a chorus of birds from both sides (of the world) now
![](https://blissfulhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_6395-1.jpg)
The chorus of birds on both the Te Araroa and the Pacific Crest Trail were glorious. Hear them for yourself!
TA audio narrative: the start
![Legs like stilts on the Ninety-Mile Beach in the far, far north of New Zealand.](https://blissfulhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_0937-2.jpg)
The start of the Te Araroa is a trial of sand, wind, rain and mud, but it’s worth it.
TA Day 6, Umaumokaroo to Apple Dam – 26 km
![There's nothing like putting wet and muddy shoes on in the morning.](https://blissfulhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_1227.jpg)
The mud continues until the bush abruptly ends at rolling hills headed toward more bush.