Friday, 6 February 2026

Ta Araroa 06/02/26

Day 138, Kiwi Burn Hut to Te Anau (2831)

It rained quite hard last night and I was a bit worried about the river crossing but by the morning it had stopped and the clouds were clearing.

Morning from the hut 
I thought I would have a look at the river crossing but I actually missed the turning to the river and by the time I noticed I was halfway to the bridge so I kept going, no crossing problems but an extra hour and a half walking!
The Kiwi Burn swing bridge 
The route actually follows the river but the trail notes don't encourage anyone to use it so I followed the advice and walked the road.
The Mararoa River

Twenty nine kilometres of gravel road, hardly any traffic and a wide grassy verge that was easy to walk on.
Beef cattle

Sheep
The scenery changed to farming country with big fields of cattle, sheep and one of wheat. 

The long and not winding road

In both directions 
I did see a milk collection sign on one farm gate but didn't see any dairy cows.

Lots of sheep 
I had organised a shuttle to pick me up at the state highway for a ride into Te Anau for shopping and I camped at the holiday park there.
Leaving one set of hills behind 
Pauline, Etienne, Spike and Scotty are also camping there and the guy on reception had never heard of the TA.
Campsite 

A big load of food and a nice meal and I'm ready to go tomorrow. I just have to decide whether it will be a short or long day.




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