Pirinoa to Featherston: and back to Wellington by train

Sunday May 27, 2018, 35 miles (56 km) - Total so far: 4,781 miles (7,694

km)

The weather forecast was not at all promising, although it did suggest that the morning should be better. As we woke up to torrential rain, we didn't feel too optimistic!! We had a slow start but there was no real improvement, so we set off in a bid to avoid the strong winds that were heading our way later.

As it happened, it rained for an hour or so and then pretty much cleared up. It was a lovely ride too - we took the long route around the far side of Lake Wairarapa, which actually covers part of the Rimutaka trail. We'd certainly recommend it, and the whole of this mini-tour. Here's today's route for anyone who's interested:
https://www.strava.com/activities/1598540162

I was worried about Ed getting cold (in his shorts and no waterproof trousers as he'd given them to me!) so set a relatively fierce pace.....meaning we were in Featherston about 3 hours early. We actually managed to waste this time admiralty by spending some time browsing books and drinking hot drinks at the lovely 'Loco' cafe, tasting surprisingly good cheese (for New Zealand) at 'C'est Cheese', eating some excellent chips at the local chippy, and buying provisions for at the small supermarket. We missed the museum which was a shame as it's supposed to be really good. There were at least two other cafes we could have visited too, if it had come to it. Alas the library is closed on Sundays.

The train back to Welly was straightforward once again. The weather did indeed close in, but we managed not to get blown into the sea on our way back to the good old YHA.

So that is that for cycle touring for a little while.....back in a few months when we reach Italy and head for home!