Te Araroa 10/02/26

Day 142, Telford campsite to Birchwood Bunkhouse (2907)

It started to rain just after I woke and continued on and off until the afternoon with some very strong blustery winds.

Following the River 

The campsite was nearly empty by the time I had breakfasted and packed and I saw nobody as I started off on the path.

A diversion over the hills

The trail today was through Mt Linton Station (Estate) and they are very fussy about walkers keeping to the path.

Back down and cross the river

The first half of the trail basically follows the Wairaki River, with a couple of fairly big, steep detours.

Mt Linton don't like trespassing 

It was more like heavy drizzle than rain for a while and the wind was behind me making a very pleasant start to the walk.

Another loop away from the river 

After climbing over the first detour and descending to cross the river the weather deteriorated and the wind turned into my face.

Well marked track

It was a bit of a slog over the top and back to the river as the wind tried to blow me off the track.

Keep following the River 

The river took a sharp turn south so the wind was behind me again, much more pleasant until the heavy rain started again and it felt very cold as well.

Wind and rain 

I just kept trudging on through agricultural land, sheep, cattle, turnips and grass until the rain stopped and the sun appeared at last.

Looking back to the hills

I actually had to stop and remove some clothes due to overheating. It wasn't too long after that I reached the road for the short walk to Birchwood Station where there is a cabin for TA walkers.

Shed at Birchwood Station 

Electricity, shower, toilet, gas cooker and a fire as well as twelve bunks. A full house tonight.

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Birchwood bunkhouse