the valley was entirely variable, some
places having compact gravel excel-
lent to rip across while others had 100
metre long mud bottomed pond/pud-
dle crossings.
Eventually I got into the Upper
Nevis area where there is an eerie
historical graveyard and a couple of
currently working stations, but most
importantly where the track turns
back to hard pack dirt and gravel for
the rest of the ride.
Enjoying the 'remarkable' view of
the Remarkables conservation area in
the rear-view mirror I made the climb
up Duffers Saddle to 1300m for a quick
selfie with “the highest public road in
NZ” sign and the easy ride back to a
much-needed hose back where I was
staying.
Not something I would ever advise
doing alone, despite going slowly and
carefully doing so myself was not the
brightest idea I’ve ever had, I can’t
say enough about this ride. With sec-
tions that are technically tricky, lots of
fords, incredible views, and samples
of local history there’s not much more
you could ask for.
The third exploration in Queen-
stown was not of the motorcycle va-
riety; I hopped in a big beautiful old
Chrysler Valiant as three of us head-
ed off for an afternoon exploring the
TRAVERSE 31
delightful wineries and patio bars
through the Gibbston Valley to Arrow-
town.
After the previous days exercise,
being chauffeured around a handful
of stone cellars full of pinot noirs and
chardonnays to be sampled in the sun
was just what the doctor ordered, al-
though with my uncultured palate I
will admit that the best stop of the
day was at the Gibbston Tavern where
there was a fine selection of small
batch craft beers on tap to be sampled
on their extended patio.
If you’re into viniculture or are just
looking for a way to spend a day near
Queenstown, there are rental bikes to