21kms today that I should have knocked over no problem at all.
It took me ALL day!
Oh I suffered. (And because I wasn’t on my game I took a bit of a tumble, I will probably shelve my embarrassment and post a separate story about this, when I can stop laughing long enough to write it up!)
The first section was on road, uphill. Up and up via tar then a 4wd track before turning into graded gravel.
It was hot, I was thirsty and my head was pounding. Finally I headed down a steep spur and then it was a hike for a couple of k’s through a housing estate.
Although i grumbled a lot today, especially about the road walking, this was really pretty country. Rolling green pasture and great sea views (with a very welcome cobweb clearing wind!)
I set up for the night at the campground and then went in search of some fresh food and a resupply for the next couple of days.
Something I don’t think I have mentioned yet is that older Maori women stop and speak with me. It’s happened on the street a few times and twice in cafes.
I’m not sure why. They either see something in me that resonates on an energy or First Nations level or maybe, they just see this poor old duck, hobbling along all smelly and dirty and feel bloody sorry for me!
Either way, I will take it! How bloody lucky am I? I’ve had some great conversations and tonight was no exception. I holed up in a cafe for a cuppa and before too long, I had some new friends and got invited home for dinner. Chicken and salad and cuddles from Terry the cat. Thanks Matama. Peace.
Farmland, Waipu
Mangawhai Heads
Terry
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