The first frost...

It is fair to say, the early start this morning was a killer. It was pitch black when we woke up, and absolutely freezing.
Everyone struggled to get out of their sleeping bags, and began dreary eyed and not in the mood. We had a 10 minute walk on the flat, and then a small creek crossing. Then the strenuous uphill climb began. Having felt a bit poorly yesterday with a headache and sicky stomach (as though hungover) I was already worried about the walk. The first 5-10 minutes was horrific. I felt sick and tired and hot, but was determined to not let it get the better of me. I really wanted to do this. I kept going, counting out 75 steps and then if struggling took a 10 second stop. I was slow, steady, and definitely not first, but I was also not last. I have never been prouder of myself than when I rounded the corner, and saw some of the rest of the group only 100m away. I made it, to a perfect clearing for the sunrise and it was fantastic. This wasn't good enough however, I had to carry on to the sign to prove I reached the top, and battle off the track to do so with a couple of people. It was brilliant, and such an accomplishment. Yay!
We flew back down the track, and were back at the house by 9:30am. A quick pack, clean up, and reflection on the week, and we're soon in the van and on the road. Rachel met us in Motueka, after a quick snack stop, and said a sad goodbye to mark, who has been fantastic this week.
Again, we started off and headed towards Punakaiki. Another quick coffee stop in Merschen, and then a quick tramp up to look around Lyell (a gold rush town on the west coast, abandoned after exhaustion). We finally arrived at 6:30pm. A long days travelling! A nice easy dinner just heating fresh soup, with homemade bread provided by the hostel. A nice chat, an amazing shower, and now time for bed.