An Introduction

Hi Folks, I am a keen biker, both on the road and on my mountain bike. I live in Nelson and have spent many happy hours exploring our wonderful countryside. I am also a keen tramper, and got into biking about three years ago to recover from a knee injury and now I am hooked. I produce merino cycle jerseys which I sell online and at the Nelson Market on Saturdays. In a couple of weeks I am off to the Culverden Country Fete with my bike jerseys and my other business, Handwoven wool and mohair clothing. I will be setting off in the Gypsy Rose, my old Bedford Campervan to see the country as well as speak to retailers who I supply with my woven clothing. A great excuse to get on the bike and explore what other regions have to offer. I am keen to get into bike touring in the near future and am exploring options for the ideal touring bike. I want one which will be good on the tarmac, but also will take me over the gravel backcountry roads.

In New Zealand we are on the verge of creating a network of cycle trails which will hopefully link up and provide some great trips for bikers. In the South Island we already have the Central Otago Rail Trail which is very popular with a wide range of ages and experience levels. In Nelson we hope to have cycleways developed over the next few years which will provide coastal cycleways through to Motueka and beyond. Already money has been allocated for a cycleway on the St. James Station near the Lewis Pass, and in Queenstown an extensive trail is being planned which will be great to visit after doing the Otago Rail Trail.

I will keep you posted on any new developments with regard to my Aspiring Cyclewear, and will let you know how my South Island trip goes.

Goodbye for now,
Rosemary Weir