Somehow the time slips away too quickly when I'm in town, so this will be brief. I finished my third section two days ago going through Nelson Lakes National Park. 113 km in 6 days. Was my favorite part of New Zealand so far with amazing scenery and a fun, social hiking group. Took my time with the area due to nervousness about the big pass, but it was easy after Richmond. One steep climb up a tall scree slope and then side hill and down climbing on solid rock. Waaay better than trying to surf scree down.
The weather was pretty much perfect. Brought more food and could actually afford to make double dinners some nights! Extra servings of instant mashed potatoes and dehydrated peas do a lot for morale, it turns out...
Too many things to mention. Clumsy creek crossings, the clearest lake in the world, snuggling into huts in stormy weather, perfect bluebird day over the pass, miles and miles of river valley hiking, all the bloody Germans, hiking friends I won't forget anytime soon. Oh, and Afghans. The best chocolate cookie I've ever come across...
Four of us popped out of the woods and came up to Hanmer Springs for a rest day. Hot springs, comfy backpacker accommodation, beer, greasy food, the works. Two of the guys are hitting trail again today, but Patrick from Alaska and I are going to hitch to Arthurs Pass. I told him about Cave Stream that I hiked last time I was in country, and we're going to try and hit it up before some wet weather moves in. Abandoning the Te Araroa for now, but wanting to make it south with plenty of time to hike down there. Should have time to come back up and do the next TA section before I fly home at the end of February.
One month left! Cheers y'all.
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