Today 12 km. Total 2228 km. 3 hours (0730-1030).
I had a great sleep and was on my way at 0730. The lake was beautiful in the morning light. I had 5.5 km gravel road and then onto a farm track to Lake Colerage. Then onto a track specific for Te Araroa. It was a nice little track. Much of it was in a natural state (polite way of saying overgrown) but very well marked. The track followed the lake for a while then climbed gradually above it to the top of the hill. It was then down the other side on a gravel road for 2 km with views over the Rakaia River. The final part was through pine trees and then Hart's Arboretum to the village where I plonked myself down on a picnic table in the shade to wait for my parents who were due around lunchtime.
The Rakaia River is an official hazard zone as it is too dangerous to cross. This means a difficult hitchhike or expensive shuttle. Luckily for me my parents had asked where they could meet me on the trail and I suggested here. I was looking forwards to seeing them, and for the food they were bringing - in that order!
While waiting a convoy of orange Champion tractors (Australiam brand) came past. They had driven from Christchurch to Horirata yesterday and now here - at 35 km/h. Funny what people love doing - yes I know I am hardly one to speak given my current adventure.
At 1300 they arrived and we headed to Methven Holiday Park for the night. We settled in and I was spoilt with fantastic food. It was nice to catch up and also have the dogs around. We went to the Blue Bar and had a great meal. Once back in my cabin I did some work in my pack reinforcing the bottom where I thought it might leak and fixing the hip pocket attachment where the elastic broke. We then discussed my resupply plan and it looks like I am finishing around 22 February which doesn't seem that far away. It is way earlier than my original planning.
I went to sleep enjoying a queen size bed.
I had a great sleep and was on my way at 0730. The lake was beautiful in the morning light. I had 5.5 km gravel road and then onto a farm track to Lake Colerage. Then onto a track specific for Te Araroa. It was a nice little track. Much of it was in a natural state (polite way of saying overgrown) but very well marked. The track followed the lake for a while then climbed gradually above it to the top of the hill. It was then down the other side on a gravel road for 2 km with views over the Rakaia River. The final part was through pine trees and then Hart's Arboretum to the village where I plonked myself down on a picnic table in the shade to wait for my parents who were due around lunchtime.
Not a bad view to start the morning
Noisy swans on the lake
Lake Georgina
Road walk
Lake Colerage
Natural Track
Impressed with safety ropes
Lake Colerage
Great scenery and nice track
Down through the pines
Read the sign - even I am not that short
The Rakaia River is an official hazard zone as it is too dangerous to cross. This means a difficult hitchhike or expensive shuttle. Luckily for me my parents had asked where they could meet me on the trail and I suggested here. I was looking forwards to seeing them, and for the food they were bringing - in that order!
While waiting a convoy of orange Champion tractors (Australiam brand) came past. They had driven from Christchurch to Horirata yesterday and now here - at 35 km/h. Funny what people love doing - yes I know I am hardly one to speak given my current adventure.
At 1300 they arrived and we headed to Methven Holiday Park for the night. We settled in and I was spoilt with fantastic food. It was nice to catch up and also have the dogs around. We went to the Blue Bar and had a great meal. Once back in my cabin I did some work in my pack reinforcing the bottom where I thought it might leak and fixing the hip pocket attachment where the elastic broke. We then discussed my resupply plan and it looks like I am finishing around 22 February which doesn't seem that far away. It is way earlier than my original planning.
I went to sleep enjoying a queen size bed.
Night 88
I think it sounds like your tummy is getting better. Looking forward to the rest of your journey. MikeG
ReplyDeleteHi Mike. My stomach is much better though still not 100% but not affecting me apart from lack of appatite.
DeleteWondered how you were going to get around the river 'hazard' - good ol' mum and dad. I'm sure they will also provide a much needed boost.
ReplyDeleteI think I put on a little weight with the fabulous food they cooked
DeleteHope it all goes well. I've been enjoying the blog and considering my own attempt.
ReplyDeleteI definitely recommend doing this. It is an amazing experience.
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