Bruce Hopkins hunkers down in Te Kuiti and meets a couple with a fascinating tale to tell.

Bruce hunkers down in Te Kuiti for a few days to recover from some health issues and stays with a couple who have a fascinating tale to tell. Obeying medical advice - mostly - he hops a bus to Whanganui, skipping an isolated section of the trail, and then walks to Palmerston North. But he's not cheating, honest; Bruce will come back and fill in the missing section in the New Year.

Bruce Hopkins Trail Diary - Week Nine, 10 December - 17 December 2017
Te Kuiti - Palmerston North

"I find myself in the company of more fascinating fellow trampers.

"When asked what is the the best or the highlight thus far, I really think it is the people, both fellow #TAers & #trailangels .

"There is mighty competition from some of the stunning scenery and locales one finds oneself in but the people are consistently a highlight and a delight.

"Briefly we meet and all too soon must part; such is the life of a Te Araroa Trail Walker."

Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details