Firstly, I need to say FB is really struggling with my posts and discussion about the particulars for this trip (the other F word). My last two posts have been taken down pending a FB investigation. Please subscribe to my blogs, or follow me on Insta, to keep up with the meladrama.

We slept well and woke super early – 3 women through the shower and ready in under an hour – gotta be some kind of record. Everything went smoothly at the airport. We were delayed on the taxi way due to a large volume of planes taking off, which was OK except I was absolutely busting to go to the bathroom. Literally we sat on the taxiway for between 20 – 30 mins (Jacqui and Michelle can’t agree…). Eventually took off and as soon as the seatbelt sign was off, so was I.

Flight was great, it’s a quick 3ish hours and we came in hot to Queenstown. Our first impressions:

MIchelle – “it’s not very green”

Bel – “it’s so hilly”

Jacqui – “the hills are naked”

Took us ages to get through customs and quarantine. Only one panic moment when I left my iPad in the public toilets and ran (yes, I can run sometimes when required) back to the cubicle to find my iPad safe and sound. Jacqui, with her management skills on full power, took my iPad and put it safely in her backpack. Thanks Boss.

We met Michelle Love (the other Michelle) who will be completing the challenge with us and the other 5 people who arrive tomorrow from Brisbane and NSW. We checked into our lovely apartment and walked into town for food and coffee. We also found beer, ice cream and dinner. We have just been amazed by the great vibe in town and the magic scenery.

Tomorrow we aim to do a couple of touristy things, a bit of reorganisation of kit for the cycling stages and then meet the rest of the crew for dinner.

Stay tuned! Much love, Bel