Day 32 Hard to believe it’s been so long

In Taumarunui. The te araroa track kind of falls apart here. After discussion with the outdoor store people and info centre I have opted for the river option, skipping the tangariro crossing (which I have done before) and a lot of east-west traversing. Instead I’ll be floating downstream for 5 days and then another 3 with Sarah to Whanganui. Will be out of touch until I’m off the water. Travel companions for this leg include 4 americans who are working in Antarctica, a few Germans and 3 English. Looks like fun!