Havelock to Pelorus Bridge – 21kms

Total 108kms

Our packs were feeling very heavy this morning when we set off. All that food. I had to put my tent on the outside of my pack to fit everything in. Luckily we were on the flat all day with about 14kms of road walking and then 7kms over farm land. All of that was alongside the Pelorus River and we are tenting it tonight at the Pelorus Bridge campsite. There were heaps of stiles to climb over while we were on the farm land and heavy packs made that a bit more difficult. Can throw you off balance a bit. There was a few showers along the way but mostly good hiking weather. Not too hot. When we arrived at the camp the guy at the DOC office said we are very lucky as they are fully booked out but a guy just cancelled his booking and told them to give it to the first Te Araroa walker who comes through today! It is the perfect spot too right next to the river. This river is popular with locals and tourists for swimming and kayaking etc. Lots of people here. There is a bit of reception and the DOC guy said he would charge our phones in his office so taking the opportunity to post this today.

This is where the Richmond Ranges start so we will be heading in there tomorrow following the river still and will be staying in the Middy Creek Hut.