Day 38 - Turangi to Ketetahi Rd (start of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing)

 9 Feb

It was decided that we would return to Turangi and walk the segment of 24km out to the Ketetahi Rd (start of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing). We firstly followed the cycle trail that runs parallel to SH1. It was nice to be in the shade of the bush and on a dedicated trail.

At Rangipo we turned inland onto state highway 46. 

Lake Rotoaira showed moments of glistening brilliance just above the roadside broom. Because we left late in the day (3pm) we were aiming to cover the 24k in about 5 hours. Therefore 5k per hour speed.

With 3k to go a familiar car came along the highway. There was a special delivery of BK onion rings out the side window. Thanks Sandie our mobile trail angel.

Mt Tongariro was all in shadow with a couple of puffs of white steam venting from its side. Up Ketetahi Rd we strode. Karl even put on a sprint to try and reach the parking bays before his mum.

The plan now was to head home to Morrinsville. We could attend nephew Mattie’s 21st on Saturday, get some things done around home, some rest included and then return down this way Sunday evening for a Monday restart. 

Here I thought we wouldn’t be returning home for some time! What a boomerang treat!

Departing Turangi. Pihanga in the background.

On the trail that passes the Tongariro Trout Centre.

Wide forest berm beside SH. 1

SH47 - a quiet road walk.

Lake Rotoaira in the distance.

Made it by 8pm to Ketetahi Rd carpark.