Firstly, a big
thanks to Sue and Neil Courtney and the rest of the Social Subcommittee for putting this
great run together. Just give them an idea and they will make it happen. After refuelling it was off to the Tangiwai
Memorial, then on to the first optional metal section for the day. The road had just been
graded and it was a bit like driving on marbles. (Maxine's comment, "Are you sure
this is a bloody road and not just some farmers track?") Then on to the Gentle Annie road to Napier. By this time the weather was
getting a bit better, and what a MaGic road, just what rag top MGs were made for. The
scenery spectacular and the right foot twitching, but this was being over-ridden by the
governor in the passenger's seat. Morning tea stop and re-group at Rangitikei River bridge. Most of us
walked across the original old Springvale suspension bridge. Quite amazing the outstanding
condition of the steel cables after all these years. So far an incident free run for all cars and everyone enjoying the
drive.
On one of the many mean climbs, our little convoy caught up to 'Old Blue'.
Old Blue seemed to be enjoying the challenge and making easy work of the climb – but
then a sudden loss of power and a bit of a struggle to the top of this hill. Sadly not a
side of the road repair, a blown head gasket was the diagnosis but Old Blue struggled on
to Napier, on two cylinders. Lunch was at Silky Oaks Chocolate Factory, just outside of Napier. A good
choice, much sampling and spending. Here Bernard was seen entertaining 4 attractive young
Asian girls – photos in the B with his Biggles hat and Goggles. They loved him –
or was it the car (better watch him Mary) After lunch, more excitement; Dawn lost her car keys. Fortunately they
were found by one of the team on a lawn area outside the café, whew. Graham's now going
to hide a spare key in the car; something we should all think about. Overheard in the car park when someone commented on Rex's car saying she's
beautiful, Rex's response – "Yes, and so is my wife."
After lunch some headed off to check out local scenery and wineries. A
small group stayed at the chocolate factory to make sure Sue and Ernie were OK. The AA was
coming with a transporter for old Blue. Next drama was a call from Tony to say the motel didn't have a booking for
us. I was responsible for the booking, but my word against theirs. Fortunately they had a
double unit, so all's well we thought, till Maxine opened the fridge and a beautiful
bottle of wine smashed on to the floor. However a few drinks and a bit of relax, then fish and chips for dinner in
a nice little conference room – part of the motel. Then for the serious part of the
evening – a Sue and Neil quiz. Team BOP (Lynn, Bob, Eileen and Graham) showed us up
and took the prize; nice to have them on the run. I'm sure a great day was had by all – looking forward to driving the
Gentle Annie again, it's definitely a must for anyone who hasn't done it. Only six
kilometres of metal left and I'm sure that will be sealed in the near future. Back to Day 1 - Destination
Ohakune Maxine and John Borchard |
