Day 9 to 11
The walk to Kerikeri was very pleasant, but maybe a little harder than anticipated. Or maybe it was harder because the previous day was a big day. The last 5 km stretch into Kerikeri was especially nice, along the river bank with native bush and the occasional waterfall. The river was running due to the recent rain.
My fellow walkers recommended a hostel, which is my least preferred sleeping option, as it means sharing a room with others. But the Hone Heke Flashpackers was really nice, and I had a room to myself. Big score for me. I had lots of chores to do. Tried unsuccessfully to find a new hiking shirt, so bought needle and thread to repair the holes in my current one. Did laundry, did shopping, dried my wet tent, found a coffee, found a milkshake, the usual.
During the night I discovered that my iPhone no longer charges, because of a damaged lightning port. That is a problem. Therefore, the first chore when I woke up was to find a shop and buy a different style of charging cable, the magnetic type. As the shops only open at 9 am, I treated myself to a full kiwi breakfast. Note to self; it is not great to walk on such a large breakfast.
The rain started at 10 am and bucketted down until 1:30 pm. The trail notes talked about a 14 km day, but I wanted to see some more waterfalls, and decided to walk along the river bank out of town. So glad I did this. The only downside, with the shopping and where I rejoined the trail, the total walking distance was 32 kms instead of the advertised 14 kms. Regardless, arrived into Piahia with beautiful weather, and that was rewarding. Tomorrow is a zero day.
Took a total chill day on the zero. Did a little planning for the next coming 4 nights. Sketching out places to stay and places that sell food. There are some logistic challenges with the Te Araroa Trail, giving the brain some exercise as well. It is not possible to pull off the trail and just camp, at least not here on this part of the North Isalnd.
Ten days in and really enjoying the trail and interactions with other walkers. Body is doing ok, which is an obvious bonus. Walking alone is nice, as is spending time in communal spaces with others. May the good weather continue.
