Lake Wakitipu – from our window

Queenstown, on the shore of the crystal-clear Lake Wakitipu in New Zealand’s South Island, is often described as “New Zealand’s Adventure Capital” – perhaps not altogether surprising given that the area is host to the original AJ Hackett bungy jump.

Flying into the local airport visitors quickly appreciate just how spectacular the area is, with the airport nestled between imposing ranges, still showing patches of snow in early Summer. A quick shuttle trip to the accommodation for the weekend, and just enough time to admire the view of Lake Wakitipu from the window, before it was off to Bikeaholic to pick up the bikes for the first ride for the weekend.

Arriving at midday, leaving only half a day available for the first ride, the original intention was to grab a bike taxi out to the historic Arrowtown for lunch, then take the downhill run into Queenstown to relax for the evening. In the end the taxi services made the decision for us – with no taxi available to take us to Arrowtown it was onto the bike for the uphill slog in the heat of the day.

The Boatshed for lunch – Day 1

First task though was to find some lunch. An easy ride along the lakeside Trail took us to The Boatshed, something of an institution in Queenstown, and ideally situated right alongside the trail. Sitting on the deck overlooking the lake, it was tempting to simply stay on, but Arrowtown beckoned: fortified with fine food and coffee, and supplied with several of the “world famous in Queenstown” Boatshed “sticky buns” for trail sustenance it was time to go.

Initially the ride around the edges of Frankton and the Frankton Arm of Lake Wakitipu was relatively tame:  a few minor “ups and downs” but nothing to be too concerned about. Unfortunately that did not last long, as the track around the Lower Shotover River, and then back onto the Kawerau River was accompanied by increasingly frequent – and increasingly steep – climbs.

Some steep climbs approaching Arrowtown

With temperatures reaching close to 30 degrees, a rare shaded spot alongside the river for “R & R” was welcome – although the sticky buns had not coped well with the heat.  Still, the extra sugar rush was no doubt beneficial for those that partook.

Turning away from the river after about 28 kms the track climbs steadily approaching Arrowtown. Spectacular views of the river and surrounding mountains of course – just a beastly series of climbs to get to see them! Plenty of signs of the overpopulation of rabbits too, but they were apparently smart enough to stay in the shade in the hottest part of the day, leaving the track to the insane cyclists.

Shortly after crossing the Edgar Bridge, about 5 kms from Arrowtown, a slight mishap for me. Riding slightly ahead of the pack with Paul, we stopped at the top of a rise to allow the others to catch up. Not at all impressed with the plaque recording that the bridge had only recently been opened by (former Prime Minister) John Key, I “rested my eyes” and promptly found myself falling on top of my bike, face first into the gritted track.

No permanent damage done fortunately (apart from to my pride), although after carrying the team first-aid pack for several trips without using it, those sticking plasters finally came in handy for a quick patch up on a finger cut by the brake hood. The bruises came later. I’m not sure if falling “on” a bike (I had dismounted) is considered the same as falling “off” a bike, but I guess in either case survival without permanent damage is the main thing.

And the lesson for all: there is no point in carrying water on a hot day if you don’t drink it regularly! That beer at Arrowtown was looking good though. 

We did finally make it, convening at “Micky Finn’s” for those very welcome tonics, while Dale used his negotiating skills to arrange transport back to Queenstown.

Many thanks to Queenstown Bike Taxis for coming to our rescue and picking us up at short notice. We certainly recommend this service.