PETE ’ S PEOPLE
Day 3 : Waingaro , John Shepherd makes the most of SH4
This was at the heart of why he originated Every Sun riders back in 2017 . “ I believe in personal discipline , and accountability on the bike , you must respect the other rider , and we never leave anyone behind , on the road or in life – if we can help it . “ I just think bullshit behaviour on a bike is reprehensible , and you have to lead with moderation and a bit of discipline . For both Leonie and I the most important aspect of any ride , anywhere - even when I ’ m in the South Island and I never want the roads to end – can be summed up in one goal , to get home to our boys , safe and sound .” What are his dreams ? “ Exploring NZ with Leonie , on bikes . A cold , cold beer at the end of the day , and a good Mince and Cheese pie . Paradise .” We arrived at Nikau Caves Café , ordered - gluten free , no onion , soy milk and the rest , and the sun came out . We were reluctant to leave for Auckland , but the lawns called , and a few winding , wet km later we were lane splitting up the southern from Drury , and then suddenly , waving goodbye , in bright sunshine . And the right testicular loop was done . 1230km , three and a half days , and a lifetime of experience . And the big lesson for me ? These two couples share everything , and any experience shared is doubled , right ? And then they share it again , with each other . I ’ m grateful they shared it with me too . I got to see one of my bucket list roads , and I got share it with friends , who are closer for the experience together - all down to two wheels and a lot of love . What about Brent ? Well , I ’ ve sent him a couple of pics , so contact me if Mr Momoa needs a double , I ’ ll be his agent . Gotta be a buck in it .
KIWI RIDER 73