We extracted ourselves from “The Farm” early and efficiently. Half an idea to stick around and have a coffee dissipated as I fought tooth and nail to get into the toilets. Several dogs were brawling. I snarled “Let’s go!” I didn’t need to insist.
Relieved, we began our road walk. Trying to enjoy something which isn’t always easy to like. As I have said, many times, road walking can be monotonous, dangerous, and is especially hard on the body. We were able to maintain both our spirits, and a good pace, to saunter into Helena Bay for lunch.
This was our first glimpse of a Bay of Islands beach. The sand was dewy black and glistening in the sunlight. Pebbles, rocks, seaweed and driftwood strewn along the shore. The water was a murky blue, the result of the recent heavy rains. We took our shoes off and walked to the shoreline. Cool, crisp water washed onto our toes and soothed our road worn feet. The pebbles crunched, crackled and rolled underfoot. The perfect beachside foot massage!
After lunch, a change of tact. Finally we left the road, and entered a grassy paddock with a small, well worn track. Ahhhh…instant tension seeping from the body. Relief at being off the hot, sticky tarmac.
The track quickly wound its way around to a hill and then we were into it! A long ridge walk. Up and down a slippery, muddy, grassy, tree rooty track. It felt adventurous and wild. Exactly what we are here to experience. It was tiring, but great fun. And certainly felt like an achievement to cap off the day.
There are only 8 hikers in the makeshift camp tonight. A treat, having been surrounded by so many people the previous night. Just a little bit more space for us all to breathe, listen to the birds, and enjoy nature. We were all in bed by 7.30pm! It had been a long, but thoroughly enjoyable day.
At least “The Farm” is in the rear view mirror now!