Paihia to Whangerei
Day 1112/7/16 - 19:45
Got my bounce box today and sent it to Wanganui. I also got a box from home! New shoes, snickers candy bar and leukotape were a wonderful sight. These shoes worked much better on the gravel roads (thicker soles). I made it into Russell forest this evening and I'm Camping underneath a DOC shelter. It's supposed to rain and I want to keep my tent dry. It was a great walk down the Papakauri stream today. My feet were almost numb by time I was done, but it was very scenic. Still not working up much of an appetite unless I'm in town. Not sure what's going on.
Day 12
12/8/16 - 20:56
Walked in the rain to Teal Bay today. I stopped at the beach here underneath a tree to eat lunch. I was napping when a black poodle woke me. I nice man named Bill was walking his dog and stopped to chat. Bill offered up his yard, outside shower and a electrical plug for recharging my phone and I readily accepted. The hot shower was wonderful after walking in the cold rain. He had me inside for a cup of tea and conversation. His wife, Katherine, was also very nice. He even offered to give me a lift in the morning to the next trail head! Great folks!
Didn't cover much ground today, but being able talk with a local Kiwi and share stories and thoughts made up for lost distance. I'm really enjoying meeting all of the folks along the trail.
Day 13
12/9/16 - 20:11
Great walk today! I covered a good distance and saw some beautiful country. I never fancied myself as a beach or coastal person, but the Whananaki Coastal Walkway may have changed my mind. Gorgeous! Few people, few houses, grazing cattle, soothing waves and clear skies truly made today a day to remember. I stopped for a piece of fried snapper at the Matapouri store. It put the perfect topping on a great day. Saw a brood of California quail with two adults today. Reminded me of the little lesser chicks we used to catch.
Supposed to rain again tomorrow. I kind of enjoy walking in the rain.
Day 14
12/10/16 - 19:46
Walking through the small communities along the coast the past few days has been a great delight. Ngunguru was a lovely little place and Pataua, my campsite tonight, may be my favorite place on my journey so far. Reminds me of the abundant small towns in Kansas. I watched some surfers and the sunset this evening for about an hour. Talked with a local family cooking smores on the beach. I couldn't be in a better place.
Day 15
12/11/16 - 19:22
Struggles appeared again today. The estuary crossing was difficult (I didn't wait for low tide like I should have). The wind was a nuisance, Ocean beach was a pain and I couldn't find a boat ride across the bay to Marsden point. I even tried to get a refreshing beer at a beach side bar, but they wouldn't serve me because I'm not a member. I'm tired and in need of a shower. I couldn't find a legal campsite this evening so I'm snugged up behind a little church. I doubt I'm hurting anything, but I probably shouldn't have camped here. Tomorrow I will hitch to Whangarei to use the library, resupply, and possibly stay in the YHA hostel. My clothes are really starting to stink.
