Days 5 and 6

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Day 5 - Patea to Palmerston North 140km

Despite being a relatively straight forward cycle, quite flat and a decent length, it proved to be one of the most challenging days so far. It seemed to take forever, with the route very uninteresting. The previous day we had had the backdrop of the spectacular Mount Egmont whereas day fives route consisted mostly of driving past farm after farm. As the day went on we seemed to be edging towards our destination very slowly, and the final hours approach to Palmerston was not helped by the wind and rain!

We arrived at around 6pm, it had been a long day. We spent the night with Lesley and Ian, wonderful hosts. A special mention must be made for Lesleys apple crumble - amazing! Again it was nice to get some home comforts and a great nights rest.

Day 6 - Palmerston North to Paremata (North Wellington) 115 km

Thankfully todays ride was a bit more interesting, as halfway through our ride merged with the South West coastline of the North Island. Deep down i think myself and Mark were generally relieved that today was our last major day of cycling on the North Island, taking us over the halfway stage of the cycle. A slight tail wind also made the day a little more enjoyable. Tonight we are staying with Marks girlfriend's relatives, Annie and David, who agian have been brilliant hosts. Tomorrow we have a short cycle into Wellington City to get the Ferry across to the South Island, very exciting times. Not only because we can begin the second leg of our trip, but because we only be cycling around 60km altogether and can give the legs a bit of a day off.


Thanks on behalf of myself and Mark to everybody who has so far donated, we are almost at the 3500pound mark! Anybody still interested in donating should visit the website:

http://www.justgiving.com/newzealandcycle/

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Photos

Seaside!
Mark as we finally reach the coast on Day 6.

Comments

[Jim Bishop]

Half way point
Well done lads - bet you are looking forward to day 7 - and the trip across to south island - how many kms do you still have to go - how mant days cycling left?