least, I'll never buy anything from either shop in the future. All t hat said, both locations are beautiful, so I can understand why they are desirable locations to live and visit, but after the West coast, too much tourism and commercialism for me. I drove up to Glenorchy and explored the Rees valley and did some fishing up there; stayed the night there after giving some young french tramper a ride back to town as he was limping pretty badly and just looked totally exhausted and underprepared. He must of just come off of one of the tracks coming down into the Rees valley.

[the vet]

The highlight of my visit to Wanaka/Queenstown was a day of guided off road riding. Touristy, a bit. Costly, yes......but I needed that fix, and have to say it was worth it. One guide, me and a 24 yr kid from Canada, DRZ 400s, 72 miles....a great day. The Canadian spoke pretty highly of himself as a rider, but admitted he hadn't been riding in a year. Suffice to say that 72 miles, river crossings, steep ups and downs, rocky terrain, sweet single track, and leaving the trail entirely on 2 different occasions, he was totally spent. At nearly twice his age, I was all grins....freakin awesome day. Give him credit though, he was in over his head and he did stick it out making the best of it.

[the vet]

Thanks to the NZ motorcycle atlas, I left Queenstown by the road less travelled. I put the wee strom on the 1912 steamer TSS Earnslow in Queenstown and got off at Walter Peak on the other side of the lake. I took the gravel Mavora Lakes rd through some beauty country with nearly no one else on the road. Parts of the road were recently graded and there was areas of deep gravel which were a bit of a bitch, but the ride was great. I didn't have much food with me but figured I could get some fish while camping and fishing at Mavora Lakes. The first night camped at Mavora Lakes, while making a peanut butter sandwich for dinner, a pickup of 4 Kiwis from Invercargill came rolling up. They had some beers in them and were having a great time, just cruising the campground talking to folks. They invited me back to their camp for beers and Paua dinner! here i was without much else than peanut butter and a can or sardines, and suddenly I'm in good company drinking beers and eating a seafood delicacy. Paua is abalone for you readers back home. SWEET! I spent a total of 4 nights there, 2 in the campground and 2 up in a hut after taking the bike 12 km down a 4WD ride, then hiked the remaining 5-6 Km into the hut where i spent a day and a half fishing the upper Mararoa river. I took a ride to Te Anau for supplies about halfway through my days there.

[the vet]

Was drinking the water from the river cause didn't have anything to boil in....probably picked up some Giardia..good thing I'm a vet, will just prescribe myself something. unlabeled pic is the TSS Earnslow as it is pulling away from Walter Peak

[the vet]

When I went into Te Anau for supplies while at Mavora Lakes, I signed on for a 5 day kayak trip into Doubtful sound, but had some time to kill prior to that. So I made my way over to Dundedin where I spent 2 nights and then took the Southern Scenic route over to Invercargill, then back up to Te Anau. I stopped at Nugget point to see the 'nuggets' and the lighthouse. I spent the night at Curio Bay to view Hector Dolphins, yellow eyed penguins and the petrified trees on the shore. From Dunedin I also spent a day out on the Otago peninsula and checked out the Albatross reserve.

[the vet]

As I passed through Riverton, people were stopped on the bridge, so I stopped. A pod of bottlenose dolphins were inland and heading back out to sea. Awesome to watch them so close.

[the vet]

Maybe the highlight of this trip was 5 days kayaking and camping in Doubtful sound. Unfortunately there is no way for someone like me (perhaps anyone) to do this trip without a tour guide; thus my second big expense during my tour of the S. Island....but again, worth it. I went back to Te Anau and took a half day to drive up to Milford sound. Beautiful, but a gray and drizzly day, so the views somewhat obscured. The road and immediate scenery are awesome though. I stayed in Te Anau at a campground, and then a night at a backpackers called Bob and Maxines. I recommend it. Nice accommodation, plenty of space, clean. Bob has an R1150R in immaculate shape with some nice extras. He and his partner both super nice people. He let me store my bike out of the weather at his place while I was out on my trip.

The kayak trip was not luxurious in the least. Brought and cooked my own food. A lot of hauling, loading and unloading the kayaks, setting up camps in wilderness campsites, and lots of paddling each day. That said, its the kind of trip I like to take, physically spent at the end of the day. Doubtful sound is amazing. They get an average 7 meters of rainfall per year, which lends to its beauty by creating numerous amazing waterfalls, but we had only one night of a slight drizzel, one and a half days of partial clouds and moderate winds and the rest of the time it was sun and glass seas which was awesome. My paddling mate was a very enthusiastic Dutch guy who had been traveling alone for almost 3 months. Really nice guy, lots of energy. This enabled us twice to paddle fast enough to get up close to pods of dolphin and whales----none of the others in the group could get there fast enough, or didn't have the interest, so I lucked out with Ron from the Netherlands! We got some awesome video of these amazing animals.

[the vet]

Have to share more photos from the sound. We had such beautiful weather. I think I have one of Ron the 'dutch boy' digging in with the paddle.

[the vet]

...oops, and another shot of the 'gravel lanes' on the Mavora Lakes Rd.

[the vet]

Spent one night after kayaking at Bob and Maxine's again in Te Anau, and then went straight to Twizel to catch the Area 9 music festival: http://www.nzlive.com/nzlivecom/area-9

The festival was a blast although I think I may have been the oldest one there:rockon:, but I did burn 2.5 days and I was running out of time. So I feel like I did not spend adequate time in Otago or the Mackenzie country which I really loved. Next time.

By this point I was needing to be in Wellington for work in just a matter of days, and I'm sure I missed out on some Otago sights, off road riding and fishing. I met up with Ron the Dutchman and we went to Mt Cook where we did a small day hike up to Hooker Lake to view Mt. Cook. The wind was blowing unbelievably hard, but the views were amazing. It was about as close as I came the entire trip to losing control of the bike on the stretch south from Mt. Cook. A gust was so strong and sudden, it nearly blew me off the road. After Mt. Cook, it was on to Lake Tekapo, then a dash back to Wellington (with one night in Blenheim and some time for wine tasting) on roads mostly already traveled.

[the vet]

I really like the Collie monument at Lake Tekapo....reminded me of my dog...who I miss quite a bit.

Well, over 9000km and two months later, those are the highlights of my trip. Some of the details in between I'll eventually fill in in the blog, but for now, back to the real world....I have to be at work 7:30 tomorrow morning:beer:

Oh yeah, bee stings.....2 in the face riding with open shield and one that went right down my shirt and stung me on the belly when I was standing on the bike to stretch my legs while on the Rainbow Rd.....I can live with that....its this Wellington traffic which will be the end of me.

[longwayfromhome]

Well, no one can accuse you of not giving it a go Pete.....I think you clapped on to the best summer in many a long year...more self-manufactured "luck" for you.

Save those pennies for the North Island, maybe we'll all see you for a couple of minutes along the way.

[Hinny]

..more self-manufactured "luck" for you.


He's a jammy bastard isn't he. :third:

I'm very envious.

[SDU]

Awesome pics & great story of your trip.
Pity we missed you while you were down this way.
We avoid those highly tourist areas, but that is bad service not to at least give a little advice on where you can go, most places have information centres that will give you free advice and talking to some locals will help.
We rode down south through the inland route to Alexander for a bike rally on the same weekend off Area9. Pity we didn't bump into you at tekapo. Hope you found a better place than us for food & coffee in tekapo than us, we even warned off a tourist biker off from where we were eating, the service was bad & the food average at best.
You must get back down through there to do that ride it is beautiful down there.
Hope Animates keeps you busy

[Road Warrior]

Hello Pete,
Found your post on AVD pointing me towards this thread. Man you know how to pack a lot of territory into a small amount of time! :Punk:
Funny you spent a bunch of time in Western CO..I was born in GJ now in Hotchkiss. Still haven't done all of the good roads. :no: Your friend in Telluride was right, a lot of the South Island looks like western CO for sure. But one of the reasons I would like to moves is I am just tired of winter. I only got about 225 inches of snow so far this winter but for some reason it has really worked on my mind.:cold:
You shot some amazing territory for sure. Looks like you are on the way now. I am working on a 2 week trip in the June-Aug area..making my list and checking it twice :cool:
Thanks for the link :apint:
Gary
<a href="http://img140.imageshack.us/my.php?image=shopdoors.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/2135/shopdoors.th.jpg" border="0" /></a>

[Kemet]

Spent one night after kayaking at Bob and Maxine's again in Te Anau, and then went straight to Twizel to catch the Area 9 music festival: http://www.nzlive.com/nzlivecom/area-9
... and I'm sure I missed out on some Otago sights, off road riding and fishing. I met up with Ron the Dutchman and we went ...

That last picture with the full moon at night from the post I quoted....

Was that at lake tekapo by any chance....

Also next time you down Tekapo way, if you're game enough, try the road that goes up to the Mt John observatory!! Skinny as **** in a car, switch-backs most of the way up! I'm sure you'd love it.

Next time you're in the South Island drop us a post on the Dunedin Rides thread... we'll sort ya out there!!

[the vet]

Hey Gary, glad you found the thread. Let me know if I can be of help in any way. I love Hotchkiss....that whole area. I grew up with winters and then 9 years in Colorado.....9 years then in CA, and I miss the winter....I think....i have to admit, I may no longer be used to the cold.....

Kemet, That night photo was indeed Tekapo, one night off of the full moon. I will surely look you up when I'm back your way.

Pete

[Road Warrior]

Pete,
Thanks, I will take you up on that when I get a little closer. I spent a good bit of time in Port Hueneme, and some in NorCal.
Commercial property in the South Island seems to be a lot cheaper..love the scenery also. But the North seems to have quite a bit better weather...we shall see. :wait:
A good friend sent me these pics as he is doing everything possible to discourage me. And of course I HATE snakes :no:
I think these are from Australia but he claims different. :nono:
Gary
<img src="http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/7986/snakeg.jpg" alt="Image Hosted by ImageShack.us" />
-
<img src="http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/3766/snake1.jpg" alt="Image Hosted by ImageShack.us" />

[NZsarge]

And of course I HATE snakes :no:


Dude, that's one evil lookin' creature, no snakes here mate. :D

[Road Warrior]

no snakes here mate.
That is good to know :Punk: That thing looks like its got a GSXR half way down
:laugh:
Gary

[Hinny]

... no snakes here mate. :D

There are a few.
I fired one yesterday.

[NZsarge]

That is good to know :Punk: That thing looks like its got a GSXR half way down
:laugh:
Gary

Best place for a Gixxer too. :niceone: :laugh:

[the vet]

Finished work and finishing my chapter in Wellington. Getting ready for another 4 week tour, this time of parts of the North Island I have yet to see. Will take some time to update blog and recount my time in Wellington and some of the events since I last posted. Planning to leave on the bike and start heading north beginning of next week.

Looking forward to another bike tour, Taranaki, Taupo, and destinations north of Auckland!!!:woohoo:

[Blackbird]

Finished work and finishing my chapter in Wellington. Getting ready for another 4 week tour, this time of parts of the North Island I have yet to see. Will take some time to update blog and recount my time in Wellington and some of the events since I last posted. Planning to leave on the bike and start heading north beginning of next week.

Looking forward to another bike tour, Taranaki, Taupo, and destinations north of Auckland!!!:woohoo:

Hi Pete:rockon:

Looking forward to more of your adventures - hope you're well!

Geoff

[Mrs Busa Pete]

Finished work and finishing my chapter in Wellington. Getting ready for another 4 week tour, this time of parts of the North Island I have yet to see. Will take some time to update blog and recount my time in Wellington and some of the events since I last posted. Planning to leave on the bike and start heading north beginning of next week.

Looking forward to another bike tour, Taranaki, Taupo, and destinations north of Auckland!!!:woohoo:

Hope we see you back up here in Auckland..:niceone:

[Road Warrior]

Hello Pete!:cool:
So funny you should post today. This is the first time I have been back on the website in a long time. Things got way busy this summer..over the top busy..so my trip down has gotten delayed.
Right now the wind is howling and it snowing up on I70 :cold:

Cant wait to read up on your adventures on the north island :rockon:
Gary

[Hinny]

Hi Pete,
I am in Ohakune at the moment. If you are around how about coming for a ski?
Best mountain in the world for Spring skiing.

[Hinny]

Or a fish...

[longwayfromhome]

Pete

A winter in Wellington is enough for anyone. You have a bed here when you are coming thru...maybe for a few days riding as well.

Ralph

[StoneY]

A winter in Wellington is enough for anyone.
Ralph :Oi:


Aucklands far wetter than we are in Welly (we just get wind) lol
Its been a mild one this year- rode every single day of it!

See ya Pete enjoy the NI and especially NORTH of Jaffa land, far north is bloody nice mate and youve chosen a good 4 months to wander it :niceone:

[the vet]

I did buy a ute while in Wellington and have sold it now on Trademe to a buyer in Auckland. I will be there tomorrow to drop off the ute, then onto a plane back to Upper Hutt to get on the bike and start my bike tour of the North Island with some specific places to visit....the bits I haven't been to yet.

Can't wait to get on the bike again with nothing but time and a few belongings.

[the vet]

Two photos, one from the deck of house I was living in Brooklyn at sunrise, overlooking wellington, another of a flasher at the Wairarapa harvest festival exerting her influence over two unsuspecting and witless males. For more of the story, see the latest blog entry. Details my time in Wellington and travel since then.

[the vet]

The snow topped south island (Kaikoura range I believe) mountains as seen from Cape Pallisar and one of the mountains in Tongariro. The other two near Matamata on my way up to Waiheke island

[the vet]

Some from my trip around the East Cape. I started in Tauranga and went south, driving the coast around the East Cape down to Gisborne.

[Blackbird]

Nice photos Pete - looks like one of the males has fainted:whistle:.

Good shots of the Kaimai range near Matamata too. Hope you enjoy Waiheke. Had a boozy weekend there a few years ago!

Geoff

[the vet]

Waiheke was superb. After the first night of howling wind and rain, the weather turned beautiful for the remainder of my trip.

[the vet]

And here I sit in the public library in New Plymouth on this rainy day.

[Blackbird]

Oh man - that Kingfish.........:2thumbsup:2thumbsup:2thumbsup

You might as well visit the Whangomomona pub and Forgotten Highway while you're in Taranaki! I stayed at the Belt Rd Motor Camp in NP a couple of times. Run by a biker and great views over the port. You can dine at the big game club just below the camp in the evening at a sharp price.

[george formby]

Bring your map into my shop in Pahia if your up this way & I will show you some lovely detours. Boots Off, Kings Road, Pahia, Bay of Islands. Ooooh look, the sun has come out! Yippee.:woohoo:

[wayne708]

Hi Pete, good to see your back on the road again, will look forward to updates on your travels.
Sorry I didn't get a chance to pop in and see you again before you left town.

And those kingfish are good fun, I have a 44kg one to my credit caught out at White Island a few years back, took one and a half hours to land on 18kg line.

[george formby]

Hi Pete, good to see your back on the road again, will look forward to updates on your travels.
Sorry I didn't get a chance to pop in and see you again before you left town.

And those kingfish are good fun, I have a 44kg one to my credit caught out at White Island a few years back, took one and a half hours to land on 18kg line.

Noice fush! I got smoked by a kingie at the weekend on 24kg, popped 200lb trace after pulling a good 100mtrs of line off.:Oops: Wish moy boike would pull loike that

[the vet]

I'll look you up when I get close.

Cheers, Pete


Bring your map into my shop in Pahia if your up this way & I will show you some lovely detours. Boots Off, Kings Road, Pahia, Bay of Islands. Ooooh look, the sun has come out! Yippee.:woohoo:

[the vet]

Apologize to folks who have been trying to email me...the one I had listed with Kiwibiker was outdated.....I forgot. Email has now been updated or the one in my signature can be used. :Oops:

Although it has been very rainy, I've had a great few days in Taranaki. Visited the museum and the art gallery, walked around New Plymouth, took a run on the walkway, climbed Paritutu, tramped the White Cliffs walkway and took a ride out to the Republic of Whangamomonu today. Heading off to Taupo/Turangi and maybe Rotorua region after that....want to sample the North Island fly fishing!! Need to catch a few of the river Rainbows!

[sarahtvet]

Sounds like you are making a good job of exploring the land of the long white cloud. Awesome pics, glad you are having fun

[the vet]

I won't give up on this. Next short chapter with photos can be found here:

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/blog.php?b=1202

[Bren]

I won't give up on this. Next short chapter with photos can be found here:

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/blog.php?b=1202

Linky dont worky:bleh:

[the vet]

hmmm?.....its working for me. Goes to blog with photos

[Hinny]

I get...

'Invalid Blog specified. If you followed a valid link, please notify the administrator'

[Mrs Busa Pete]

Me to come on pete you have had long enough.

How are you hope all is good at your end of the world.

Wendy & Pete:whistle:

[crazyhorse]

Doesn't work for me either :crybaby:

[the vet]

OK, the blog was saved as a draft and the link I put in was to the draft....took me a while to figure out how to post the draft, but I think I did it. I should have another to enter by the end of the day.

The other end of the world, this end, seems more complicated....I like 'simple'

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/blog.php?b=1202

[the vet]

Hi All, I've been back in the States for 3 months now and have put 8000+ MILES on my truck traveling with dog to visit friends and family as far away as Florida (from California). I've picked up a few weeks of work here and there and recently received email that my NZ residency application was accepted!!:woohoo: I continue to travel like a vagabond, sleeping in the back of my truck with dog to keep me warm. Just had 2 days of blissful powder skiing in Telluride while visiting a good friend there, and one day skiing Steamboat Springs while visiting a friend there. I've been neglectful or my Blog/ride report, but have posted an additional entry where I left off. So much more to tell still and more photos to link.
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/entry.php/1318-Time-to-Drive-North-Island-continued-September-Oct
If link doesn't work, got to the vet's blog and check the most recent entry.
I'm currently looking for a place to buy here in Colorado; I've long desired a place to call home here in Colorado...for when I am in the States....and a mountain base for any NZ motorcyclists to stopover in their US travels/explorations/holidays.

Cheers, Pete

[Hinny]

a mountain base for any NZ motorcyclists to stopover in their US travels/explorations/holidays.

Cheers, Pete

I'll start saving.
I believe Colorado powder is almost sd good as Utah powder. Need tongue-poke emoticon here.

[the vet]

Where did I leave off...? Well, looks as though I ended with a great time fishing for Kingfish in Wairau bay with Mick the 20 something dairy farmer. We fought Kingys jigging from the bottom for about 4 hours....my arms were dead...I think he was testing me to see when I had finally had enough. It was enough just to jig those things as fast as you could from the bottom...but 10 or so fish later, my arms were jelly. I had a great dinner with he and his family, spent the night, and then headed east and south around the cape, on my way back to Upper Hutt via a stop in P. North. Somehow I skipped to Taranaki in my tale telling....but that later, lots to tell before then.
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=3657&attachmentid=213597

[the vet]

so here is me trying to attach photos....again

[the vet]

so after great fishing and Opotiki hospitality, I began the trek around the Cape. It was in Opotiki that I was warned not to just stop and camp anywhere.....so I was a little cautious and probably did not slowly meander and take advantage of the region as I should have. But some scenes along the way.....then a night camped at Anaura Bay. The pay to park campground was empty and closed. The DOC grounds next to the beach also closed...but I had no where else to go, so just parked, ate some fruit, some fish, and slept....to rise early to a beautiful sunrise....the Easternmost international sunrise....the first view of the coming day by modern time zone standards....kind of a unique feeling.

[the vet]

Only a relative short drive to Gisborne, I stopped here and there along the way, and then spent a couple days in Gisborne. I had a private tour of a state of the art exclusive Gerwurtztraminer vineyard and winery (thanks to a friend with family in the wine industry), and then spent a half day tramping the grounds of the Eastwooodhill Arboretum--which was pretty awesome in and of itself.

[the vet]

This was at a high spot in the arboretum, viewing the mountain ranges in the distance. Can't attach this photo, so only the link....

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=3657&attachmentid=213659

[the vet]

After a few days in Gisborne, I made quick stops in Napier and Hastings, and then went on to P. North to visit another vet friend. From there I went back down to Upper Hutt where I stayed with a friend on her farm....some work in exchange for room and board....or I should say old trailer and board....

[the vet]

While traveling in the Ute, I had both the V-strom and Ute listed for sale on TradeMe...serendipitously, the Ute sold first. I drove it up to Auckland, made the exchange, flew back down to Wellington, got rid of my last few belongings, packed up the bike and headed for Taranaki. Here, I realize that I failed to mention my stops in Tauranga/Maunganui and Rotorua---a few photos

[the vet]

I have to say, when looking back on the trip, although there was something to be said for the comfort of the Ute.....the 'adventure' was overall more exciting and interactive on the bike....now that sounds obvious, and I know I am preaching to the choir here....but it was more than the wind, the proximity to the scenery, etc.....the off-bike experiences were better and deeper while I was traveling on the bike.....my memories of that time, the whole encounter, are better than those of my time traveling in the Ute....time seemed to slow down while on the bike; you engage more people, your story is more interesting. Its a richer experience.

[the vet]

I like the 'naki'. I had beautiful weather on the day I arrived, and then it rained. Nonetheless, its one of those places with roots in the land, and a strong sense of community, pride, and like so many other places in NZ...beauty. I stayed about 4 days at a backpackers in New Plymouth. I took a run on the walkway, I hiked to the top of Paritutu (correct name?)......I even engaged some medicinal herb (without inhaling) and spent about 3 hours marveling in the museum at the exhibits.....awesome. I found an off the beaten path little store selling greenstone and bought some jewelry for my Mom and sisters. It was a good time. To explain a couple of the photos...of the mountain on the day I arrived. On one day I just got out on the bike and drove some of the back country roads....just to explore and see the farmland...for the solitude and the GREEN! I love the Green. One evening in New Plymouth a storm came through...it made for a beautiful rainbow and then sunset views from down by the water

[the vet]

Only had one day with clear views of the volcano.....grateful for that.

[the vet]

I met a German girl at the backpackers. She had never been on a motorbike before, so I borrowed a helmet from a local kiwibiker (tremendous thanks for that!) and Nicole and I went for a ride. We spoke with a farmer/rancher in the hotel, he had been mustering with his dogs that morning....I know where the expression 'dog tired' comes from. Wouldn't you know it though, I came as close to going down on the bike with Nicole on the back as I did the entire trip......lost my concentration for a moment and hit a small bit of that gray mud on a curve....both front and rear started to go.....if the patch was any bigger, we would have been down.

[the vet]

Was tramping the Whitedliffs Walkway. I forget exactly, but its 15K or so, perhaps longer, and you have to time it around the tides or you can't get through the part along the beach. No takers at the backpackers, so I had to figure a way to make the one way tramp by myself. I decided to park the Strom at the bottom of the track, and then hitchhike to the top, walk down and then get on the bike and go back to New Plymouth.....so I got an early start. Problem was the access road to the bottom of the track is one way in and out and not highly used...and its about 13 K or so back out to the main road. So I started walking in long pants with water and shorts in my pack....and nary a car to be seen....maybe one went by, but just kept going past me and my thumb. I walked about 8-9 more Km and hadn't seen a car, so decided to put take off my pants and put on my shorts, the day was warming up. Wouldn't you know it, with my pants down around my ankles, standing there in my undies, a car comes into view.....I just stood up and stuck my thumb out:shit:......needless to say, what looked like a mother and two young kids just passed me by, mouths agape.....oh well....about another Km and I did get picked, but I had spent 2 hours and had already walked most of the way. Once on the main road, it wasn't long before I got a ride from a young guy who took me all the way to the head of the track....and there I started walking again.....a beautiful tramp, a beautiful day.....and a little more medicinal herb helped me to get a little creative with my camera. All said and done it was probably about a 20+km day of walking.

[the vet]

More photos from the walkway. I was told that the stock tunnel was closed because it was dangerous....but go ahead anyway, it cuts off the walk and gets you to the beach faster. It was kind of cool, but slick as snot. Was all I could do to stay upright.

[the vet]

To come...fishing around Taupo, a wild boar on the Whakapapa and finally.....Northland adventures

[george formby]

:shit: I guess your home now, posting from a merka? Cool. Looks like you have had crackin time.

[Mort]

A good read - thanks for posting - hope to see you back here someday

[Hinny]

Hey Pete,
Post 171... last photo is sublime. :yes:

[the vet]

Hey Pete,
Post 171... last photo is sublime. :yes:

yep, crazy how a freak like me might be able to capture that beauty...a moment, as arrogant as to say perhaps 'the right moment' in time.....just dumb luck and maybe an eye for the sublime......just got my residence visa stamped in my passport...may be back for more "life analysis" in the not too distant future.....crap, haven't even finished my ride report yet.

'an analyzed life'...how important, how easily overlooked...

[gijoe1313]

Blardy great ride report mate! Good on you for sucking out the marrow from life and making the most of your time here in our fair lands!

Keep on passing the open windows! :Punk:

[the vet]

I'm back!...literally here in NZ doing the immigration/residency dance, and figuratively, to finish the original ride report, started 3 years ago...sorry for the delay, hopefully better late than never.




I'll arrive in Auckland on Dec 7 and 5 days later I'll be 43 years old. I was born in NY, but I've lived in 6 different states and in a few countries; mostly 20 years ago, and mostly for shorter periods of time. I first thought I'd come to NZ to just explore your beautiful country and meet New Zealanders, traveling by motorcycle, taking my time, fishing along the way, engaging the adventure and beauty your country is known for. Then I thought, if I can work along the way, all the better, and tomorrow I'll accept a 6 month position based in Wellington which should also get me a work permit good for 5 years. So the plan as it stands now.....travel for 2 months, work 6 months, travel and/or work for another 3-4. At that point I'll try and decide to stay, or return to the States; that is part of the adventure for me...the unknown.

This is my first attempt at a ride report. So bear with me until I can work out some 'flow', and a way to seamlessly attach pictures. I am starting early with this so that I can perfect the process before I actually arrive; at which time I imagine 'the process' will be more challenging. I have enthusiastically devoured some of the ride reports on ADVrider; there are some wonderfully talented storytelling motorcycle adventurers out there. Emails will be the best way to contact me directly. srndptee@gmail.com

I need a change in my life. What the heck...how can I pass on an opportunity like this?

[the vet]

From Taranaki I set out on the bike to Taupo for a few days of fly fishing, and weather permitting (early October), the Tongariro crossing. I was there for 3-4 days and spent 2 days fishing the T-T river. Some fun rainbows on that river and the further I walked upstream, the better the fishing got. Again, for a guy like me, some great strong fish...really fun. My window to do the Tongariro crossing was small and the weather not good...and soon to get worse. On my first day there I met a guy who got halfway, and then had to turn back. On the one day I decided to drive over the pass and try the Whakapapa river, the weather was not looking good. I asked a local if it was possible that there would be snow on the pass with the weather coming in..."Nah, you'll be fine".....I should learn to listen to my intuition. It rained the entire time on the Whakapapa, the river was coming up so high I could not cross it. Trying to get back to the bike after a fruitless and freezing day I came across a big pig...big tusks...not afraid of me in the least. Navigated some fencing, crossed some pasture and finally found my way back to the bike. Sure enough, heading back to Turangi....SNOW on the road and rapidly getting worse. I was already soaked to the bone, and never so cold on the bike...very happy to make my way to the hot pools by the end of the day. A couple good days of fishing, and first hand experience of the rapid, and extreme, NZ weather changes. All in good fun!253047253048

[the vet]

Next to explore was Northland. I made a quick stop in Rotorua, rented a bicycle and rode out the buried village from the Mt. Tarawera eruption and learned a bit about history of the pink and white terraces, now long gone. Also a hike to the top of Rainbow mountain...and of course, a soak in the hot pools. Then to Auckland where I reacquainted with another KB'er and met his family...a great family... and someone I hope to call 'friend' henceforward. Thanks again Ralph!

[the vet]

Also in Auckland, I stayed briefly with a friend I'd met previously and briefly on two different occasions...fate....suffice to say, I fell in 'like' with a kiwi....it was the beginning....

[Hinny]

That's a big fat assed pig. Mmmm bacon sandwiches.

[Nasty]

Welcome back babe!

[the vet]

Words to live by Nasty! Hope you are well! Happy New Year.

I left Auckland and began to make my way up the East brief stops planned at Goat Island, Leigh Sawmill and eventually up to meet some friends and dive the Poor Knights Islands, even though it was a bit early in the season. The camper vans had begun to increase in numbers, but not too bad. i found the campsites and backpackers still relatively empty...October. The weather was still glorious that Spring, the riding just awesome. A stop and stay outside of Whangarei at the Little Earth lodge and some exploration of the Abbey Caves, glow-worms etc. Then up to Tutakaka for some diving. Any diving for me is a gift experience and the Poor knights beautiful....but the days we were out, the visibility not so great...Oh well.

[the vet]

From Little Earth Lodge I backtracked through Whangarei over to the west on 14 through Dargaville, then up to the Waipoua Forest to visit the Kauris...a must see to meet my tourist obligations. Amazing trees; the photos don't do them justice. The Redwoods of Northern California are similar in that they just blow you away with their sheer size.....but the Kauris very different, and therefore very unique....

[the vet]

I spent about 3 days in Kohukohu at the Tree House. Really nice down to earth owners and accommodation. It was here the V-Strom hit the dirt for the first time. It rained, the ground quickly got soft and the stand sunk...over she went, broken signal lights, but really no other damage....oh well, more or less 11 months on the bike, and this the only time she hit the ground...touch wood. I explored a bit of the coast from here, had a couple beers in KohuKohu and one great but gray day picking mussels with German Martin and English Beth....mmm love NZ mussels. We each prepared a different mussel dish back at the tree house and feasted with anyone else interested.

[the vet]

I guess because of the 'more' tropical climates and the proximity to NZ's largest city, I thought Northland would be more crowded, more bachs, more people in general. My impression was not that at all...as rural a feel as most of the places in NZ I visited. I guess that is more on the west coast though, although apart from the Bay of Islands and Whangarei, I found the east side to be similar. I really do love that about NZ, the rural feel, towns with population '220'. I thought about trying to ride 90 mile beach on the V-Strom, but decided no go with the weight of baggage and my belongings and the wear/tear on gearing, chain, etc. Briefly looked into trying to find a more suitable rental bike to explore on, but had no luck, so passed it by. More photos from near Hokianga Harbor.

[the vet]

From bottom to top, and many places in between. As many have before me, I traveled on the bike from Invercargill right up to the top. A luxury I created for myself in the middle of my life; interjected with some living and working and a small taste of what it is to be 'Kiwi'....and an American living in another country...an importance many kiwis recognize in the form of their 'OE'---something most Americans don't recognize the value of, which is a shame. On a stretch of road I passed a tractor and out of the corner of my eye caught what looked like...a dog....planted firmly on the engine hood...traveling at about 30 km/hr or so, perhaps more.....I pulled over a distance ahead and snapped a photo just in time....perfect. To me, kiwi in so many ways.

[the vet]

I went right up to the top and saw the lighthouse, then moved on to the DOC campground nearby and set up my little tent. One morning I walked the track back up to Reinga as the lighthouse came into view, this kind of freak storm blew in---just this solitary storm on an otherwise clear and sunny morning. I don't want to sound all hippy-dippy, but a rainbow appeared arched over the tip, and remembering some of the Maori significance of the site, thought it symbolic of a place where souls leave this place.

The rain passed quickly and I carried on for the rest of a sunny day.

[george formby]

Well hello! Just can't stay away eh?

Dang, thought you where back. Now I've lost my facepalm thingy. Oh well. All the best. How much snow you got?

[the vet]

...with a stop camped for a couple nights on beautiful Maitai Bay just to relax, swim and enjoy a great beach. A few days around KeriKeri, Paihia and Russell. I did some more diving out of Northland Dive in Whagaruru, owned and operated by Shane and Julia>>truly passionate about what they do. Dove Hole in the Rock and then the Canterbury Wreck and camped on the Northland Dive grounds. From there I walked the Cape Brett tramp and pretty much had the DOC hut to myself for 2 nights.

[the vet]

Long walk, but beautiful. I'll tell you, if you need to shut off the brain for a while, no better way to do it then kilometers on the bike or a long tramp....you just shut out the day to day 'noise', and your mind goes to some pretty enriched places. The contemplation achieved for me in those quiet times has definitely changed the direction of my life.

[the vet]

Those were the original motivations for me to come to New Zealand...but its become so much more as I sit and type and finish this ride report....3 years after I started it...with just some vision.

So a couple more adventures. Near Whangaruru and Oakura I wanted to fish...open your eyes, pay attention to what is presented to you, and wa la....there it is. The next day out on the water with Justin, snapper and cray, then prepared by his partner in their home for a fresh seafood meal...

[the vet]

Near Northland Dive in Whangaruru is a backpackers/homestay/recreation type of place. Its actually kind of hard to define. The Farm is about 1000 acres if memory serves. It is part working farm and dairy, part equestrian retreat, part off road motorbiking retreat where you can bring your dirt bike or rent one...and ride. Its a hodgepodge of family, kids, foreign travelers, Wwoofers, weekend warriors and kids camp/retreat. I stopped out of curiosity to learn that the male partner owner is a veterinarian and off road motorbiking enthusiast, the female partner an American ex-pat...needless to say, it felt instantly like a second home to me; but not just cause of the similarities, they make everyone feel that way. Their immediate family consists of 6 kids, 2 of whom are adopted twin Maori boys...but when you are there, everyone you encounter feels like family. I rode, I mustered cows, I helped vaccinate and castrate, make some minor bike repairs....then I ventured with the family to an enduro event where even non family kids were taken under wing, given a bike to ride and entered into the event. Mike, his wife, their kids, the farm...wow...that is family. What a pure way for kids to come up...and not just their own...anyone, any kid who seemed to happen onto the farm became family. Awesome. What a perfect experience to round out my time on my first visit to New Zealand.

[the vet]

From the Farm, I meandered back to Auckland, spent a few more days with Ralph and family, sold the V-Strom and then flew back to the US the next day....NZ residence application pending.

For touring NZ by motorbike, although I have not ridden the BMW 800.....if I could afford it and accessorize it properly, that might be my bike of choice....but the 650 V-Strom would be my second choice....practical, reliable, affordable, comfortable, awesome range, smooth, easy to maintain. No single bike can do it all....the V-strom came close.

Here she is, ready for sale, job well done.

[the vet]

...the woman....well falling in 'like' has become fallen in 'love'...we'll see what the future holds.

I'm currently back in New Zealand; have been here since mid August and working in Christchurch full time since September. I took a job opportunity I could not pass up back in Colorado beginning Feb 2012...but I'll be back again...to split time between my 2 favorite places in the world is my dream...you've got to dream.:niceone:

[the vet]

It has been a long time since I was back on the site. I wanted to finally finish this story, as it turns out to have been a very fateful journey, beginning with a love for motorcycles and a desire to take a new journey, in a beautiful country. Along the way, in 2009, I met one of the most beautiful woman I've ever known....I fell in love, and somehow knew, this was the woman. At that time, timing was wrong, but I believed and persisted. 4 years of longer than shorter distance, see you when I can, endless emails, trips together in America and NZ, and finally, permanent NZ residence visa (on 16 Aug this year) for me.....we will be married.

Thank you New Zealand! End of story...beginning of story.

Next Autumn, bringing my F800 over!

[Grashopper]

Wow! Great story. :banana:
Congrats to your residence visa and all the best for you both.

[Hinny]

Oh! go you.
Congratulations and best wishes.
Yay.

[george formby]

That is a lovely end to the tale. I will spoil it now.

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/us3dQ0nnlHY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Blackbird]

Fantastic news Peter and warmest congratulations - super happy for you both :Punk:

Hope it won't be too long before we meet up again. Have our own daughter's wedding coming up shortly so can kiss goodbye to any expensive bike farkles this year!