Wow, the start of the north island,
I know I have written about friends on here before, but I found myself again astounded by what good friends are capable of doing. One such friend collected me from the Wellington ferry terminal yesterday, took me on a scenic drive around and invited me to dinner. Even more generously, this friend allowed me to use his car for the duration of my stay… at his place, while I finish the Wellington TA sections. I am so incredibly grateful and I don’t know how to thank him. Thanks Dean, I am never going to be able to repay you.
And so, this morning, another “start” on the Te Araroa trail. The southernmost point on the north island part of the trail. I needed to take the train and a bus to get here, but I made it and a “sea” of emotions flooded over me as I stepped onto the beach. I was back… back on the TA and all my anxiety and doubts washed away instantly. So familiar, so excited and so privileged to be back on the trail.
Enough of all that, I started in “Island Bay”, but soon I was climbing up, away from the ocean onto Mt Albert.
From here, past Wellington Zoo, down and up (<-In true Te Araroa style) into Mt Victoria Reserve. It was a great day in the capital with fine and characteristic windy weather. I made a quick stop to admire the view, have lunch and check in on my feet before reaching the parade and Oriental Bay.
A stint next to the ocean and then onto the busy streets of Wellington city itself. I could clearly sense that I am not fitting in between the posh shops and (mostly) well dressed people on the streets, but I admired the view, took in the vibe and checked my phone regularly… to ensure I didn’t get lost.
After 3pm, and I made it to the “Beehive” Parliament Buildings. This was enough for today, feeling good, switching off my tracker and taking the train back to my accommodation. Tomorrow I will continue from here…
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41.1606 – 174.8665
22 November 2024
FP-316