Queenstown to Makarora

Todays cycle ride was pretty good. The climb early on (see elevation map) was tough and I had to stop half way up to catch my breath but managed to get up there without walking. The next part of the journey down to Lake Wanaka was downhill and more or less straight forward. From Wanaka, the journey to Makarora was really pretty, cycling past Lakes Hawea and Wanaka. The views were spectacular but the cycling tough, as once again we battled with strong unfavourable winds. The steep downhill stetches were dangerous with the wind, and at times I thought I was going to get blown off my bike. The following is a quote from a book that more or less summarised my feelings on the downhill windy stretches today:

"WIND: The wind can blow strong and hard. If it is so strong you have to pedal downhill to keep up momentum, then it is time to stop at the next location, or even turn around and go back. You're on holiday and this is supposed to be fun! Apart from the frustration of going nowhere fast, it can be dangerous and there is less control of the bike. "
(Chance of death, greater than average!!)

Having left the Lakes behind it was a bit of a hard slog to Makarora but we got there in the end. We stayed in an A framed, self contained unit which was a bit different. Having showered and had some food I fell asleep curled up in a ball on the bed, thoroughly exhausted. Mark woke me up to wash and go to bed and he'd done all of the prep for the next day... result!