Te Araroa, Day 98

Starting late today, we hitch a ride with two German girls who have been traveling the country. X gets off at the Bealey Hotel, while I continue the ride 4 km further to the junction with Caro Lynn Road. I walk on that gravel road for a short distance. Then, there is a steep climb up through a forest. I'm glad when I emerge from the forest and get some views of "Lagoon Saddle".

Soon, it's forest again, alternating with river crossings, walking on rocky river beds, and navigating through forest terrain with ups and downs. X waits for me at the junction to Hamilton Hut. We decide to walk another 10 km before seeking a campsite. However, after 4 km, rain starts, and it seems heavy rain is approaching. So, we set up the tent earlier than planned, in the rain. The moment the tent is set up, the rain stops. Although heavy rain arrives later in the night and continues until morning.