Day 141. Kalay - Gangaw

We have had a delightful ride through the countryside. Rice fields stretching away to the far off Chin mountain range. There are also many other crops also and some areas where Teak trees are planted. The Teak tree used to be the dominant feature in these parts but sadly they were harvested in an unsustainable way so there are few large specimens to be seen. There are signs of some reforestation taking place. 
We stopped along the way for a drink of water just as a group of women were heading home for a lunch break. We engaged with them and through  our guide we learned they were in the fields planting a crop of tomatoes. 
People are so friendly here. 





Shortly after this encounter we saw a lady driving an ox and cart. I pulled over and Robyn pointed to her camera to ask permission, she stopped the ox and gave us a great big smile. Delightful. 



I have to say it so relaxing to be away from craziness of the roads of the last few weeks. The sun is shining and all is well with the world. 



Gangaw is a small but pretty little place, we had a lovely lunch on the rooftop of our hotel. 


View from the rooftop of the hotel where we had lunch. 

We are getting a big load of washing done which includes our bike gear, the condition of which I will not describe. 
Our guide has also found someone to clean the bike. 
We will be squeaky clean but it will detract from the hardcore adventure traveller look. 

Before 

After

Once we had rested and it had cooled down a bit we took a wee walk. The local bikers came out to see us. 



Then we took in the highlights of a local football match, if Manawatu are looking for talent they could do worse than look here. Very nippy and talented guys. 



Then to small local market where everyone was so very friendly and happy for us to check out their wares and take pics. 




Dried fish 

Fish caught locally 

Traditional hats.

We then sampled some street food which was really tasty all deep fried in boiling hot oil - delicious. 





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