TA day 18: Brightwater to Taparewa
Distance 45km, Elevation Gain 380m
First up many many thanks to our hosts Alan Ross and Claire Dallison who went out of their way in welcoming us to their home, cooking us a super dinner and full English breakfast, and to top that off, lunch for the day and makings for beef burgers tonight. What a generous couple and friend of the TA. Thanks again to you both.
Pretty easy day today as planned in case yesterday’s climb was too much but we needn’t have worried as we’re now cycling warriors (aren’t we Alastair!), ready to take on whatever those Kennetts throw at us.
From Brightwater, Alan joined us for the gentle Great Taste Trail that winds its way through Belgrove then onto the old Nelson railway track up to Spooners Tunnel, a 1320m long disused tunnel that is now a tourist attraction. The tunnel slopes up and descends so only towards the end can you see the opening as it rises like the moon in the distance. Stunning.
Alan returned home so we thanked him again for the wonderful experience and hospitality, then we rode a fast cycle way down into Kohatu to devour our pre-packed lunch and sip on coffee with a slice. We decided not to stay at our pre-arranged digs, instead we booked loggings at Tapawera. Beforehand a short stop at Tapawera 4Square for a 6 pack to quench our thirst sitting in the shade on Main Street.
We can higher recommend Farm Therapy to those traveling in this area. Elwynn welcomed us to her small farm where there is accommodation as shown in the photos. Nothing was too difficult for Elwynn who took care to see that we had everything needed.
