It was a very warm (28 degrees) autumn day for our ride from Waipawa to Tikokino (Central Hawkes Bay). The ride is mainly a there and back, with a small loop. The roads travelled were very low traffic (open speed limit) with only a short section of State Highway 50. Apart from the hills around Lime Rock Wines, the roads are flat. The scenery consists of farmland. The trees were displaying the last of the autumn colours.

Distance 49kms.

The pub at Tikokino, “Sawyers Arms Hotel” is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Instead we stopped at a Tikokino local’s house, for a planned morning tea. From there we travelled a short distance around the corner to the Tikokino Topiary Garden in Murchison Street. John has an extensive collection of box hedging, plus he makes incredible wire sculptures – a very creative and clever man.

Route: Tikokino Road – State Highway 50 – Buckland Street – Murchison Street – Owen Street – State Highway 50 – Butler Road – Tikokino Road.

With thanks to our host, Geoff Long.