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Spat out in pieces by the torrid Tararuas

22/12/2015

5 Comments

 
The Tararuas have a sign at the beginning saying, do not tramp alone, this is a dangerous environment with extreme weather conditions and challenging terrain. Luckily, when I was trying not to succumb to the early stages of hypothermia at the first hut Stefan walked in smiling and made me a hot drink as I couldn't use my hands. In his indomitable Aussie way he said hey mate you look a bit rough. I have to be honest here, it was hands down totally irresponsible and  inexcusably arrogant of me to presume that I could handle the Tararuas on my own. Stefan and I eventually carried on to the next hut which had a stove and we met up with several other Ta through trampers. Five very long days later we were spat out, deflated of every breath of energy and motivation but buoyed by the very best sense of camaraderie and support that I have experienced to date on the TA. 

In the hut on the final night I looked around me at my fellow Tararua survivors, Katie with a very  pale, exhausted face after injuring her knee badly, myself still with shaking hands and a feeling of extreme nausea after an epic head first fall down a ridge, even the ever strong Stefan was quiet after days of gale winds and freezing rain. There was a tangible air of relief that we had all made it out.


After this I had to attempt to hitch to the Palmerston North MS Society Christmas lunch and after a rather long time getting myself together in the toilet I think I was reasonably normal. Kia Kaha and apologies for writing a rather more eviscerating account than normal.  I am staying with my TA friend Lois in Wellington to locate my lost confidence and many thanks to her and her lovely family.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        
5 Comments
Nessie Kirkbride
23/12/2015 23:08:46

A tough tramp indeed. Dont dispare tho. You need a rest, some good nosh, and a review of your incredible progress so far. You need a cool head in the mountains, especially when its difficult. Take care ma dear...we all send you love, and hace a great Christmas from M and B, AJ and wee L, and us lot MNJZ xxxx

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Vicki
24/12/2015 08:27:15

oh Rache it does sound like it was tough. Glad you made it through (sorry Bob wasn't there to accompany you - although perhaps I'm not after hearing this!!). I"m sure the South island will treat you better :) Have a much deserved break for Christmas. x

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Slag
25/12/2015 22:47:11

Big Rache - hope you are recovered and enjoying xmas break. I am also roughing it back in the NE and am empathizing with your pain. Wishing you festive frolics and best of luck with your travels in the New Year. Loving the blog.

S xx

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Nessie
26/12/2015 09:10:51

Happy Crimbo Rache! Here is dark, pissing wi rain, we're stuffed and bloutered and the non dyslexic family members are playing scrabble!

Go Ratchit...love frae The BallnChain xxxx

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Ruth
27/12/2015 09:24:54

HI Rachel, I am enjoying reading your blog It sounds like an epic journey so far. Congratulations on completing the North Island section. I hope you weather and conditions are kinder for you in the south. Ruth

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    Te Araroa 
    is New Zealand's trail. The 3000km route stretches from Cape Reinga in the North of New Zealand to Bluff in the South and was officially opened in December 2011.

    I am tramping the trail, North-South, starting in November 2015 and finishing in March/April 2016. I hope to raise awareness of the great work done by the Multiple Sclerosis Society and also to raise some funds for them.

    I will be carrying my own tent and supplies but I would very much appreciate any help that people could give me e.g.:
    • Food drops
    • Join me on sections on the tramp
    • Donate any food or equipment before I leave
    On the left you will find blog posts describing the trails, tribulations and triumphs along my journey.


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    My name is Rachel Kirkbride, I am 49 years old and live by the sea in Christchurch. Despite the fact that I have a very wonky eye that makes me seem like Calamity Jane at times, I love spending time in backcountry NZ.

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    (Position at 11th March 14:30 - BLUFF - That's it..0km to go!!!)
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    I'm currently en-route from Cape Reinga, the northern end of my (walking) journey. The end will be 3,000 km (1,860 miles) to the south. 
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