The Pilgrimage

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And there we were 20 kilometers into the bush in our backcountry hut. We had just woken up from a night of wine-drinking and tale-telling with bunch of Dutch, Kiwi and English. Garth, a Kiwi dairy farmer, had given us lessons on how to birth a cow. Heald, a Dutch actuary, enlightened us with the immigration policies of Holland. And I never said a word about Bush.

We were packed and ready for the infamous Tongariro Crossing, a New Zealand Great Hike at 9000ft elevation that crosses Hot Thermal Pools spitting steam and bubbling sulphur, volcanic lakes and craters, not to mention the volcanos themselves. Clad in rain gear and thermal jackets, we made our way, when suddenly, we were passed by a couple wearing jeans, a polo sweater and carrying a purse. Huh? We looked back and there they were, hundreds of people descending upon nowhere land. I asked, "Um, so are there many more behind you." "Oh yeah, about 20 busloads." 1200 people make the famous crossing everyday. 50,000 a year. We tramped 10 kilometers just to get to where everybody else left their bus.

But it was still beautiful. And it's still New Zealand.

Next time...tales from the South Island.

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Comments

[majken]

actuaries and tourists
so what exactly is an actuary? and im upset to only see images of stupid nature on your blog - i was expecting to see your friends the happy high heel clad tourists captured as well. they deserve attention too damn it.

[jennifer hooson]

cheers
Sounds like you guys are a having an amazing trip. It was 5 years ago that J and I traveled through New Zealand. Thanks for sharing the adventure with us. I'm living vicariously through you two. safe travels. jmh

[LT Les]

Not in Iraq anymore
Ok you're in an amazing place but as far as I'm concerned I'm in a better place...back in the USA! Its wonderful to be back and I miss you both so much. I look forward to celebrating with you upon your return. Keep up the great blog. Les.