Day 56 (43 kms)
Today would be our earliest start on the river, with plans for a 7:30am start. We still had time for breakfast and a coffee. The reason for the early start is the tide time. We have to paddle 24 kms to the point where the river is impacted by the ocean tide. Once there, we wait for the outgoing tide, which is us is scheduled for 2pm. And then we ride the tide out for another 19 kms to Whanganui. So, we do not want to miss that tide. And if we do, then it is another night of camping.
The paddling was good, we were good, and we made good time. The river was getting wider, the surrounding hills lower and the river banks more muddy. There was farmland everywhere. We are returning to civilization. We completed the 24 kms in two steady pushes, arriving at Hipango Park around noon. Perfect timing for an extended lunch and a couple of swims. As we waited for the tide, we could see it raise against the jetty. It probably went up close to 2 meters.
The final canoe paddle out was nice. The tide was helping and there was no afternoon head wind like the previous days. We got into Whanganui around 5:30pm. Soon after that our ride arrived. Tim was there to pick us up and take us back to Pukawa. But first we headed to McDonalds for a quick meal. We started the trip with McDonalds, seem only fitting to finish it with McDonalds.
The Whanganui River journey is complete. A journey I have wanted to do for years. It was a little tricky to organize. Glad it is done.
Next Steps
During the last few days I had two options I was considering. Either continue walking onto Palmerston North or head back to Havelock North and Caroline. I was very tempted to continue, as it is only 4 more days to Palmerston North, and that would be a logical place to finish this sub-section. But there is a tidal crossing one day out from Whanganui, and the timing just really sucks. So, instead it is back to the bach. The following day I caught a ride home with friends of friends. I still have 349 kms and probably 16 days walking to get to Wellington, and have two months remaining in New Zealand. I think this will happen.


