March News Letter                                       

Branch President’s Report 

Niki Morrison Rest in Peace

The last meeting we had was a fairly somber one noting the recent passing of our  Sheriff Peter Web. However we have had another death in the club and the news of Niki Morrision’s sudden death is just horrific. Niki was a friend, colleague and a foundation member of the club and was our club administrator. Words fail me. What do you say at the time of such a loss. Niki was an amazing woman. I remember early on when I first joined Ulysses going on a group ride and she and Paul just annihilated that road. She could ride. I thought she was on a low flying scud missile rather than a bike. Twice we would reach waypoints and she was comfortably resting. Coffee nearly finished and ready to go. Meanwhile I had just arrived. Lol. She told me she had been to track days and learnt how to race and passed on a couple of tips. She had a great skill set.   

Over the last few years I have joined the North Harbour committee and was first the treasurer and then last year the President and I got to know Niki more in her administration roles. Working on the calendar, posting photos and events, updating what we were up to, putting our newsletter together. She spent hours on it but she loved the club and its people and she just kept on keeping on. At our last meeting Niki made it a point to sit with a new member and make her feel welcome. She didn't need to, it was extra, she just did it. Similarly she and Paul would host BBQs and she opened her home to all. With a chin wag, a smoke and a glass of wine in hand she made sure everyone was all connected and enjoying themselves. 

As you know she also loved her dogs and her puppies. When you first saw the wolf pack that lived on her property your eyes would move off the beautiful garden which she built to apprehensively watch some massive, powerful dogs running towards you. A little intimidating if you were not used to them but  Niki had them all under control. She had Paul make dog houses which were almost luxury apartments and for the more nervous she would put them away. She raised puppies and worked tirelessly on Saving Hope, a dog rescue programme. 

Niki had a big heart for all strays and she and Paul fostered teenagers. Teenagers are not easy. Not even those who have normal life backgrounds. But, some of the kids by the time they got to her had had an awful beginning in life and it took months and months and with relapses to help sort out the mess and feel safe and loved again. That was Niki and even though it took a lot out of her, she kept going and wanting to help.

Niki’s death is going to leave a chasm in the life of her family, her friends and everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed. It can't be otherwise. As with Peter we will grieve.  The loss and echo of someone can not be just switched off, it takes time and processing and very slow healing. Weeks, months and sometimes years. To everyone affected and touched by Niki’s passing, you have my condolences and sincere sympathy.   

Presidents Coffee Run

The inaugural Coffee Run was a welcome respite after a hot as hades run to Waipu but with some wicked roads. The heat, the smell of baking tar, and fresh cut hay was intoxicating. But sitting in the shade, watching the V8’s rumble by with a coffee in hand was also very cool. Hope to shout you a coffee next time.  

The winner of this month’s award is Greg Norton. Greg was part of the scoping ride for our run to Waipu. So on Saturday he piled out of his driveway and went on automatic pilot. He was half way to work before he realised that he was going the wrong way. His next problem though was he was low on gas and he had to double back and find a gas station before making the rendezvous point late. Greg has also been nominated for RIC Riders co-ordinator. So we are looking forward to some interesting times. 

No single winner this month but a group acknowledgement for everyone's support of the Webb family. For the truly generous act of kindness in being there for Peter and his family.

Ulysses National Rally and AGM 11-13 April 2025

Looking forward to some warm Naki hospitality and riding some new roads. Check out the Ulysses Taranaki web page, register and book yourself some accommodation. https://ulysses.org.nz/national-rally-and-agm/  

I'm going down on Thursday 10th April either by bike or car and anyone heading that way on Thursday, - (this is the day before the AGM) please feel free to join me in a convoy. Rendezvous will be at the Autobahn Cafe on the Southern Motorway leaving at 9.30am