Te Araroa Trail Kapiti Coast
Today I got up and out by 7.30am. I had a short road walk to Raumati South, before hitting the beaches of the beautiful Kapiti coast. It was beach most of the way to Paekakariki. I was occasionally forced back inland onto the road by the high tide.
The Kapiti coastline was very lovely, with views out to Kapiti Island. It was a lovely day, sunny and windy, and not too hot. Perfect hiking weather.
Queen Elizabeth Park
After a while I hit the Queen Elizabeth Park, a lovely area of natural dunes with great tracks throughout. I enjoyed lunch there before continuing on. Shortly after, I was walking up over a dune when I spotted 3 orca in the sea about 20m off shore. What a treat!! They hung around for some time before heading off up the coast.
Into Paekakariki
I arrived at Paekakariki Holiday Park having passed it initially, so I had to walk back 2kms grrrrr..
I met Amber and Mark who I’d first met in Ahipara then again in Paihia. It was great to have as little catch up!! We giggled about our buddy Bruce Hopkins having misplaced his father and brothers ashes that he was carrying… Most of Bruce’s other lost possessions had come back to him via Amber and Mark, so we wondered if it would happen this time!
During the course of the afternoon another 6 Te Araroa trail hikers arrived. I had a lazy afternoon, and treated my feet. My nasty skin condition is worsening.
I did a bit of admin and booked my Interislander ferry for the South island as spaces were selling out fast between Xmas and New year.
I also booked a nice little Airbnb for a couple of nights time as I get to the outskirts of Wellington, and then I booked a wonderful treat – a massage and pedicure for Xmas eve, which I’m very excited about!