After an early rise it’s time for breakfast and doing dishes

There was a weka as well looking for food

We’re on our way again

This is the Kumara Reservoir

Sensitive areas stay well protected

Kawhaka Forest

Another (unnamed) reservoir, just south of the Old Christchurch Road

Time for a short rest and a nut bar

Some water level controlling station

Rachel cycling

The Kawhaka Creek

A side (walking) track, to a historic dam, of course we go and have a look

The historic dam

Yet another bridge

It’s fantastic to cycle through these woods

The track is very varied, now we have great views of the mountains again

Time for another rest

Soaking up some sun

The very summit of the Kawhaka Pass, it should be (mostly) downhill from now on

Yay, it goes downhill indeed, we needed that

So peaceful here, we’re the only ones on the track, which really adds to the experience

The inevitable happened: a puncture, so I get the repair kit out and fix it

Many bridges to cross

Had there been a water source here we would have camped here as the grass almost looks mowed and is so flat,

And the views are great

We’re now in Cowboy Paradise

Not sure what this is supposed to be/become

Enjoying the view and some food

A selfie

I’m very happy with the pannier bags

Crossing the Arahura river

We have about done our kilometers for today so we pitch the tent while we still have access to the river, the fact the ground here is flat is an added bonus

What a view!