William Schnackenberg Davis
16-06-2023
Day 5 of our trip was spent with a much-needed photoless recovery at the Hamner Springs Hot Pools. Day 6 started with re-packing all our gear and getting ready for one hell of a climb up out of Hamner springs, following along the Rainbow Road. We didn't quite get to snow level, however, the views of the Rainbow Road are truly insane with the snow-dusted mountains in all directions. We had lunch in the small hut out of the wind and found our way to Sedgemere Hut well before dark to warm up around the fire. Probably my favourite day of the trip so far!
Day 4 of our South Island trip was more progression along the Molesworth Trail, this day however was all downhill (Apart from the two 400+m climbs) A hectic tailwind ailed our broken bodies as we screamed along destined for a well-deserved rest in Hamner Springs. I've ridden a lot of bikes in my life, including all different disciplines, but I have to say screaming along at 30+kph on a fully loaded gravel bike with a bunch of mates for hours on end has to be one of my favourite times.
Day 3 and the climbing continues, this time on the Molesworth Trail in 'BIG COUNTRY'. We woke up at Blairich campsite after a late night arrival, however, the morning was clear, sunny, and a great chance to dry out the tents and camping gear. The first day of the Molesworth tested every one to new limits. I had one busted sole of my riding shoe causing all sorts of pressure point sores and everyone was pretty broken. The views however were incredible! This truly is big country, a part of NZ I had never experienced until now.
Day 2 was a true test of everyones ability to climb. Port underwood road from Picton to Blenheim is no joke, It's hectic pinch climb after hectic pinch climb. I rode it only a few weeks prior to scout the conditions and didn't find it too difficult at the time, however on a fully loaded bike was a completely different story. We woke up surrounded by misty mountains, with constant downpours overnight everything was drenched. The route starts with a 300m stretch of flat ground out from the campsite before heading up a 450m vert 6km long climb. The day was made easier by constant showers and 100% humidity. This route saw us head back through Blenheim out towards the Molesworth trial. Sadly at Whites bay surf club we lost Viv and Max due to sickness, the remaining 6 of us pushed on till the evening, getting to the campsite around 8.30pm.