Day 387: Mangaokewa to Pureora

Highlight:

Another long lunch today, a call to Trent, a book read and sleep. I awoke after an unknown amount of time, to the breeze in the trees. Weather was coming, it was either set up camp or head into the bush for a few more km. I put my shoes back on, topped my my water supply and made a start along the Timber Trail.

A light drizzle came down a few hours later. I jumped under a bush went it turned to rain. I pulled out the tent and attempted to line it up. That wasn't going to work. Rolled it up, rain cover now on my pack and walked on. Passed a few potential spots, I continued (to where, I was not sure). Was I being too ambitious? It really didn't matter where I stopped, these were all bonus km. I walked pass a flat ledge just above the track. It looks alright, a sign indicating cellphone reception and a picnic table. Could it get any better?? I continued. I rounded the next corner, a shelter. I hurried in just as the rain intensified. This will do. Dry clothes on, I tested out if I could lie on the seat (yes). Just as I got settled in to my chip bag, a bikepacker arrived. I offered up the potential tent spot a few meters back and we shared tales of wild camping, new jobs, water treatment and gear.

Challenge:

I was woken in the early hours by the sound of a possum. Knowing my food and all my kit was in the tent with me, I quickly returned to sleep until the bird song and dawn. A road walk awaited. Pass the spot I had turned around when trying to find Trent on day 111...Pass a sign meaning caution there are vehicles on this road. At the end of the road, having walked almost it's entirely (2533m in length), I had a picnic. 6 more km to Pureora, this time on seal with cars. I did get 3 firendly toots!

Learning:

So many Kākā as I started the Timber Trail.

Summary: