Day 12. Taumaranui to Ohakune

Cor this was a long day that was made to feel longer by the numerous hills that seemed to begin the ride. I stopped a few times out of general knackeredness and the fact that I really didn't want to leave the campground as was obvious by my tardy departure of around 11am!!!

Stopped in fabbo pub/hotel and met some equally lovely people as in the campground. Andrea made me a great bacon and cheese toastie and chattered away with another lass who worked as a diary farmer nearby.

After my indulgent stop the day turned to drizzle and felt as if I was back in Scotland!! Of course this was as I was traversing the National Park at an elevation of 825m and couldn't see a damn thing - hoping cars could see my wee lights or I was going to end my days as carnage on the mountains!!

Turned in at the Nationsl Psrk village for a cuppa and was indulged to the dulcet jazzy tones of a young German guy who was on his day off and playing his sax .. Say no more eh?!

Turning myself back into the dreach day I ventured forth soaked to the skin until just before Ohakune where the sun deared to poke its weary head out and indulge me for another 10km .. Till the familiarity of Ohakune welcomed me and I turned into a place called the Hobbit ... I know I vouldn't help myself!!