We started our day a bit layer than usual, 7.30am, as we had a short day out to the end of the Motatapu Track. Then it was to be a 2.5km walk to Glendhu Bay motor camp followed by a 16km walk to Wanaka the next day.
I remembered this as really easy piece of gentle downhill track through peaceful beech forests. I had nearly run it last time thinking it was one of the easiest parts of TA.
But they had changed the track dramatically! There was steep drop offs, tricky bits, dodgy bits and I became more uneasy about the whole damn walk.
So I discussed my concerns with Kay. I felt good talking it out aloud and Kay as very supportive and understanding, agreeing that there are many other options for me.
My 2019-20 Te Araroa was a significant feat for me; a milestone in my life; something I had planned for many years. I cannot repeat the magic of the trail, or being blissfully unaware of what was going to happen next.
So by the time we had accepted a hitch into Wanaka I had decided to look at other options. I need to live in a decent body for a few more years yet. I have nothing to prove to myself oy anyone else.
Friends, Pip and Jane are on a SOBO and will be in Tekapo on Monday so I will hitch there and cycle a section with them.
Kay and I gave enjoyed our time in Wanaka, staying in our beds until 11am and catching up on news around the country and world. Neither of us can get to Western Australia to visit our kids and grandchildren and the whole country has gone into Red Traffic Light.
So watch has this space.
Adventure doesn’t only mean tramping. The best job I ever had was planting tomatoes and there is lots of that kind of work going down here. There are many vacancies in hospitality although I am not sure how hospitable I can be these days. I have people to visit and people to meet.