Last weekend was a long one here and the weather had finally fined up just in time for our June tarmac ride.  Sunday was the day of the ride and it was probably the pick of the days - pretty chilly but no wind and plenty rays to catch.

I got away from home a little later than planned - trying to find something vital probably - and so was quite surprised when I got to Fielding and saw a lot of bikes already there and ready to rock and roll.

And as per usual, rather than simply changing worn tyres, there were some new steeds on display - some just a little bit special too...

Our first leg took us over through Okoia to meet up with two more riders in Upokongaro.

Next up was a delightful if slightly cautious (cold, damp roads in places) trip up the Paraparas to the bottom of Fields Track.  Here we lost the Tracer and a hungry super-charged beast (with a rider who didn't fancy pushing) while the main bunch headed up Fields Track.
What a neat little ride!  The road was in far better condition than I expected (it is winter after all) and up front I chased the sheep and peacocks off the road for everyone before stopping near the top to take in the fantastic view.

The rest of the ride through to SH49 was just as good.  Here is just a little taste of one great back road.

In Ohakune we stopped to say hi to Neil who was out and about wearing fluro lycra for some reason but didn't hang around to eat there as the town was flat out with their "Ca...