From Lyell I start out on the road around ten again, steadily riding through hilly terrain to Murchison (35km) where I go grocery shopping and rest in the small park next to the bowling green. The town is fairly nice with lots of Cafés but also everything else you need. I recharge my batteries and book the ferry to Wellington.
After a long break I continue on to Kawatiri Junction at 15.30. The road is hilly but a light tailwind makes if feel like it’s going downhill.
The junction, turnoff to either the east or the north, is reached at six o’clock (+35km). I stop only shortly to look at the old railway bridge.
Soon Hope Saddle looms before me, a 630 metre high pass. The evening sun burns still hot but 40 minutes later the actually only 200 metres of steep ascent are over. 🙂
At the top, there is a lookout from which one has a 360 degree view on the surrounding countryside. From here I roll gently down the mountain into Clarke valley. This recreational reserve has freshly mown paths and areas on both sides of the road, inviting you to pitch your tent.
I turn into one area looking for a nice spot and meet a couple of hikers who have already set up camp near a small stream. I set up next to them and we talk a while about hiking and cycling in New Zealand.