My Favourite Walk
Taking time on the Tongariro By Dorothy Johnstone
F
or those who are not confident in choosing to attempt the challenging Tongariro Aline Crossing, an alternative is to take your time and enjoy part of what is on offer, which can be equally stimulating and rewarding. Therefore, on 5 January 2021, while my fit, long legged son-in-law strided out the full track (yet again for the fifth time) accompanied by his two brothers and sister-in-law (the first time for them), my daughter and I navigated the commencement of the track at a much more leisurely pace. To be sure, my light-weight walking stick, which unfolds into a chair, ideally serves the purpose well to sit upon while resting. In fact it drew plenty of attention and was envied by numerous young people as they passed me by while trudging it out. Sadly, I noted (for whatever reason) many by-passed the short Above lef t: Walking buddies daughter and mother with Mt Ngauruhoe in the background. Below left: Possibly the prettiest toilet in New Zealand.. Below middle: Colourful rocks along the way. Below right: Flowers along the way add colour.
26 Walking New Zealand, issue no 281 - 2021
www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
