TA audio narrative: in the South Island
When talking about the islands of New Zealand, you say “in” the island, not “on” because they’re huge.
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Attention creative thinkers! Help me name the blissful hiker avatar. Win lots of accolades, maybe some fame, and definitely good karma! Post your best ideas in comments. Deadline: day after tax day
TA homeward bound
Of course, there had to be just one more tramp before leaving.
TA Stewart Island
I can’t think of any better representation of beauty than someone who is unafraid to be herself. —Emma Stone The main goal of this five-month leave from work and life has been ticked off the list and there are a few days left before Richard arrives, so I fill the time by leaping over to […]
TA Day 127, Invercargill to Bluff, 34 km
It’s mostly a road walk to the end of the trail, but Ian surprises me and launches me up on the ending sign.
TA Day 126, Riverton to Invercargill, 33 km
Again stars were working overtime, but in the grassy dip set aside for Te Araroa tents, dew built up on the alicoop and I felt a chill overnight. Packing up is always interesting with a sopping wet tent so I retreat to the game room/kitchen for tea until the sun makes an appearance. The Swedish […]
TA Day 125, Colac Bay to Riverton, 24 km
Stars are shining when I poke my head out of the alicoop, though clouds crowd in as I stroll to the beach to wake up. Initially I intended to wait until the tide was going out, but once I got on the beach, I change my mind, risking getting pushed onto soft sand but figuring […]
TA Day 124, Martin’s Hut to Colac Bay, 24 km
Ian and Wendy are up first, speaking in whispers, their lights aiming down. My head is mere inches from the roof pitch – and Antonie’s head. Last night, I clipped bags to a beam so they wouldn’t clatter to the floor when I turn on my side. Antoine and I eventually jump down. He cooks […]
TA Day 123, Merivale Road to Martin’s Hut, 29 km
I can see stars when I wake up, but fall is settling in and it’s pitch dark now. I organize and pack, turning the little space heater on full and sending Richard a packing list while eating some Puhoi yogurt. It’s time to go once the sky lightens and I say goodbye to this sweet, […]
TA Day 122, ‘zero day’ Otautau
I only have a few things to share from this very lazy day of reading, writing, editing, eating and giggling at the Railway Hotel, my odd – but ideal – respite. Jenel posts this ad on social and it resonates because I am called ‘crazy’ today by the cute checkout girl at the Four Square […]
