In this series:
Springfield to Bealey
Arthur's Pass to Greymouth
Canterbury
Twizel to Cromwell
I'd started from Wellington the day before, that day being the first we'd seen any sun in a couple of weeks. As it turns out by going South I was following the path of the storm. On the ferry to Picton, we were told the storm had caused several landslips between Blenheim and Kaikoura. The tracks had been damaged and train services were not running at all. I considered making last-minute changes and making a detour via Nelson instead but it sounded like roads were dangerous all over. As it turns out, they ran a replacement bus service from Picton. With the state of the roads it took 9 hours to get to Christchurch instead of 6. There Alan of
Selwyn Shuttle had waited to take me to Springfield, and Pete at the
Springfield Hotel took me in at almost midnight. I was prepared for anything as the atrocious weather was beating down, but these folks were determined to make up for it with a ready smile. I am grateful.
The next day was much better, but the storm had graced the mountains with the first snow of the season. I had a sleeping bag and bivvy but I hoped to make it to Bealey and stay indoors.
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| Starting out at Springfield |
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| The season's first snow |
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| The climb starts |
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| Lonely climb (and shedding a layer) |
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| Lone rider in the alps |
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| Taking a break at Lake Pearson |
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| Finally the Waimakariri River |
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| At Bealey |
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