Wellington Waterfront to Miramar

On Thursday 2 December, we had no tradesmen coming to work on our renovations, so we made the most of our “free” day, by going for a bike ride along the waterfront. We took the train into town, and after coffee and scones at Karaka Café, we biked to the end of Oriental Parade. I thought we would be turning around there and going back. But John was keen to carry on.

The bikes on the train (photo by John)

Karaka Café has several bike racks now (photo by John)

The installation of festive lights in the Norfolk pines on Oriental Parade,
is a reminder that Christmas is nearly upon us

We biked all around the Harbour Way, around the Miramar Peninsula until Worser Bay. A cool breeze made itself felt at times, as we wended our way in and out of the various bays.

Around Point Jerningham (photo by John)

From Worser Bay, we turned into Awa Road, and rode over the top of the hill down into Miramar. I was reluctant to head that way, as it is a very steep road, but John scoffed, and I followed. Thank goodness for electrical assistance!

Awa Road is very steep! (photo by John)

Down in Darlington Road, John wanted to stop at Big Al’s Camera Shop. He loves to have a yarn with Al, and browse his antique cameras. John collects (or should I say, used to collect) old cameras – he has about 50 beautiful specimens, all of which he has taken photos with. Unfortunately the shop was not open, so on we went, back towards the Miramar Cutting, and back to the waterfront.

Near Big Al’s Camera Shop (photo by John)

Because John has been placing his camera on the back of his bike, set to automatically take a picture every couple of minutes, we don’t have many inspiring photos. It’s mostly shots of me biking behind him, though this method produces the occasional good shot. With his balance out of whack, and his eyesight somewhat compromised, it makes it more difficult to stop to take good photos.

John in photographer mode

Still, the important thing is that we get out and enjoy the ride. By the time we got back to the train, we had done 38 km, quite a respectable distance.