The mail runs again
• 19 March, 2022 – Taupo, NZ
33rd Mail Run Rally
With Covid still out there we were pleased to have around 50 people who decided to get their bikes out for this year’s Mail Run from Taupo to Napier. Friday night saw a get together for a meal with high anticipation for the next day’s ride, starting at 10am. The morning dawned fine and clear and first off were the 100 year old bikes being the Triumph Model H owned by
Robert Young of Whangarei, the
Indian Power Plus owned by myself from Hawke’s Bay and the ABC owned by Mike Harris of Wellington. These were followed by everyone else riding Nortons, Ariels, Indian 741’s, BSA’s and the like. First stop for the day was at the Rangitaiki Hotel where we regrouped, motors were tinkered with and bodies where stretched. Also at this stop was Dave McLeod from CHB with the E29 BSA that last year had mechanical issues but completed the run this year.
A few push starts soon had all back on the winding road through the hills to Tarawera Cafe for lunch. A good contingent of Hawke’s Bay Classic
Club members came and met us once again as they do every year. The Napier-Taupo road has two serious hills to cross before the pleasant downhill section enjoyed by most if they still had brakes left. Esk Valley was reached with sweeping corners, vineyards to go past with Napier just around the corner. The public that came out to watch us arrive were suitability impressed and amazed with the display of early motorcycle engineering and to hear where we had all just come from. Thanks to everyone that helped make this event a success. ■