Day 20 - St Arnaud to Lakehead hut

As I opened my eyes to the first rays of light coming in my hotel window, I listened. The sound of rain pelting the large window with a heavy wind is all I heard. I hugged my bed sheets and wrestled with myself to get out of bed. I eventually packed up, put on my rain gear, checked out of my cozy hotel room - having my last hot shower - and made my way across the street to the St Arnaud general store to buy a few more goodies before starting my next section. Sour gummies, hand sanitizer, and chili powder.

I made the plan to walk just 10km to the first hut. I knew the rivers I needed to cross In few days would be swelled, so starting the trail slow would give them time to go down. Although it was raining, the scenery was magnificent. As uncomfortable it can be to walk in the rain, the beauty it brings always makes up for it. The light coming through the Overcast clouds onto the glossy rock, moss and forest floor constantly stops me in my tracks.

The trail was muddy, wet and the few streams I needed to cross were flooded as ever. My nice clean boots were not so clean by the time I reached Lakehead hut. It was only 2pm when I arrived, which gave me time to make coffee, read my book, reinforce some gear, do yoga and relax.

My buddy Niles - who I met on the back half of Richmond ranges - was also here. The first day I met him I found out it was his birthday and I gave him a few pieces of chocolate. Now he always shares his goodies with me whenever he brings them out. What a guy, eh. Most of the people I've met on Te Araroa have their own reasons for hiking the trail, but their aren't too many people Ive meet who have a similar desire to complete the trail as I do. Niles is different though. He left it all behind to walk Te Araroa - explaining to me one day how "life happened" - and I know completing the trail for him is more than just a test of strength, or even a personal accomplishment. It's finding out who you are, and growing as an individual. Expanding your soul through self growth. And somehow - for us - I can tell that reaching bluff will be one of the grandest moments of life.