10/3/22, Day 98, 30km, Total 2581km
Elevation Gain: 651, Loss: 660m
A varied day with two estuary crossings plus a boat ride.
Left early (at 7) to catch the low tide. Magic sunrise as I walked the first 4km of beach then up and over Kauri mountain. Not many kauris there but a really good track. Then down to the Taiharuru River crossing. Tide was perfect for this crossing and water was only up to my thighs. A long walk around the mudflats after the crossing until I hit the road. I disturbed 3 stingrays while walking in the shallows. That was a big fright each time.
Then through Pataua, another small holiday village. I met Paula near here. She is a SOBO who started the TA on the Timber Trail in November. She has done all the South Island and looked really fit.
Next was the Horahora River. By then the tide was pretty much in so the water was really deep – past my nipples. I’m getting the hang of these crossings.
Another hour and I was at James’s place and without mucking around he had me in the boat and across to Ngunguru. Again a wonderful free service for TA hikers.
Straight to the café to work on my hydration and nutrition.
Stayed with another Trail Angel, Donna. These people continue to blow me away with their kindness. Donna is a really interesting person and has walked quite a lot of the Northland section of the Trail. Thanks Donna for the hospitality.
Tomorrow could be a long day to Helena Bay.
