Week 26 - To the southernmost point of the North Island

On Monday, our travels finally continued in earnest.

After we had already driven to Napier on Sunday, we could start the morning super relaxed with a view of the ocean. After scrambled eggs for breakfast and a short walk, we continued our journey southward.

We decided to spend the night at a small campsite near the Tui Brewery. Unfortunately, due to the holiday, it was closed, and we couldn't take a tour. However, the campsite was beautifully located by a riverbank.

Since the forecast for the next day wasn't promising, we decided to spend it in the small town of Masterton. We took care of our usual errands and strolled through the town center. Franzi treated herself to a massage, and Julian had something to eat.

Masterton also had a really nice campsite to offer. Right by a small lake with many swans, geese, and ducks. The absolute highlight was: a free hot shower.

On Wednesday, there was a reunion planned as we agreed to meet Anne and Michelle at the Castlepoint Lighthouse.

The two girls have picked Kiwi buds with us over the past weeks, and we've spent a few game nights together. Michelle is 26 and has also given up her job as an educator and has been traveling the world since February. Anne is 19 and came to New Zealand after graduating high school to clarify her future studies.

When we arrived, we were of course very happy to see both of them again. The location itself was worth the trip. The small lighthouse is picturesque, perched on a rock in the sea, and the short hike along the coast to a viewpoint rewards you with a beautiful view. After a round of card games in our van, during which it was so windy outside that we were shaken and the bucket from the neighboring camper was blown away, we visited the small sea lion colony that lives around the lighthouse rock. Franzi managed to take several beautiful pictures of the animals.

On Thursday, it was finally time for a big hike again. Our goal was the Powell Hut in the Tararua Forest.

After a long break from hiking, we initially struggled and doubted whether we would make it to the hut. However, after reaching the first viewpoint sooner than expected and a friendly New Zealander described the further path in more detail (the next segment would first be significantly flatter before the big climb), we regained new courage and energy.

This helped us conquer the last steep section, and we reached the hut exhausted but satisfied. After a thorough break, we made our way back down.

Unfortunately, the huts here are not staffed. We miss Kaiserschmarrn and an elderflower spritzer after a steep ascent.

On Friday, the four of us set off towards the southern tip of the North Island. Our first activity was a short hike to the Putangirua Pinnacles. From the viewpoint, we had a good view of the striking rock formations. After a short descent and a small walk in the almost dried riverbed, we also reached the rock formations themselves.

Next, we went to the Cape Palliser Lighthouse. This lighthouse stands impressively on a high rock. The steps to climb up are quite challenging. However, the view is worth it. Since some sea lions live along the coast, we stopped at a good spot and observed countless of these animals. The many pups were especially adorable.

Our campsite for the night was right by the sea with a beautiful view over the coast and was ideally located for the sunset. Unfortunately, many clouds gathered, so the sunset wasn't as spectacular as hoped. Nevertheless, it was one of the most beautiful spots so far.

Next, we drove to the Kaitoke Regional Park. On the way, we had to cross a pass to get over the Remutaka Hill. At the top of the pass, we briefly stopped at the viewpoint.

From the campsite, we took a walk along the river to a Lord of the Rings film location. However, it wasn't really worth the visit. Without enthusiasm for the film series, there were just trees to see.

In the evening, we used the grill plates at the campsite and cooked sausages while preparing a large variety of different salads. We ended the lovely day with a round of card games.

On Sunday, we started the day leisurely and enjoyed our breakfast in the sun. Afterwards, we went to the Remutaka Rail Trail. Here, you can walk along a disused railway line. A lovely opportunity to explore the Pukaratahi Forest since it otherwise isn't accessible.

As a second point of the day, we continued on to the Porirua Harbour Lagoon. Here we took another walk along the lagoon and spent a relaxed afternoon at the lovely campsite. Thus the week came to a close.

The next week will be our last on New Zealand's North Island before we finally head to the South Island. We are looking forward to the upcoming days but are certainly even more excited about the South Island and what we will experience there.