Day 390: Taumarunui

Highlight:

River swim & (river) washing was today's highlight. I got to Taumarunui, and seeked out town food. I left the one open cafe disappointed. It was such a busy place, had loud background noise, no bathroom and ineffective mask use by staff. I talked to Trent briefly, informing him that I had just spoken to Taumarunui Canone Hire and there were other TA's on the river on the 6th. That would mean I had 5 days to traverse the distance Trent had taken 6 do so (with a couple of short). Do able.

After finding some public toilets, I headed down to the Whanganui river for a cool off and sock rinse. I spend the afternoon in the shade, while my tent and clothes dried. I packed up around 3pm to do the food shop and the last 3km for the day.

Challenge:

I arrived at Whanganui Canone Hire, and checked in. Karen now reporting the other TA's were booked for the 5th. Ahhh, I had heard the 6th on the phone, which was achievable, the 5th was harder.

Can you get to Whakahoro by the 5th?

She also reported it takes 5 days down the river. Wow, is that right? I asked. She showed me the great walk times... and let me know what DOC campsites my boat mates had booked in at.

Do you have enough food?

Will the food work? I could pack a little more of what I had on me for the river and top up when I go through National park. There will be a few cafe's between here and there so I shouldn't be in deficient.

I was feeling... unsettled, my plan I had in town was now looking so different. I had mapped out the track now (160km), and worked out I needed to do 4x 40km days. Should I start walking tonight and knock some of the km out of the way. No Emma just settle, you have a bed for the night and the safety briefing in the morning.

I had bush shower, the first recognized wash of the trip. The califont meant hot water! I rang Trent, looking for reinforcement. I don't think he had grasped the lack of days yet. I told him (and myself) all I can do is try. I had the morning of the 5th until 10am if needed too. If I don't get there in time, then I'll walk River road. Hitch hiking or taking an alternative route didn't cross my mind a this point.

Learning:

On the walk out of Taumarunui with the luxuary of cellphone reception I open Spotify and started a new podcast. Coning the Con. An interesting encountor about a Queenstown women getting getting con'ed and then taking back her power (and money).

Summary: