When you are ever so grateful the tourist attraction '90 Mile Beach' measures 83 kilometres. An epic start to the Tour of Aotearoa, with all but perfect conditions. The stream onto the beach was challenging and we had a wee walk through. I had the first tumble onto soft sand but a wee knee twist that I'll need to be mindful of. The beach was awesome — mixed in with some rain that turned the sand to soup for a bit, and gentle winds most of the way. The TNT three forged a little ahead and the Twinkler three not far behind. Had a lovely meal at the motel accommodation and bedded down for what I hoped would be a great sleep.

Official Day 1 — a massive day. Hills to reach the beach, stream crossings, and hike-a-bike through soft sand. Beach conditions were changeable but mostly good; we had it all — a heavy downpour and a good soaking, though it did clear. Minimal wind until the last stretch, which was tough going with no real opportunity to rest. Huge support from the team. Great bed and dinner at the Ahipara Bayview Motel.

Big day one. One heavy rain shower that turned the sand to soup — soul-sucking. Just a long day in the saddle. Sweet as.