Transfering to Waimarino (National Park)

The bus to Hamilton leaves early, good oppertunity to watch the sunrise, once again. We didn’t take completely the same road as we came here. The bus had to pick up some passengers in places, we didn’t see the last time. In Hamilton, we had time for an early lunch, before we hoped on to the next bus to the National Park. Another 3 hours drive. Somewhere along the route, actually, in Taumarunui, we had the lunchbreak for this driver. Of course, everybody had to go out of the bus. The greens at the busstop provided a fine space to relax. 

Finally, in Waimarino, I had to walk to the lodge. Not far, with all the luggage, it was a nice workout. My room wasn’t ready yet. I found a great spot in the lounge, got wifi, settled in. After I brought my backpacks to my room, it was time for some groceries. This lodge provides a good kitchen. Help yourself! The only shop in this village is in the service station, down the mainroad. 

First learning point in the evening! There is almost no tracks, that starts directly in this village. For most of the tracks, you need a car of book a shuttle to reach the starting point. There are a few shuttles, on very specific times. No Uber, no taxi, no public tranport (exapt 1 bus a day and 2 trains a week). A bit of a challenge 🙂