West Auckland Shakedown

Getting prepared for the
Armistice100 Convoy!

War is hell said Paul Baptist. These MVs didn’t get to choose when they came out to fight – they had to do it no matter what the weather. We are rolling rain or shine!

Using his Special Power to schedule events for filthy weather, Paul chose a date. Six vehicles assembled along with the chase car. The route was 61km of back roads winding up and down hills, away from fast traffic. Make friends with 2nd gear folks.

We met up outside Motu Moana Scout Base, the site of an earlier Easter Rally. Clayton and Scott were along for their maiden voyage with the Club. I brought along Sorin who has come to live with us – our third 17 year old boy that we are parenting. Joining the guys I encountered some friendly banter. “Put those feet away” demanded Wilson about my lily white Jandal clad feet. I had no idea he cared!

We started out in apparently harmless mediocre weather without much of the wet stuff. First stop was Laingholm Beach where an impromptu photo shoot was organised on the beach. Ready to leave, Greg experienced his recurring starter issue in the PJ but eventually it fired up. Maybe it’s for the best that the PJ is taking it easy and sitting out the Convoy at home in its warm cosy garage.

As the convoy climbed from the beach up into the Waitakere’s rainforest, the heavens unexpectedly opened to ritually cleanse the Jeeps and their owners of any dust and cobwebs. It fair tipped down at the next stop – Arataki Visitor Centre. Harry tried to effect repairs to his windshield wiper sheltering under an umbrella while perched on his bumper.

We took in the view of the inside of a cloud, looking out to where the Dam allegedly is. We took in the Maori carvings. No wonder the warriors were so angry and fierce. You would be too if someone tattooed your Willy and nuts. The look on the warrior’s face – priceless!

As we headed out of the carpark, the rain intensified as Paul brought his Special Power to bear. That Power is pretty awesome if you were not in a Jeep. We went past the summit and headed down the hill, making our way to Riverhead following the oil/gas pipeline route. Our lunch destination was reached – Brian Rosser’s garage when the BBQ was pressed into service. Paul’s Power had dwindled by this stage and it was just a pleasant drizzle. Oh well, the rain was great while it lasted.

We sat around contented in the shelter with spirits restored by food and beer. It was tempting to drift into a little nana nap but we were resolute and ventured down the garden path to the wonders of Brian’s shed. It is pretty amazing to be fair.

Everyone agreed that the day’s run was far better than wasting your life away inside watching TV and that is true. Thanks team for a fantastic shakedown!

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