I have completed a preliminary shakedown ride, from Queenstown (where my son lives) to Glenorchy and back. This was over two days with an overnight camp stop in between. All went well, barring a few pannier related issues to do with the temporary pannier rack on my borrowed bike nearly causing me to have an emergency stop in the ditch.

The road is a bit challenging, I'm certain there is not a single flat spot on it in the 103 kilometers I rode. My legs felt that way towards the end anyway.

Aside from that I am now mentally, physically and logistically ready to go!!