The Cambridge – Hamilton River Trail
The first day was supposed to be a short ride across the top of a dam to a campsite. However, the route across the dam was closed and a 15 km detour was required to reach the campsite at one of the largest rowing centers in NZ. Never could we have imagined that trails so beautiful would be built for bicycles. Even the carpentry work was superb. No chance of getting a sliver from any of the smoothly sanded down and ergonomically curved railings.
On our second day we left for Cambridge after first buying locally made and very delicious Cornish pasties that were filled with onions, potatoes and herbs. Within a few kilometers we found ourselves experiencing what would be like riding through a tropical garden conservatory that happened to have a board walk for cyclists. The wooden board walks switched into and out of gullies and up through the canopies of trees. There was a very fine mist falling about us and it lent to the whole experience. We were cautious about going downhill on the wet board walks, but they were covered with a plastic mesh that gave some grip. When not on the board walks we were on wide paths of packed gravel or even cement. Of course I keep say bike trail, but walkers were welcomed also. This has been the only trail the past month where we have seen over 10 people due to the ca. 150 women cycling “The Rebel Tour”. Many were well into their 70s and on electric bicycles.
Set on Hamilton Lake, Hamilton is a lovely city and renowned for its botanical garden. So many paths leading up and down through the various garden themes. The native plantings really allow one to imagine NZ before sheep arrived. As it was starting to rain heavily, we decided to take The “Northern Explorer” passenger train from Hamilton to Wellington.
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