Climbing over 2 alpine passes in 2 consecutive days was no mean feat! But perseverance paid off and as we hobbled into camp at the end of day 2, to the sound of cheers from our much younger TA companions, we felt immensely proud of our achievements.
2023 is here and no better way to celebrate than to climb a mountain.
This will be our biggest challenge yet...
18 days
240km
3 passes and a long mountain range.
It will be tough physically, but with that comes mental endurance. We are challenging ourselves in support of those who struggle with their mental health.
We say this to them as we will say to ourselves when the going gets tough..
Don't lose hope
Be strong
Keep moving forward
Be proud of your accomplishments and remember your only limit is your mind
The hopeful angels have needed to take a wee break from journeying the Te Araroa while we relocate to the beautiful Canterbury and settle in to new jobs, schools and home.
But we're ready to explore our new niche and raise some more funds for our two chosen charities - bald angels and Mental health foundation.
Our latest section - 10km Lake Pukaki to Twizel through a winter wonderland. Mental health doesn't take a day off because it's freezing 🥶
We have been stuck in Auckland for over 3 months now. So no large section tramps, but we have been thankful to be able to get out for a short walk each weekend. One of our favourites was the Dome valley where we managed to get caked in mud! We have always loved getting out of the city, but as there has been no choice, we have been able to appreciate the small things and the hidden gems the city has to offer. Fortunately the border opens soon, as we are almost out of Te Araroa to hike!
Our walk along 90 mile beach was one of our most challenging yet - both mentally and physically.
The scenery was the same for many kilometers, the beach incline and soft sand led to painful blisters and the final day brought buffeting wind and torrential rain. But none of this dampened our spirits. The welcome sight of Ahipara was like the light at the end of a very long tunnel.
So we have knocked off another 100km - we have now walked 14% of the Te Araroa Trail and are at 12% of our fundraising goal. Almost on target.
Thank you so much to those who have donated. Your support means so much to us and will help vulnerable youth who are struggling through mental illness to find their light at the end of their tunnel.
