Day 33
I haven't had a lot of internet hence the delay. I was up early and left the hut beforev7am. The hut had been full last night. The first part of the day was on the Noel Sandford boardwalk up to Hiwikiwi. It was misty so no good views. I expected it to be all down hill but it was undulating and some steep uphill climbs. About mid way the mud became horrendous. My normal strategy is just to walk through the mud. This was well above my knees. Yes I know I have short legs but.... Of course I fell over and was nowva mud woman. The track then descended and was slippery. Thankfully it wasn't raining. I was so pleased to get to the carpark and I had a break. I had walked at less than 1km per hour but at least I was unhurt. I then walked the Pirongia west road to Pekanui road and down towards Lynne's who has a home stay. I had a rest at a lovely spot called Opa's corner. Lynne picked me up a couple of km from her place. I scrubbed my gaiters, boots, washed my clothes and showered. Lynne was off for the night so I had the house to my self. On the way down Hiwikiwi Alex passed me. He is an Aussie TA walker that I first met in Kaitaia and have met him at other places along the trail. He is walking every f!!! inch and I have been more realistic.
