DAYS 1-3 - 90 Mile Beach
Days 1-3 of my trek across the entire length of New Zealand
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624 Reasons Why
The Hike
TE ARAROA
"THE LONG PATHWAY"
Te Araroa, Mãori for "The Long Pathway", is the name attributed to a trail which spans the entire length of New Zealand from Cape Reinga in the North Island to Bluff in the South Island. The trail was officially opened in 2011, spans 3000km (1864 miles) and takes approximately 4 months to complete at a pace of 25km per day. Some describe it as one of the most difficult thru-hikes in the world.
The trail features a bit of everything. From sprawling beaches to rugged mountain passes; challenging single track to peaceful farm track; urban streets to endless roads; even 120km of canoeing. River crossings; knee-deep mud; adverse weather; dense forest; steep climbs; many obstacles which any hiker must be well prepared for. Every year, approximately 2,000 walkers take on the challenge in one continuous journey. I intend to join this select group of people that have far too much spare time.
CAPE REINGA
The start point
BLUFF
The end point
The red line indicates the approximate route I will be taking (although not exact)
Click on the markers along the trail to see just a few of the places I will be passing along the way!
To see a complete run down of the entire trail, visit the official Te Araroa website here!
Check out my most recent blog post!
MY PLAN
I am beginning to trek on 17th October 2024. My aim is to keep an average pace of 25km per day so I can try and finish the trek within 4 months. However, I am not an incredibly experienced hiker... far from it.
In fact, before I decided to undertake this huge task, I had never done a single multi-day hike. This may have you asking if I'm insane for deciding to take on a 3000km thru-hike involving mountains, river crossings, and dense forest, amongst other obstacles.
The short answer? Probably.
The long answer? I have absolutely no illusions of how challenging this task will be. Regardless, I am confident in my ability and am training extensively in the build up to New Zealand. Will my legs eventually want to give in? Yes. Will I want to give up at points? Probably.
Some days I may be able to walk 40km. Some days I may need to take a break. But I will push through it in the 4-month time frame, motivated by the end point drawing nearer and nearer every day and the prospect of raising funds for a charity that does incredible work (check out my targets).
I want you to follow me along the way!
Check out my blog!
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