I didn’t sleep well which is uncommon. I think the fact that I set an alarm was the cause. I don’t want to wake the others so I try to time my biological clock to wake me up right before the alarm. Didn’t work this time because I woke at midnight rather than 5 am. The rest of the night I drifted off and on between awake and dreaming.
When my alarm went I woke up. And quickly pack everything. Two decided to stay and the others were already packed. I’m afraid I packed rather loudly. So my sincere apology to Thomas and Till.
The estuary crossing was beautiful and still very doable 2 hours past low tide. I definitely recommend it, so don’t take the bypass.
After the estuary, there is the warm uphill to 300m. Then you drop down to the beach and walk to Bream Head.
The amount of road is limited and all parts of the day are stunning and very enjoyable. Even the steep climb to Bream’s head.
I was thinking of doing Bream head tomorrow, but when the other passed me, while I took a sunbathing break. I decided I do it.
It’s a tricky beginning and sadly I had to get down a different path to collect water. Should have taken a different route. The water was a bit weird but as it didn’t sag ‘no drinking water’, I took the risk (so far so good). Climbed back up to my backpack and continued.
So so so steep and so sweaty. But gorgeous views of what has passed and what is to come. I enjoyed the views with Tim and Ron. I continued a little ahead and saw Tim on my short break at the lion’s peak.
It was getting late and Neil (a lovely guy who let me camp last time) was 2.5km away but the free campsite was an additional 5km.
Thank the trail gods he was actually outside walking his dog. So when I grabbed my photos to put in the mailbox. I could hand them personally. So much better. And even better Tim, Ron, and I could camp AND got a beer!!! Neil and his wife are heroes!
After a lovely shower where I could even wash my hair. I ate a big delicious dinner and lay my head to rest. Now finishing today! And it was a great day!! Love you Te Araroa♥️
Zilla-in-the-wild 