Day one on the Trail – Alexandra to Lauder

A gloomy looking day with -1 degree rising to 10 degrees c forecast saw us dressing with multiple layers of thermal kit. The promise of a nice coffee at Chatto Creek pub motivated us as we started up,the track. The autumn colours are still in full glory making for some stunning views.

Barb is stopping at each old station and finding the box so that she can get her stamp into her passport – proof positive that she has achieved the full 150 + Kms that makes up this ride.

Omakau station – Barb getting her stamp – also we stopped at the old town here for a lovely lunch and a 4 km detour to visit another old gold mining settlement of Ophir

1860’s post office at Ophir – still working

finally arrived at Lauder and back to our 5th wheel – I raced ahead over the last 7 Kms to turn on the diesel heater and the hot water supply so that Barb was able to step off the bike and straight into a nice hot shower. She was mumbling something about , “Oh my sore Bum !” But still very positive about the morrow – bound for Ranfurley. She’s no quitter – our Barb.