Back to Christchurch: Wine tour day two

January 30, 2017

After a relaxing evening in Hanmer Springs including a lovely meal of venison we stayed the night. This morning we drove away from Hanmer Springs to avoid riding on the State Hwy. After about 50km we mounted our trusty steeds on some quiet country roads. The winds were better today so it was a very pleasant ride through sheep, cattle and deer (elk) farms. We ended the 45km ride at the Waipara Springs winery where we had a very nice lunch and then followed this with one more wine tasting before returning to Christchurch. Once in Christchurch we met the rest of our group, sorted out the bikes and had a lovely evening meal together. Our group is made up of 4 Germans, 3 Canadians, 2 Brits and 1 American. Tomorrow we set off for Arthur's Pass via Porters Pass the latter of which we have decided not to ride for safety reasons. We drove it the other day and did not like what we saw. We are heading into some remote territory so I may not be able to be reached or to blog for a few days.

Hobbit crocs. I will buy some of these if I find them in a store when it is open.

Our little gang of cyclists as we set off this morning

I lovely little vegetable stand with an honour box.

Quiet roads allowed for a little discussion time.

Gail resting on the sheep monument in Waikari

Gail on the road. Note the very neat cedar hedge rows in the background that are used as wind breaks, boy are they necessary.

Two Sisters of No Mercy with the sheep monument.

Today's ride: 45 km (28 miles)
Total: 1,190 km (739 miles)

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