Kia ora from Akaroa, NZ, where we just did a 4 day backpacking trek along the rugged coast of NZ with our Kiwi friends John and Jenny. It's quite an undertaking at our age! The route is privately owned by 8 farmers with well maintained paths, big signs, 4 lovely huts with flush toilets, kitchens and full beds (my style of camping!), and stunning coastline views. We've made it!
Day 1: Shuttled to first lodge on the coast off Akaroa with tropical flowers bloomi8ng and a clear, star studded nighttime sky (makes going to the outisde toilet so much easier!). Slept in soft beds in room for 4, made our breakfast and started hiking at 9 to Flea Bay. Our packs were delivered by truck to the next stop (Yay!). It was a long six hour hike up and down through jungle like river beds with singing birds and past sheep pastures (Ba-ah!). Slept in bunk beds (Chuck thought it was a tsunamii every time I rolled over in the bottom!). That night a farmer gave us a tour of the local bird colony of NZ Little Penguins, rescued by this couple and nursed to health - so sweet! They were a bit ugly though, since they were molting!
Day 2: Began the day sea kayaking with friends on a perfect sunny day. Saw fur seals, yellow eyed penguins and a pod of rare Hector dolphins swam next to our boat. Paradise! Then came the hard hike to Stone Bay carrying heavy backpacks in blazing sun on exposed hills. Even the sheep complained! Arrived at Stony Bay at 5 to our little Hobbit Hut village, complete with round doors, sinks with ferns growing, a hot shower built into stones, and cute comfy huts. Celebrated with fresh steaks, vegies, and wine. Survivors all!
Day 3: Rained today in Otanorito but the hike was easier in cool, cloudy weather with hikers from NZ, Britain, and the US.
Celebrated with a group meal of sausage, vegies and....more wine! This hut had a double bed! Yay! Told stories and laughed until quite late. Fun group!
Day 4: Hiked out in shady forests for 4 hours. Nice and cool! Arrived in lovely Akaroa town, seeing the sailboats and hotels below. We did it! Six of us celebrated with fish and chips and beer. Survuvors All!
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