Saturday, 30 December 2023

Day 9 - Puketī Forest to Stone Store Kerikeri

An earlier start to the day and away by 7.30.
A couple of k’s down the forestry road and a clear Te Araroa Trail sign points the way down through farmland. ‘Caution’ it says. ‘You are entering a working farm with electric fences and bulls.’ Let’s hope they like harmonica playing and imitation moans and bellows from Karl, just to see if he can get a response.
The trail weaves its way through scenic spots of scrub and bush, streams, waterfalls and boardwalks. Paradise ducks circle with their distinctive calls. One honking what sounds like “wait” and its partner a deep sounding “go!”
We begin the Kerikeri Riverwalk trail at Rainbow Falls. People a swinging in the lagoon. Karl washes his face in the shallows. I take my turn where he was, only to see a broad silvery tail curl away and move under the embankment. The swimmers mustn’t mind eels.
After cleaning and squirting boot disinfectant at a Kauri Dieback booth, we were awed by the beauty of this track alongside the river. Mature tōtara trees and lush grass paved the spaces between river and backyard properties.
As we emerged near the carpark opposite to the stone store a familiar voice called out. Sandie was waiting to welcome us. 
She also had pies :)
After a visit to the stone store and a few snapshots I placed my trustee walking stick companion in a nearby flax bush. Ready to continue the journey on or about the 5th of January.
Today we had covered a distance of 26k. A total trail length of about 225k in the last 9 days.
We have learnt a number of things that will help us with future sections. We have pride in the fact that we have walked it all, even though there had been a number of genuine offers to give us a lift.
We look forward to the continued journey of walking the length of New Zealand in the New Year and all the adventures yet to be.



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