Mike, Neil and Helen farewelled us from the toll gate. Neil had constructed a hearty breakfast of porridge and fruits earlier in the morning, so our energy levels were high. What a lovely connection we had formed in such a short time with these three.
Before long we heard the thrum of motorbike engines as we passed by Connors Creek. The hut must have been a busy one last night. Six bikies on trail terrain machines weaved past us on their way onwards through the valley.
Further on we met David. He was cycling and had lived in the Nelson area for most of his life. This road was one he enjoyed cycling. David was 70. He was animated and we could have talked for far longer than we did. He supplied us with a couple of muesli bars as he reckoned we would need them more than he would.
Further on a 4x4 vehicle slowed and stopped beside us. A man asked if we were the father and son walking NZ. He passed us a paper bag with oranges inside. They were from our lovely toll gate angels. What a boost for morning tea!
I thought of something to send back the toll gate. It was a small blue further from the top of my mana stick. Helen had admired it. So when a couple of blokes going north stopped for a chat I asked them if they wouldn’t mind delivering it for me. No problem.
After a segment through a narrow valley we were reaching an altitude of 1100 metres. We had passed through an entry point to Molesworth Station. Eventually we arrived in the late afternoon to Island Gully Hut. It was set beautifully overlooking the craggy mountains to the northwest.
We were the only ones at the hut for the first hour. Then a cyclist arrived. Her name was Lisa. She was from the East End of London and was touring NZ making her own trail linking journey. She mentioned that the feather we had sent back got delivered. Neil wanted to know where his one was. Such a funny fella.
It had been a day of feeling remote and small in such a vast landscape. Yet connected with so many people, all exploring the outdoors.
The potbelly stove kept the hut cosy all night. The mattress thickness was a little lean and the furry creature scuttling in the roof didn’t make for the easiest sleep.
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