Introduction



Seven years ago B and I did the Central Otago Rail Trail.  While I had cycled on and off over the years I had never been for a long bike ride.  Despite the sore bum, which was a bit agonising by the end of the ride, it began a bit of a love affair with the bike. Instead of going for the odd jaunt along a relatively flat piece of land I have found myself doing hilly 90 kilometre rides, and trying out the odd adventurous trail.  One of my favourites has been the Remutaka Cycle Trail, which was done in two parts. The other favourite ride has been The Gong - an 80-90 kilometre ride from Sydney to Wollongong. 

B and I had been eying up the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail which goes from Mount Cook village to Oamaru for some time.  Then it was decided to do it and the bookings were made.  We decided to take our own bikes and to drive down.  All that we desire is fine weather.  Being New Zealand we just have to cross our fingers. 

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