Waiomu Coast To Kauri

A virgorous walk today took us from Waiomu west into the bush, across fords and creeks, up great flights of stairs and through regenerating forest, where more kauri stand mighty.

There's bittersweet in the air, knowing it's likely our last true walk in NZ...this time.

NZ silver fern

According to Māori legend, the silver fern once lived in the sea. It was asked to come and live in the forest to play a significant role in guiding the Māori people. Māori hunters and warriors used the silver underside of the fern leaves to find their way home. When bent over, the fronds would catch the moonlight and illuminate a path through the forest.

Some people we know detest getting their feet wet in shoes. This is deeper than it looks, a wave of water turning into a waterfall.

We don't have rubber boots on, only walking shoes. But what's a little wet on your last official walk in paradise?

If you read our last post on kauri and the dieback disease that kills them, you know the drill: clean off soil, disinfect shoes with the sprayer.

There are many bridges on today's trek, permitting access over the Waiomu river.

Here's another one on video. Give it a little volume and breathe a deep relaxed breath (click here to view vid if reading in email).

Enchanted forest.

We are high above the river now, walking on a shelf.

 Many steps up, seen from the top

Finally, the kauri loom.

These trees have a phenomenal energy.

The most southern-growing species, New Zealand kauri, is restricted to the sub-tropical forests in areas north of latitude 38° S (in Auckland, Northland and the Coromandel Peninsula), where it grows from sea level to 600 metres.

Kauri roots.

The stuff of dreams