My precious and I having our last cup of coffee together. My precious is still trying to talk me out of destroying it, but I’m staying strong and determined. Mordor bound, I mean Bluff bound.
It is done. 87 days 21 hours 28 min 56 sec. A feeling of both relief and joy flooded through me as I thought about all the planning, setbacks, happiness and disappointments in finishing Te Araroa. I’ve never had to call upon such deep determination and resolve in all my life, especially after my injury. This would not have been possible without God’s grace, the wonderful help of trail angels, and above all my awesome friend Dan.
Massive thanks to Bedrock Sandals and to Dan for believing in my dream, and to Huckberry, Gossamer Gear, NEMO Equipment and Yama Mountain Gear for equipping us with the best gear. Finally, a massive thanks to every one of you for your kind words, encouragement and support, especially during my dark times. Much gratitude. Thank you!
Friendships were being forged, around a stove, by a campfire or a wood fire in the hut, after chowing instant noodles, cookies and some cheap red wine on lucky days. So many friendships made along the way, but I’ll treasure Dan’s the most. This finish line picture says it all. It was published in the Southland Times, and it’s my favourite.
It is done! I have run out of earth to tread. Literally. I’m at the very end of the South Island. I guess I’ll go home now!
For the curious minds: the precious is gone. I narrowly escaped with it, just like Frodo saying, “The Ring is mine.” Took one good look at it. It reminded me of the very first day of my Te Araroa journey, when I picked it up, and here I am at the very end of the island after a 3,000 km journey through Middle-earth, living like a hobbit. My Precious, my sweet burden, is gone, sitting under the ocean, where it belongs.
I wish the Eagles had shown up to carry me home!