Jenna leaves today to head to Christchurch. Before the weather turns, we quickly pack up the tent. By the time our stuff is in the car the rain starts. The kitchen only has outdoor seating. We decide to head to a cafe for food and coffee. Breakfast is really good, much better than yesterday’s. Jenna needs the post shop to get a parcel sent to herself so her bags are not too heavy. Jenna drops us off at Kelvin and Paula’s house and we say our goodbyes. It will be strange not travelling with her anymore.

Rowan and I spend the rest of the day doing jobs. We get clothes washed and clean up a few things. The kids are happy to have us here, especially Lucy who adores Rowan. An easy meal tonight of pizza!

Our journey is going to change from here. After traveling with Jenna we have enjoyed a new level of freedom. In hindsight south island hiking would have been a better start for us.

Rowan and I are adding bicycles and we will complete our journey with them. I wish it was electric but we are going with human powered ones. We will be able to complete our tour of Aotearoa by our own steam. This week we will be helping Kelvin and Paula with their pop top caravan and getting gear sorted. We are doing it on a budget. Our aim is under $1k for both of us. So far we have a bike for me $80 and a large frame bike for Rowan $200. Now to get safety gear, panniers, clothing. And probably other gear we never would have though of!