July 18th: Marlborough to Yaamba – 68.5km

Day 278

The patch worked and we were off for yet another great day of cycling. More rolling hills, and sunshine.

In Yaamba we stopped at another free rest area and took advantage of the fact that we have trikes and tent. Bordered by a low wooden gate to prevent cars from parking on the grass we had our pick of camping spots. However, after we set up our tent we realized that we were right next to two graves for two different dogs. It seems that this is a grey nomad tradition, seeing as this is public property.

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We have also seen a number of memorials where grey nomads have died at the various free rest stops. Between the dogs and their owners we are always sure to sleep on hallowed grounds. Thanks to a pub that also has showers we were able to pay homage to the deceased by performing our ablutions followed by a toast in their honor with two cold beers.

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