This ride was a lot of fun, on a track that had something for everyone to enjoy – forest, farmland, singletrack and interesting volcanic scenery.

The dozen or so riders had a cold, clearish day to enjoy the far side of Lyttelton Harbour. They left from the Blue Duck for Gebbies Pass, meeting several other groups of riders making the most of the decent weather.

As the group climbed, slush from the previous week’s snow lay beside the track. The Remarkable Dykes are a massive reminder of the peninsula’s explosive origins, and the track ventured quite close to these rock formations.

It is not recommended to beginners, due to the nature of the track and some big drop-offs. Riders are reminded that permission from the landowner is required – in fact he was delighted to be asked for this trip – ask Graeme Read for the contact details.

One crash is worth mentioning, for the unusual way that the ejectee “became one with the fence”, in the words of one rider. Most of the riders were at about the same level of confidence and ability, which made for a good even-paced ride.