Day 2: St Arnaud to Picton on SH63then to Wellington by ferry 230km

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It is so good to be on the road again. 

Apart from the minor issues with the panniers yesterday our gear 'works. 
If' you are wondering about how we managed our panniers yesterday. Let me tell you zip ties have magical powers. More magical powers than CRC or Duct tape when it comes to holding our panniers onto the bike.

After all the work I have done in limbering up to be sure I can get on - and off - the bike with ease I have discovered a minor issue.  Unlike me...  my motorbike pants have minimal flex because of the kevlar armour protecting knees and hips. I'll be looking for a fix for this. 


Marlborough clouds presage...
...Marlborough vineyards that stretch from one side of the Wairau valley across to the Wairau river
Our first stop is at VB Cafe in Blenheim for breakfast with Pat and Mike
Across the Wairau River to Picton.
Photo: Ken Rigby

...where we  have a leisurely lunch with my sister Yvonne and Ken in Picton.

..before we board the Ferry to Wellington. 30 other motorcyclists come on board. Mostly Ulysses club members.
The ferry trip is a stunner. Picturesque Picton
Sheep on this truck are missing out on the views of Queens Charlotte Sound.
Through the Tory Channel to Cook Strait. Look now calm it is.  I am a very happy sailor today.

We disembark and head off up the hill to a warm welcome from Ken and Shirley. A Team Kiwi reunion and some reminiscing about our from Alaska to Patagonia ensued. Ken has been in hospital so it was good to catch up. Ebony was in the garage to welcome Orlanda.


We headed down the road to the Museum Hotel where Orlanda had a grand chandeliered shed for the night. 
She didn't mind for a moment sharing this splendid smokers' space



Location: Wellington, New Zealand

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