Good times on a BMX bike – Auckland

As an adult capturing any chance to be a kid again is always on my to do list – the nostalgia of it all makes me bubble with excitement.  Last weekend a window of opportunity opened for me to once again breathe childhood exhilaration, freedom and fun.

The boyfriend and I went on a BMX ride along the water’s edge in Pakuranga, Auckland.  Upon arrival a tiny group of BMX fanatics and their children had already gathered.  I was given a stylish BMX bike for the day and instantly my senses were flooded with memories of the shiny chrome BMX I once owned as a young teenager.

The joy of sitting on the BMX bike that I had been given had my pulse racing and I couldn’t wait to get going .  The surrounding harbour was calm, the clouds were dull and the air still, but the adrenalin within the BMX group created a buzz as we departed along the Rotary walkway that hugged the coastline.

This was a part of Auckland I had never explored and it was very serene. With houses perched above the grassy slopes, knotty native trees over hanging the path and the sea lapping the shore I almost felt as if I wasn’t in the city anymore.

My BMX was in cruise control yet each time I came to a bend in the path I found myself out of my seat and increasing my speed just so I could hug each corner as if I was on a motorbike.  Avoiding the few walkers and joggers was easy as there were very few of them out and about…

For a short time, the sleepy boats in the harbour became our only spectators as a boat jetty became a mini ramp for us to roll down on with speed.  In our excitement the dull clouds had slowly merged into one big cloud.

It now looked like an enormous tsunami coming to swallow us whole – the scene looked quite surreal as we continued around the coast.  We stopped at an exercise playground where the adults and children all pulled, pushed and spun the equipment designed for fitness.

I had an overwhelming urge to do sweet jumps on my BMX bike and I whizzed about the car park tarmac attempting tricks.  Twisting and turning the metal frame – lifting it from the tarmac was thrilling even if I was a bit rusty!

Just down the path was a very inventive snakes and ladders park consisting of steps and slides entwined with flax bushes which amused the children for ages.  On the path again, it  guided us inland, pedalling us past hundreds of overgrown mangroves and up short steep inclines into suburbia.

We got slightly lost at one point and just as our bottoms were getting sore from the BMX seats we found park number two.  The lawn was covered with spindly legged Pukeko birds who greedily enjoyed our lunch as much as we did.

The bike ride back to our cars became a race for some, including myself.  It was thrilling stuff… I took every corner with speed, moving the bike from side to side to increase my pace and to overtake others, but the BMX race came to a sudden end when the big swing was discovered.  It was dangling up on the grassy slope attached to an enormous tree overlooking the picturesque waters of the harbour.

As I sat on the swing dropping from a huge height with my legs stretched our in front of me, a cool rush of air on my face and the high-pitched squeal releasing from my lungs I think I could say that my entire day was spent swinging into memories full of adult exhilaration, freedom and fun.  I can’t wait to do it all again!

Biking Beautiful Brisbane – Australia

I like surprises and Brisbane city is certainly a box of treats. We arrive at the Youth Hostel in the late evening. The constant deluge of rain has followed us up from Surfers Paradise and I wonder what this city can offer us in the next few days?

Lucky for us the rain is gone in the morning, replaced with a bright blue sky above. The busy Youth Hostel has a small choice of hire bikes displayed out front and we seem to be the only ones interested in snapping up a pair of the old off-beat cycles.

Finding the cycle ways in Brisbane is not too difficult – you simply pedal down to the Brisbane river. The cycle way we find hugs the river. It weaves under massive concrete bridges and beside roads laden with polluted traffic. Down below the air is crisp and the greenery abundant. We feel hidden and safe from all the noise and confusion above.

The boyfriend soon becomes curious about life above and a detour into the city centre becomes an uphill climb. My heavy bike only has two gears so my arms and legs certainly get a lengthy work out!

We pedal up and down busy streets getting happily lost. Brisbane City Hall, the Clock Tower and King George Square are all visual treats.

After zig- zagging around we eventually find direction and pedal back down to the calm of the river’s edge. Few people are about and we seem to have the cycle way to ourselves.

We stop at a quirky riverside eatery and enjoy a delicious cooked breakfast in the glowing morning sunshine.

Time easily ticks by. We jump back on our clunky bikes and enter the Brisbane city botanical gardens.

It surrounds us with its sweaty scent of tropical jungle. A towering canopy of green protects us from the approaching grey clouds that turn the city a shade of grey. We push on, pedalling towards the suburb of New Farm.

Ahead, Storey bridge has me mesmerised. Its sturdy steel structure poses powerfully like an important business man over-seeing the static flow of the Brisbane river.

Continuing to follow the bend of the river I find myself glancing back. The bridge sits as an industrial artwork fragmented against the backdrop of the glistening city.

A steep climb leads us up and away from the river and the cycle path. We begin to follow bike signs along the road. New Farm is refreshing.

It is dotted with colourful homes – where historic riverside factory buildings have become unique apartments and where corner coffee shops are buzzing with locals.

We discover a few more cycle paths – allowing us to explore some riverside parks before we turn back to towards the city’s skyline.

Our bicycle wheels engage with a Storey bridge crossing – gliding over its metal frame we enjoy the scenic city views. The other side of the river is waiting for our arrival…

Kangaroo point greets our us with its imposing cliffs. The grey clouds have quickly passed as the heat in the air slows our pace. Creativity is everywhere as eye-catching artwork frequently decorates the riverside. We cycle in the direction of Southbank.

South Bank is a busy hive. This is where all the people are! With its spacious museums, picturesque gardens, relaxing eateries and its own man-made beach who wouldn’t want to come for a visit?

There is so much to see and do in this tiny area you could be here for the day, but we continue cycling over another fabulous bridge and then along the bicentennial bikeway which practically sits on the river.

It guides us with a few diversions ( due to previous flooding ) beside the river. It by-passes busy suburbs and leads us towards the University of Queensland. The shade of the trees around the university grounds are a welcome relief from the heat and humidity in the air.

Another cycle friendly bridge takes us over the river and guides us up Highgate hill where we rest under the trees – From the Highgate hill we are thrilled to find ourselves freewheeling alongside cars down into the inner suburb of the West End – where there are engaging boutique shops, fresh produce and friendly locals to chat to.

Finally we pedal back to exciting South Bank where we watch the radiating sunset in an open air bar with a glass of bubbles!

Wrap her up and give her to me any day – Brisbane is a real treat!

Cycling before the Storm in Surfers Paradise

A roaring storm is rolling in to hit the sandy white beaches of Surfers Paradise in Queensland, but as the sun is still shining the Boyfriend and I are going to beat it before it hits.

Having just arrived in Australia we discover two rickety bicycles in the garage below our rented apartment at Biggera Waters.  We are itching to explore the area and the bicycles look as if they need to be dusted off and taken outside for some fun!

A cycle path sits right below our apartment weaving its way beside an expansive inlet which heads in both directions, but before we begin we cycle to a local petrol station.  The bicycle wheels are in need of some good ol fashioned air.

The bicycles creak and the chains squeak happily along the cycle path.  There is no rush.  The sun warms our backs as the sea sprays its salty scent in our direction.   We pedal through quiet grassy parks dotted with spiny trees.

Clusters of colourful boats lay like empty seashells on the sandy shoreline.  A random fisherman stands hunched and crumpled in the shadows of the on coming clouds as we continue to pedal in the direction of the high rises of Surfers Paradise.

With faceless apartment blocks on one side and the vast inlet on the other you feel as if you are never too far from it all.  A big camp ground sits right next to the inlet as we pedal over a bridge and into a sizeable park.  It is all very serene.  Only the odd jogger and elderly walker uses the open space to their advantage.

We cycle upon Broadwater parklands.  It has a delightful children’s playground complete with an enormous bouncy tarpaulin that resembles a colourful pillow!  I simply can’t resist the chance to play on all the equipment that bounces, spins, rocks, twists and turns…  We stop, becoming kids again and time simply becomes obsolete.

A gentle breeze begins to blow as we climb back on our bicycles.  In the distance crazy distorted shapes appear… They are the curves of a unique water park.  The shiny mosaics glisten under the small spurts of water.

Constant flows of water create a stream for children to paddle in.  If only we had our brought our swimmers!  An interesting children’s cycle park catches our eye with its little ramps and stop & go signs.  This place is a child’s paradise!

The cycle path guides us safely onto the busy Gold Coast highway and over the inlet via a lengthy bridge – We hoot and holler as we are carried along by the speed of cars and trucks whipping past us.

From above we would resemble ants as we take a small detour below the towering apartment blocks.  It is a quieter route which eventually guides us to a path right next to the ocean.

Sadly, the clouds have finally gathered momentum and begin to look menacing.  Surfers Paradise greets us with a busy promenade full of people, a row of crumbling sand sculptures and a maze of shops and eateries… The place doesn’t hold our attention for long and the rain begins drizzling.

We quickly turn back into a strong breeze pedalling back to the shelter of a surf club.  Once inside we have a comforting bite to eat. The rain falls intermittently.  We are mesmerised by the huge ocean waves powerfully beating up the fragile golden sands.  Dragging the delicate sand into its wild depths and leaving frothy white foam behind.

Finally we decide to make a dash for it.  The brave bicycles groan and creak under the strain, but they get us back to the warmth and shelter of our apartment just in time!  The storm hits with the force of a roaring lion. Untamed it closes all the beaches, closes the National parks and eventually floods many of the coastal roads south of Surfers Paradise.  Thank goodness we are heading north next.

Revisiting the Hauraki Rail Trail – New Zealand

I am not usually one to re-trace my steps and go where I have been before, but last week a second visit to the Karangahake gorge turned into a pleasant surprise!

I had first visited the area a year ago with my sister and her family on a short cycle ride.  Back then the Hauraki cycle trail was still incomplete and the children were having to be strapped onto to mum and dads bikes.

This year the cycle trail is finished.  The children are older, no longer strapped in, one helps mum pedal while the other cycles independently.  The 14km leg of the Hauraki Rail trail seemed perfect as it would suit the childrens little legs!

We would begin in the busy township of Paeroa and end at the Waikino railway cafe.  Paeroa is well-known for its L&P drink which is world-famous in New Zealand.

The Hauraki Cycle trail begins on the banks of the river which flows silently beside the town.  Our arrival creates a hum of noise as we loose the trail – we miss the signs and find ourselves puzzled on the back streets of Paeroa.

A helpful local comes to our aid and points us in the right direction.  We back track and find the signs that take us over the bridge and out of town.   The children holler in delight!

The trail quickly follows a quiet back road away from the busy main road.   Farmland surrounds us as the gravel trail cuts onto farmers land  and has us cycling with the cows and over bumpy cattle stops.

My nephew pedals furiously to race along beside his dad as the dust spins out from the back of his wheels.  My niece is more interested in what is going on around her.  She does not bother to pedal as my poor sister blatantly pedals on continuing to pull all the extra weight.

The cycle traffic is busy at times.  We give way to all the oncoming cyclists cheerfully greeting each other.  The children throughly enjoy shouting out ‘Hello’ to them all.

The open farmland is replaced with a trail that takes us through areas of spindly native bush , layers of flax bushes and fluffy toe-toe grass that tickles us as we cross its path.  The earth begins to climb around us as we enter the Karangahake gorge.

The river can be heard below gushing its way towards a new environment.  We pass a few fragile dwellings before pedalling up and over a bridge that takes us through the dark, damp 1km tunnel.  Even our bicycle lights do not help.

My nephew pedals behind the safety of his dad as we all try to avoid walkers and other cyclists trying to find their way .  Lots of train hoots are initiated by everyone and the echos are fabulous… It is more fun that frightening!

Once through the tunnel we all disembark down by the river.  The children happily throw pebbles into the river while we laze in the sunshine.  You can never tire of the beauty of this gorge as it winds itself high into the sky, seducing you with its aromatic greenery and its rushing river.

Back on the bicycles we follow the noise of the river.  We pause at the Victoria Battery which resemble remnants of a battle field.  The children play on the concrete ruins as if they are giant toys.

We then continue to pedal a short distance to the Waikino railway cafe.  The place is buzzing with activity.  The train from Waihi has arrived – it gives you a sense of how busy this place might have been in its heyday.

Once the children are fed and rested we clamber back onto the bicycles and pedal back towards the Karangahake gorge keen to do the ‘Windows’ walk.

Having missed it on our last visit the  ’Windows’ walk is the perfect way to end the day.

Once inside the heights of the old crumbling mine shafts we stop to look through the rock windows down at the depths of the gorge.

We are all transfixed – clumps of emerald ferns nest among the vertical cliffs where they meet jagged rock. This jagged rock climbs to dizzying heights helped on by moist dewy moss.  Below Craggy rocks and hefty boulders create an expedition for the busy bubbling river to erupt and churn its way further into the unknown.

As I said at the beginning  - my second visit was a pleasant surprise!

The Finale of the Otago Rail Trail – Day 4

It is the last day of the cycle ride and I find it difficult to roll out from under the warmth of the duvet.  There is a chill in the early morning air as we are collected and driven back to the Hyde Cafe for a delightful cooked breakfast.

As our ride weaves it way back to the Hyde township I capture the homestead looking beautiful in the morning light.  The cycle will be short today so we relax and enjoy the smell of freshly roasted coffee, sizzling bacon in the pan and the friendly murmur of other cyclists preparing for the day.

The gravel road leads us out of town passing derelict train carriages rusting from neglect.  The crumbling wood and metal turns into a playground for us.   We stop to explore, climbing in and around the skeleton carriages like energetic children on a climbing frame.

Back in our saddles we pedal through overgrown fields pausing at the Hyde Memorial to learn about the Rail disaster where 21 people died.  In 1943 the Cromwell to Dunedin passenger train derailed on a curve some three kilometres south of Hyde station.

The mountains painted in the foreground envelop the land like a green velvet coat.  The land is rugged and wild as we cycle through the abandoned space where the crisp leathery grass sweeps the air and fat fleecy sheep ignore our presence as they greedily devour grass.

Jagged outcrops of Schist rock begin to appear like lumps of play dough left to harden.  Empty and alone, the derelict huts stand forgetting that they are in the fine company of the majestic Otago mountains.

With a determination to reach the end.  Our bicycles hobble over the hundreds of tiny rocks as our legs push onwards only slowing to avoid lazy sheep resting on the trail.

A clash of drizzling rain and grey clouds releasing golden shafts of sun highlight our arrival.  We proudly pedal into the wide open streets of Middlemarch.

To celebrate the end of the Otago Rail trail we cycle down the main road to the local dairy ( corner store ) for a delicious Deep South ice-cream.  We hear the purring of engines and see that we are not the only strangers in town as a small succession of classic cars cruise into town looking suited and booted  - gleaming for admiration from others and easily getting it.

We hand our muddy, dust-covered bicycles in at the bike shop and join the proud classic car owners at the local eatery for a spot of lunch.  Sadly, our cycle journey has ended, but our day is not over yet!

We have one last big journey to undertake which will take us all the way to the historic city of Dunedin.  The final leg of the trip is to take a ride on a  train – the powerful machine that use to travel along the Otago rail trail all those years ago.

When the time came we were driven to the tiny station of Pukerangi to catch the train.  This train would take us through the famous Taieri Gorge on a railway line that was carved by hand over 100 years ago.

I stood out the back of one of the bright orange carriages with the cool wind in my face eagerly enjoying the slight pull on my long hair as it twisted and swirled in the clasping air.  The train chugged us along immense wrought iron bridges, through lengthy dark tunnels, over massive crevasses and past towering slopes of earth as it followed the river flow far below.

It is so exhilarating to have nature looking so dramatic and wild while cooling you with her icy fingers.

What a ride and what a journey!

Continuing along the Otago Rail Trail – Day 3

Leaving Ranfurly

It felt good to be back on the bicycles as we pedal away from Ranfurly. The morning gives us big rolling grey clouds and the air is chilly on our skin. We adorn our warm clothing before disappearing from civilization into the quiet isolation of the Otago Rail Trail.

A land of millions of sheep

The gravel trail lead us through vast areas of grassy fields littered with hundreds of cotton wool balls of sheep. Their curiosity has them staring and bleating like crazy. We have arrived as entertainment for the masses. We are like celebrities, but only for a few seconds in passing.

Gorges galore!

A small gorge climb is conquered with ease – our legs have become accustomed to the inclines allowing us to enjoy the spine tingling views with gusto. We pedal onwards and back into civilisation for a brief moment.

Not quite lunch time for us…

The tiny town of Waipiata, once a busy railway construction camp also known for where the giant Moa bird once roamed – it is now a tranquil place to relax and play as it sits next to the popular Taieri river, a river the trail continues to follow.

A few kilometres out of Waipiata we pedal over the impressive iron work of the ‘Green Bridge’ which was constructed in 1896 and still standing proud.

We cycle through places bearing the names of Kokonga, Tiroiti and Daisybank. The Taieri river snakes its way through the land. Gliding over hay bale pastures before cutting deep into the earth creating deep pockets and mighty crevasses.

Like a soap opera the scenery becomes more dramatic with each curve in the trail. My senses are mesmerised and I find myself often stopping to indulge in the beauty around me.

Following the Taieri River

Our ears, noses and hands begin to get numb from the ice-biting breeze when, like a shining apparition, we pedal upon a lone coffee cart shining under the grey clouds. The stop is a welcome treat. The jolly owner enjoys our arrival as we throughly enjoy drinking his warm delicious liquid gold.

Keeping on Moving!

Back in our saddles our legs spin quickly to stay warm. Prices Creek tunnel and the town of Hyde are not too far, but it isn’t long before our cycling effort is slowed.

Crossing a viaduct

We spot apples trees on the trails edge full of bulging baggage. We stop and munch greedily while the heights of another lush gorge waits for our arrival to treat us to its impressive wares. Decorative tree patterns, steep cliff plunges and the spooky Prices Creek tunnel – What more could you want?

Our Lunch Spot

After the thrill of the ride we finally arrive in historic Hyde. We pull up at the Otago Central Hotel to have a late lunch and to wait for our transportation to our nights accommodation.

The Rocks Station

The Rocks Station, an old Merino Station is definitely a wonderful surprise. It is an old homestead just for the three of us! We spend the late afternoon exploring the house, its river, derelict sheds and the remains of the historic moss-covered stone sheep yards before heading out for a fun-filled evening at the local pub.

We return to the homestead to find that our hosts have the wood fire roaring ready for our arrival home! Our chilly day certainly ended a roasty toasty one! One day to left to go…

Prices Creek Tunnel

Finding Gold on Four Wheels – Otago Rail Trail

The three bicycles are sadly locked up as we drive away from the art deco town of Ranfurly in our hire car.  Due to time and for one night only we sadly swap two wheels for four to explore parts of the Otago Rail Trail.

With the sun high in the sky we weave our way towards the tiny historic gold mining town of St Bathans.  It is tucked away in the depths of the Maniototo plain as if it likes to hide from the present day.

Its few remaining historic buildings are great for capturing the belief that gold could still be found in the area.  We peek in and around the creaking rooms and cloudy windows where dust has gathered and cobwebs have formed before strolling down the empty road to the old mined lake.

The man-made Blue lake is worth admiring with its white washed cliffs.  If it had been a hot day I would certainly be splashing about in its mineral rich depths – What a beautiful sight!

Back in the car and on state highway 85.  It twists its way towards Naseby – another historic gold mining town.  As we drive into the tiny town the afternoon light glistens through the towering trees upon the historic buildings making their unique character twinkle with pride.  The main street feels as if time stopped long ago and life is still being lived as it was a 100 years ago.

We find our accommodation very easily.  What was once a local church has been beautifully converted into a bed and breakfast, but we have no time to relax. We have a pre arranged date for the evening.

We wrap up warm and head off in search of the local ice rink to try the sport of curling.  The friendly locals are already energetically sliding the colourful stones over the ice.  The clinking of stones is constant and the murmur of chatter creates a busy scene.

Upon arrival we are given instructions on the game and encouraged to practise before playing.  This is helpful as sliding huge stones over ice isn’t as easy as it seems.

Our curling games are fun, yet challenging.  We all compete to battle it out against each other.   We leave the chill of the ice rink with smiles on our faces and head in search of dinner.  We find a fabulous place under the sparkling night sky called The Falconer,  with its outdoor fire, locally sourced food and delicious wines it is perfect!

Finally we snuggle up warm for our night in the old Church.  I am woken from my sleep by an angry storm.  The church’s wooden structure creaks and groans with the buffeting wind and heavy rain.  I have visions that the church and I will be whisked up into a wild tornado just like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz and I keep my eyes wide open for hours!

It is early morning, the gold mining towns of St Bathans and Naseby continue to snooze. Our four-wheeled vehicle is up early and moving.  It returns us back to present day, to the town of Ranfurly and happily reuniting us each with our beloved two wheels so we can begin day three of the Otago Rail trail!