Thursday November 15, 2012, 43 miles (69 km) – Total so far: 1,012 miles (1,629 km)

Last night we had a nice fish dinner in the pub and talked with many locals. It was a good time. We had an early start on the trail and soon it was raining. We continued through the muddy trail and gave greetings to many cyclists headed the opposite way. Our speed was slowed considerably due to the gravel and rain. Lunch time finally came five hours later at the Waipiata Tavern where we enjoyed a pint and a delicious warming soup. When we left I discovered my second puncture probably from a sharp stone as I couldn’t find anything on the tire. After fixing that we rode a quick 10 km to the town of Ranfurly where we found the Post Office Backpackers. Tomorrow we continue on the trail.