Holger and I woke up and did a little planning, the next 30k are on the highway and we had no interest in walking it, it’s dangerous and boring. Jayden is doing the 100k challenge, which means he’s hiking the last 100k without stopping for more than a break here and there.
We met Jayden for a late breakfast as he cane through Invercargrill and helped him charge up and supplied him with fresh bandages.
Then Holger and I hitched to Bluff where we waited for Jayden so we could all walk the final couple kilometers and finish together.
We checked into the hostel and then had a few beers at the bar before Jayden joined us. Then the three of us walked to the official end of the Te Araroa together.
3006 km officially, of course it’s not that simple because I skipped some of that, but I also added a lot of extra kilometers on. In total I have no idea how far I actually walked, and it’s not important to me.
I think it’ll take some time for the full impact of the trail to set in. For many years I’ve wanted to do a thru hike like, and I’m so happy I was able to do the Te Araroa. Maybe it’s partly because tomorrow I’m off to Stuart island to hike more, but it doesn’t really feel over.
I want to thank all the amazing people I’ve met on the trail, most of all my mini trail family Holger and Jayden, but also Malween, Robin, the fellowship (Pete, Katie, Sam, Yuji and Steady Eddie), Betty, Katie, Georgia, Gerben, Sanne, Flo, Sam and Laura, Laura, Amber, Will, Alex, Lucas, Audrey, Katja, Dominique and Tristan, James, Pierre, Oceane, Stefan, Richard, Hanni (the only other hiker who started the same day I did), Thomas, Lisa and Brad, Kate, Vicky, and all of the other people who helped make this the most amazing experience!
I’m especially thankful for my grandma Elsie who was part of my inspiration for taking this trip and will always inspire me to make the most of my life and work toward being a better, kinder and more loving person.
Congratulations Pete..WOW! Love your words of thanks to Grandma Elsie..
Pete Congratulations! We have loved following the blog of your hike through the beautiful NZ land. I am sure Elsie would have been as excited and impressed as we were by your adventure. We look forward to the picture show when you get back to the states. You did it!! Bruce
Fantastic job and awesome photos. Looks like you had a blast and collected a life time of memories.
CONGRATULATIONS, Peter!!!! What a lifetime achievement. And nice shout out to Els — she’s beyond proud of you! Patty and Don
Woohoo! Congrats!!!!!
Now I hope you don’t get stuck down there!
There are worse places to get stuck!
Congratulations Peter for completing the trail. What an accomplishment- nice shout out to grandma I am sure she is very proud of you!!!!!