Words Liam Friary
Image Cameron Mackenzie

Recently, I had the privilege of being able to travel overseas again, far from home. It was bloody splendid! Yet, at the same time, it made me grow even fonder of our antipodean home. The thing that struck me most was the ultra-strong community within biking – regardless of where you are in the world. I was picked up, driven around, put up, fed, shown through incredible trail networks, and often had bikes thrown my way. All of this was made simple by people involved in the bike industry who weren’t just doing their job, but were all-round good folk, too. These people make this trade even more special; their passion carries through all aspects of life and is what binds us together, thanks to one common denominator: bike riding. I am incredibly thankful to those who have made time, beds, van space and garages available – it was great to share rides together.

The thing is, in these current tough times, everyone says the grass is greener. And wherever it is that they want to be, that’s the grass that is greenest. Depending on your own reality, there might be some truth to the old adage but, after a few months on the road, trippin’ around North America, I can tell you Aotearoa isn’t a bad place to be. Don’t get me wrong – my time away was fantastic. But it just showed me that we have so much packed into our little country and, with a smaller population, there seems to be a tighter bond. Of course, I am the first one to peek over the fence to look for greener grass, but I always end up reflecting on the pure beauty of our motu.

I am reminded to stay grounded in these times and think about what I have, not what I don’t have. For me, bike riding is one thing I’ll always have – it’s a major part of my lifestyle and gives me so much more than just employment. As always, I’m thankful for the places it has taken me and the people I meet along the way – both overseas and right here in our own backyard.