Day 665: Kaitaia

Highlight:

On the bus. Te  Araroa walkers identifyable by their clean packs and new shoes. Me a rougher, (hopfully not to) smelly version.
This maybe not obvious, I tell my story to the two across from me. Mother and daughter from South Africa, set to start once they get to Cape Reinga.

Challenge:

The North Island Te Araroa provides lots of options, and hence a pick your path adventure. How far to walk, where to stay has generally evolved for me over the course of the day, and reassessed when at landmarks.
After walking the 3km south, then north on State Highway 1 to connect where I left the trail (remember Trent and I got picked up just shy of Kaitaia, we took the ride, it was midnight and Trents ankle was troubling).
Back in Kaitaia, I literally was faced with the cross roads of staying in Kaitaia or Ahipara. Staying in Kaitaia would involve walking up town to the backpackers, a choice of dinner options and staying dry. I thought of those fresh TA, probably persistent to get to Cape Reinga and then Twilight camp. It was only 4pm.
I ran Ahipara holiday park a second time, they answered, had a bunk available and would be around for a late check in. I took the turn to the west.

Once on this tack, it was soon comfirmed the weather was moving in, maybe I should have chosen the other option.

3 rides were often and decided on the notorious (no verge, steep drains, well trafficed) Kaitaia-Awaroa Road.

Learning:

Wendy dropped me off at the Whangarei town basin at 8am, on her way to work. The bus was due at 10:20, so café breakfast, 4 day resupply at Pack N Save, and I still had 15 mins to spare. I popped into the Art Museum, wondering if I needed to bus tag for my bag. This was a difficult space to what it was last time I was here, the I-site was no longer. I took the invitate to browse the gallery, and walked into a earthy smelling room. Full of clay creations and sprouts. I spoke briefly with the team member in there, watering. She shared the expedition was about creating, and exploring vaule (perceived or usefulness).
What gives you the most value? The cup you use everyday or the high tea set you pull out once a year...

Summary: