Colourful sky

3 May
Waitomo to 840 Trail Angels
KM 840.5
Distance: 30.3km
Elevation: ascent 1055m; descent 819m
Steps: 47,800
Time: 7:00am - 4:05pm

Early starts mean seeing stunning sunrises! 

Thanks to electricity (specifically indoor lighting and a jug/kettle instead of a headlamp and gas camping stove) breakfast was quickly prepared and consumed so we were packed and on the road more quickly than usual. With a 30+km walk of unknown difficulty in our future we wanted to make sure we got to our trail angel accommodation before dark.

Nine kilometres of road and mountain bike trail enabled us to make short work of the morning, the steady grade also made the 200m elevation gain easy. With that out of the way we entered native and exotic forests which kept the 23 C ambient temperature bearable. 

Once out of the forest we were on the top of hills with nearly 360 degree views of the north island! We even saw the central plateau, Tongariro National Park, reminiscing how we had just been there what seems like a few days ago.

Our only complaint today was the middle few kilometres. After we exited a native forest section we entered a recently planted pine forest, established as a carbon farming operation. The track was directed along the fenceline and showed no mercy when it came to the hills. Just up and over, again and again for nearly an hour.

We came across two rural airfields. We don't know what they might be used for but presumably aerial topdressing/fertilising is one. Oh, and we literally came across the airfields - the trail notes are very explicit about needing to wait for permission to cross if the airfields are in use - High Danger Area!! Neither airfield was in use today, so it was easy crossing.

Today's track took us in a north west direction, so as we reached the end of the day we were treated to the sun dropping toward Kawhia Harbour and beyond that the Tasman Sea.

Our accommodation tonight is with Casey and John. They took over hosting TA walkers after a neighbour was unable to continue. They coordinate with other neighbours to ensure people are looked after. We've had a hot shower, we have power points to charge our devices, there's a free beer in the fridge, and Casey has provided a salad for our dinner! 
Our fellow walkers from last night, Aud and Pol, are also here with us enjoying dinner and the hospitality.

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