Day 23, Tirau - Matamata (about 30km)
Today is a short ride to the city of Matamata. The main landscape doesn't change from yesterday. However, the more we head for the North, heavier the traffic jam is.
Once arrived in Matamata, we take a bus unto Hobbiton which is our next stop to see the famous hobbit's village. It looks like it's get to be an amazing day. I'm so thrilled to see for real the Shire.
Indeed, after one hour visiting the village, I felt like I were in the movie, everything is utterly similar to the movie.
 |
| Matamata, Hobbiton's office |
After this nice visit, we come back to Matamata to pick up our bikes, pack our stuff and be ready to go on riding.
On the way ; shortly afterward, the left tyre of the trailer suddenly blows up. Then we have to go back to Matamata and wait for tomorow to buy a new one. That's very disappointing.
However, in our misfortune, we get lucky once again since on the way back to Matamata. An old man, about 60 years old, ask us to come over his home to have a rest. We can't refuse his offer.
He quickly makes us comfortable. His name is Roger and he lives in a pretty house with his wife Anne. In their backyard, there is a motor home and he even offers us a night in it. They are such nice people.
During the evening, we meet also Trevor, who is the best friend of Roger. They know each other for quite a long while. They pay us some cold beers and we spent the beginning of the night together.
Before going to bed, Trevor gives us a peace of paper with his address on it. Shortly after, he talks us into passing by his home anytime as soon as we'll be around Papakura (Auckland's south outskirt). Of course we don't refuse his offer.
We are once again very surprised and happy by the goodness of the Kiwis who so far, ever helped us and greeted gently. Plus, what a pleasure to sleep on a real mattress tonight !
However, in our misfortune, we get lucky once again since on the way back to Matamata. An old man, about 60 years old, ask us to come over his home to have a rest. We can't refuse his offer.He quickly makes us comfortable. His name is Roger and he lives in a pretty house with his wife Anne. In their backyard, there is a motor home and he even offers us a night in it. They are such nice people.
During the evening, we meet also Trevor, who is the best friend of Roger. They know each other for quite a long while. They pay us some cold beers and we spent the beginning of the night together.
Before going to bed, Trevor gives us a peace of paper with his address on it. Shortly after, he talks us into passing by his home anytime as soon as we'll be around Papakura (Auckland's south outskirt). Of course we don't refuse his offer.
We are once again very surprised and happy by the goodness of the Kiwis who so far, ever helped us and greeted gently. Plus, what a pleasure to sleep on a real mattress tonight !
THE SHIRE
 |
| Hobbit's house |
 |
| Gollum, The Lord Of The Ring |
 |
| Hobbiton's Tavern |
