We took part in a few events at the Taranaki Cycle Festival this past weekend. I joined in the Frocks on Bikes mystery ride to support women riding bikes for daily transportation, wearing a frock or dress, for example. It was hilarious. 17 of us rode about town, paraded through an antique bike exhibit, and finished off with champagne at an art gallery. I had gone mountain biking before with one of the gals (red dress and ferns in her helmet). She led me and 2 others on a “beginner” ride. “Come on, it’s got some tricky parts but give it a go!” Kiwis definitely blow past the intro level in most outdoor activities.

Des and Kai (and maybe me) are signing up for the next Velo Deus 20, a race on 20 inch wheel antique bikes. 4 to a team and you can trade off every 2 laps on a short loop course downtown. Crazy is an understatement. Do they do this in Austin?

On Saturday we happened upon the Extravaganza Fair. Gypsy meets music fair meets steampunk! Kai designed a silk screen hat and air brushed his arm with skulls. The traveling trailers are out of this world.

The NZ Cycle Fest also hosted a bike film night which was very similar to our Surf and Soul Cinema Series in Port Aransas. The founder was a cool guy who chose inspiring short films. Look up the Zenga family and their video, Tall Bikes Will Save the World. Here’s the link: https://vimeo.com/218705523

A quaint, retro bike exhibit was set up at East End skate park as well. There were a few “oohs and ahhs” and “I’d like to make that” from Kai and Des.

I had the first New Zealand birthday and my present to all of us was at night out to see the Michael Jackson History Show at the TSB theater downtown. The star gave it everything he had and I feel like I witnessed the real deal!

As you can see, New Plymouth has a great vibe. Hee Hee!