The Otago Rail "Trial" - Part 1 - Nova Health - Specialising in Palliative Care and Nursing in New Zealand

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The Otago Rail "Trial" - Part 1

Friday, 19 March 2010 15:50

Last year we decided we would take the “company car” for some PR work around the South Island. Get the name out there! And of course, we would do some sight seeing while there as well.

First on the list was the Otago Rail Trail which I had heard was pretty awesome. I persuaded Ron (husband) to come and Mary (sister-in-law) joined us as well. So, with the camper packed, loaded with three bikes and three intrepid would-be travellers, we headed off.

So what is the Otago Rail Trail? When the Otago Central Railway line was closed, the land was given to DOC who, with the help of a trust, decided to make it a 150km trail for cyclists, walkers and horses. Being an old rail line, it’s steeped with history, passing through all these little towns such as Lauder and Wedderburn. It also passes through the original tunnels, gorges and bridges giving you some quite spectacular scenery.

In saying all that though, being an old line it’s also flat! And exposed! And hence the ‘Trial’ in the title. Being exposed, if it’s windy, you ride with or against the wind with nothing protecting you. No trees or hills to give these old lungs and muscles a break. And boy, when it blows, it blows!

I can imagine it would have been a really lovely train ride with regards to the scenery, but on a bike, you’re only going 20 km/h not 80 km/h so the scenery lasts a little longer. Which can sometimes be the problem. Especially when all you see straight ahead is a straight trail - for miles and miles and miles. The scenery starts to get a bit repetitive.

But you have to expect this. It’s an old rail line of course and wasn’t originally designed for cyclists (I really couldn’t imagine walking it) so there are other things that make this a special ride. And the biggest would have to be the people. I think this is the main reason you would do the trail. Old, young, different nationalities, it’s just great to see so many different types of people getting out and enjoying themselves. And believe me, you do enjoy it.

While in Dunedin, we found out about the Taieri Gorge Railway. This tourist train runs along another part of the old line. We decided to jump aboard and see what all the fuss was about.

At around $70 it’s not a cheap trip but we were looking for something different. The landscape was amazing. Completely untouched (including the gorse!) and very much in the wop-wops. I really couldn't imagine living in such a remote area but one elderly lady seems to love it. For years and years she has popped out of her home and waved to the passing train every single time it goes by. Love the dedication.

To be continued...