Otematata to Oamaru | Time Out 2021-22 Otematata Oamaru Drive
Time to farewell Lake Escape Apartment, that last, last, last, look to check you haven't left anything behind...
Another lovely Benmore morning.
I drove the road ridden yesterday, along Lake Aviemore, heading for an Oamaru overnight stop.
Scars of the incredible geological forces that shape this land are evident.
Back to Kurow
I hadn't had any breakfast, for a good reason as driving past Waitaki Braids. Parked the Bravo next to a younger (supposedly a class smaller, but is it?) sibling, a Fiat Punto!
This cute customer dog was eagerly greeting every arrival.
Waitaki Braids take French Toast and Coffee to another level.
Heading out of town past the renovated Waitaki Hotel. Good to see it open as already declining trade plus COVID meant many small-town pubs struggled to survive.
Elephant Rocks
Had been to Elephant Rocks before:
When we rode the A2O in 2019 we stopped here on a non-riding, due to grim weather, day.
It was a lovely day; you can clearly see how this area got its name. There was an Adventure South tour (but no guides I knew) departing just as I arrived. They were headed to Oamaru via Enfield, as was I.
A twenty-year-old Fiat below much older rocks.
Been here a couple of times, but never had the courage to venture down this road...
Oamaru in the sun
Last time I was in Oamaru it was cold and wet, why we went that day, but not today.
Love the quirky signs, shops, and art in this area.
The elegant wide main street, you can see this was a wealthy town.
Over the hill to Bushy Beach Scenic Reserve
I went up the hill and checked out Bushy Beach Scenic Reserve.
There's a trail down to this beach, and along the ridge to wildlife viewpoints.
As far as I went. To avoid disturbing the yellow-eyed penguins/hoiho, you are asked to keep off the beach between 3 pm and 9 am.
It was before three, but decided to leave these fellows basking in peace.
I checked into Highfield Mews Motel, nice room, but I didn't do justice to the lovely Bacon & Egg pie and Almond Croissant, from Waitaki Braids, for dinner as only had a microwave to warm it. Tomorrow off to Christchurch, some repairs to organise, then fly home to Auckland for a week.
Robin Capper
