Tākaka to Hanmer Springs | Time Out 2021-22 Drive

Robin Capper

03 Feb 2022 — 4 min read

I was sad to be leaving Golden Bay, but glad I was able to get out. The forecast storm wasn't full on yet, but the weather certainly was deteriorating.

By the end of the day 200-300mm of rain had fallen (with another 250-380mm expected) and roads I had been riding around Golden Bay and Nelson were closed by the storm. On top of that, ten days later Cyclone Dovi struck NZ causing widespread damage.

I was heading to Christchurch, to fly home for a week, but had a night in Hanmer Springs enroute.

Back over Tākaka Hill, not a day for riding it!

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Checked out the mechanics holiday bolthole, ready for a retirement place.

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Bravo HGT in Motueka Valley, took the scenic quiet road I'd recently ridden.

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Maruia Falls

Maruia Falls were pumping from all the rainfall. Amazing to think these were created overnight by the 1929 Murchison earthquake. Took the advice given...

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If you are photobombed by a bee, is it photo'bee'mbed?

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Lewis Pass

This is a stunning drive, even in less than perfect weather.

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The St James Walkway Car Park: In 2012 we cycled from here back to Hanmer Springs.

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Back then were supposed to be riding West but headed East, downhill with a strong tailwind, and later drove back. The advantage of a supported tour and one of my most memorable South Island rides.

Lewis Pass: The St James Walkway Car Park

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Quite a lot of road works in the pass, gloomy weather in the distance.

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Island Hills overlooking Hope River

Remember stopping at the top of this climb, for a rest and photos, when cycling in 2012.

It was in December, a lot greener before the summer heat kicked in.

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Bravo HGT at Island Hills and Hope River

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Hanmer Springs

About a decade since I was last here, lots of development in a once small mountain village.

I changed my plans enroute, decided to add a day to my stay. Had booked at Forest Peak Motel, days before, but had asked, on arrival if I could add an extra night. Unfortunately, they were fully booked but I found for another place for the second (Friday) night. Took a bit of finding as the long Waitangi holiday weekend meant, if not booked, many places had a two-night minimum.

Once settled in I just went for a short walk around the village, got some takeaway dinner, and retired for the night as more rain set in.