NEW ZEALAND
Te Araroa
Te Araroa means “the long pathway” in Maori. Completed in 2011, it’s a 3,000-kilometer continuous trail extending from Cape Reinga on the North Island to Bluff on the South.
Te Araroa, New Zealand – Oct-Mar, 2018—19
Did I possess the grit, fortitude, determination, and the sheer pig-headedness to stick with a walk of 1,864 miles?
TA audio narrative: who is this “blissful hiker” you speak of?
I love being a DJ, but wanted to experience a thru-hike before it was too late.
TA audio narrative: Does orange make my butt look fat?
It’s said that people fear public speaking – and looking ridiculous – more than death.
TA audio narrative: no outcomes backpacking
If you arrive at a final destination, it’s a sign that you’ve set your sights too low.
TA video: ready or not…
The Blissful Hiker Alison Young packs ultralight gear to ready to go to New Zealand.
TA…and away she goes!
In late October, I said goodbye and set off for the other side of the world.
TA Day 1, Cape Reinga to Twilight Camp – 13 km
After 3 flights, and 36 hours of travel, I start the hike, falling asleep to crashing waves at Twilight.
TA Day 2, Twilight Camp to Maunganui Bluff – 28 km
Following the stairs down from Scott Point, the Blissful Hiker begins the Ninety Mile Beach.
TA Day 3, Maunganui Bluff to Utea Park – 30 km
Awakened by wild horses, the Blissful Hiker heads back onto the long, lonely Ninety Mile Beach.
TA audio narrative: suddenly D-day
After 36 hours of travel, I arrived in New Zealand and started hiking right away.
TA Day 4, Utea Park to Ahipara, 32 km
On the final day walking the Ninety Mile Beach, the wind changes and brings blow carts my way.
TA Day 5, Takahue Saddle Road to below Umaumakaroo – 16 km
Tuis, bell birds, roots and mud – the deepest I’ve seen in my entire life – in the Raetea Forest.
