Wanganui Y.M.C.A. Cycling Party Home From Rotorua

Wanganui Chronicle, 17 January 1949, Page 4

Wanganui Y.M.C.A. Cycling Party Home From Rotorua

The 25 members of the Wanganui Y.M.C.A. cycling tour, which left the city on December 27, returned last Friday. The leader of the party was the Rev. Stuart Wyness, chaplain of the Wanganui Y.M.C.A. The cyclists took with them a car and trailer to carry the camping equipment that could not conveniently be carried on the bicycles. The tourists made their way northward in easy stages to Jerusalem, Pipirlki, Raetihi, National Park, Taumarunui, Tokaanu, Taupo, Wairakei, Huka Falls, Waiotapu and Rotorua, then, on via Tirau and Karapiro, to Cambridge and Hamilton. The return journey was made via Te Awamutu, Otorohanga, Waitomo, Te Awamutu, Taumarunui, Raetihi, and Parapara Road.

The ages of the cyclists range from 13 years to 24 years and they travelled in small sections a considerable distance apart, a procedure which they found most satisfactory in view of the great amount of traffic on the roads.

The outward journey had been favoured with exceptionally good weather, with only a few light showers. On the homeward journey moderate, and at times heavy, rain fell.

Mishaps occurred on the long journey but all were of a minor nature, punctures being the most frequent. The majority of the party returned fit and well.

The party camped at nights in a variety of places, including school buildings, Scout halls, school bicycle shed, Maori pa, back of lorries, verandahs of private homes and church halls.