DAY 19...Tologa Bay to Tatapouri Campsite

I went to bed thinking that today would be a little tough.  I woke with a calm sea and calm skies and it was warmer than I expected.  That calm feeling only lasted until I popped the head of my red kayak around the point, and yes, as I thought, two metre plus swells greeted me.  Do you love big seas?  Well I like them as a rule, but at the start of a new day and when you have been off the water for two days the idea of swells was not plesant.  With a big swell one side and then the swell backwash from the steep cliffs on the other, ohhh yes it was so much fun.  Then I had a strong cold southerly blowing at me and the next 12kms was a time to reflect on what I was doing.  I was convincing myself at every paddle stroke that I was coming off the water at the first VHF checkpoint.  What would you know, the waves and surf were so BIG at that point, there were surfers out and also Jetskiers riding the waves.  Much fun for them but for me to actually land was going to be a bad experience.  Totally entertaining for Nat and anyone on the beach but not something I wanted to display.  And I would have been OH SO grumpy with myself for packing it in early.

I could see sunshine and I just had to try to get closer to the cliff face in front of me, get some calm away from the wind and drink the thermos of coffee that Nat had made for me earlier.  After a rather one sided conversation on the VHF and concerned comments from Nat I pushed on, hoping the Predict Wind App was telling the truth and the wind was going to drop and swing to be more beneficial.

I got to the calmer area and I got to sit in the sun, drink my coffee and regroup my rather ugly negative thoughts.  I said " SO" to myself and sat for a good 20mins soaking up the sun and thinking...

Then it was around the next point out the back of more breakers and I had 17km to cover.  I refocused and concentrated on everything in front of me.  I looked later at my Garmin to realise I had covered 14km of my next leg.  I actually got a bit of a fright as it seemed a little easier and it was great that I had been so focused on my paddling and the waves and the sunshine that this middle section had flown past.  I smiled inside and thanked all for helping me push past that ugly first 10km and was pleased I had pressed on.

I tried to VHF at the next point but only got a little coverage and then they had gone.  With no mobile and no VHF I paddled to the far end of Whangara Beach, hoping to see them there.  The only good thing at this end of the beach was I was sheltered from the wind and swell so I got to sit and rest.  No sight of the team (later I discovered they had been there but it had taken me too long to get to that end of the beach they thought I had gone past) but no worries, I had to head back out and around as the cut through was a no go, to shallow and way to much surf on the other side.  Out over the swell again and to a safe distance to head to the next checkpoint which was 12km further on at Tatapouri.

I paddled this section till the 6km mark and at this stage could see caravans and campsites so headed in that direction.  At 8.5km I thought cool, a beach I can see people, and I tried the team on the VHF.  They picked up and said they were on the beach...well for the life of me as I got closer not a pink top to be seen.  No VHF coverage with them initially, then we made scratchy contact, this was strange as the closer I got, the worse the contact was.  It got worse and worse and then non existant!  By this stage, my dear Nat, had run back down the road over a hill and in the distance I could see this pink shirt!  I was a bay early!  I should have known as my Garmin does not get distances wrong.  Oh well that was 30mins of rest and I assured them I was fine to paddle onto towards the campsite.

After that it was all good.  I managed to sneak in through the rocks and breakers and land at the boat ramp.  There was a group further along feeding stingray as I pulled onto the sand.  A nice landing, and the BEST part of the day, in fact the best part of each day is when I see the pink shirts on the beach!  That actually rocks my world.

THANKS SUPPORT TEAM.  I am in debt to you all.

Food, water and lots of coffee needed as lack of food today on the water.  Oops, yes I was bad today and am sure I will suffer for not eating enough.  The team had a yummy coffee ready so I sat and ate brownie with honey, coconut oil and a large, hot, sweet coffee.  A blissful shower to get warm and a full tummy...happy Red.

That is it from me tonight, Nat is off to Auckland for a week and Reg is in the KSP role.
Red

Pink shirt searching for a kayak at Whangara Beach

DAY 18...Another Windy Day

We knew last night there was no chance of attempting to paddle today and the weather man was spot on.  Intense gales, more heavy rain and a very cold night.  We even had the heater on in Cuzzie last night before bed!

Up and doing stuff at bout 6ish, I am always hopeful the weather may have gone past faster than had been predicted.  I checked the three forecast apps we have and all said a big negative to any paddling.  Wind and gusts worse than yesterday.  Oh well we had things to do and have kept ourselves entertained.

Coffee brekkie and then we got our running clothes on!  Off we went for an off-road track/coastal run to Captain Cooks lookout and a couple of bays over the other side of Tolaga Bay.  Long legged Nat was setting the pace.  Once we were out and doing it we had a fun couple of hours climbing hills, rock hopping and taking crazy images.

Back for hot showers, more coffee and to get washing and food done.  I talked to some media and generally got a lot sorted and ready for a possible paddle day tomorrow.  Nat has been editing video footage and I have been talking with a couple of people

By the way, thanks for all the likes on Redz NZ Journey Facebook page!  We are now into 300+ likes.  This feels awesome but we are aiming for a like per kilometre travelled, so keep sharing and keep getting us those likes.

We have at last got some sunshine in the sky and things are warming up, but there are dark clouds everywhere and I think it will rain again really soon.  Camp cat has now found new friends, she even comes into the campervan to say hello, we are sure we could smuggle her out as a mascot.  I'm not sure if we have room for her as well, maybe she could just sit in my deck bag and come for a paddle each day...I doubt it!

Other campers have arrived and are setting up for the night, it is always entertainment for us as we watch the antics and manoeuvres and the domestic arguments.  Dinner is on and I am on cooking duty, it is very much a relaxed day for me and cooking is part of my wind down habits.  As is doing the dishes and general campervan stuff.

Lets hope for a good day tomorrow, I will be on the water and I will get a few kms under my belt.  The distance is really dependant on how strong the swell is and also the wind.  I am hoping to get to Gisborne, BUT there are doubts.  We will see what the new day brings.  New support team member arriving in the morning, he is flying into Gisborne and Nat will pick him up once I have departed.

The camp cat has just delivered us a dead bird!  Presents for us now, however we declined the offer of this for dinner and kindly let the cat devour the bird.

I have to say that Nat has found such a pearl of a video, she is so so wrapped with this footage of me.  Well lets just say, it ain't a glamour event or a Miss Universe competition, but REALLY Nat?!  This footage is pretty raw and rough and I am cringing already but you all want to see me out there so watch, laugh and enjoy.  At least I am using sunscreen and lots by the look!!!

Red

Hole in the rock at Cooks Cove

DAY 17...WINDY & STORMY, no paddling today

The weatherman was totally correct and the storm, rain and wind arrived by midnight last night.  Day one of an enforced rest!  Finally a day off the water.  I stayed in my warm sleeping bag until 6.00am!  Then as we have internet actually read some news, had a coffee or two, generally annoyed Nat until she also had to wake up.  Sorry to the support crew as my sleep ins and theirs are a little different.

By 8.30am we were off to Gisborne to do a shop and replenish the cupboards, get new windscreen wipers and fill up with fuel.  While on the drive we looked at the stop and checkin points for the next part of my journey, but that is not going to be tomorrow as the weather and winds get stronger according to all the reports we can see.

Crazy but true, it seemed weird jumping in Cuzzie and driving somewhere as it has been three weeks since I had been anywhere by road.  I was being a bit of a Nana about Nat's speed on the roads.  Oh dear, I must be getting old...

Talking about old, we have been using a evening facial oil from L'oreal & Nat, who is keen to try anything once, placed some on her face and then screeched, "OMG I smell like an old lady!!!"  Thanks Nat I actually liked the facial oil smell, so it is official, I am the old lady on the trip!!  But apart from the smell the Old Lady Oil (Age Perfect Extraordinary Oil Face) passed the test as she then raved about how good her skin felt (so soft).

Anyway back to our day.  Once the chores had been done and there was no paddling we spotted the Bendon shop, ah yep, we where not disappointed and we left the shop with a bag or two!  Ha rather funny as I am only ever in my paddling gear or my casual Sharkskin gear and leggings in the evenings.  Anyway it was fun, and entertaining for sure.

Back to Tolaga Bay campsite to meet Mark Peters from the Gisborne Herald to chat and tell them my story and about this journey.  It is a small world and he knew a number of people that I also knew (2 degrees of separation, or something like that, I think they say).  Great to chat and also to keep spreading the word.

The campervan is also a great marketing tool as today we were filling up with diesel and the guys back from East Cape who where fixing the bridge pulled up and asked all about my trip down over the past few days.  So cool meeting everyone along the way!

After the reporting team had left we headed to the kitchen to make up supplies of my food for the kayak days.  Chocolate brownie (Redz recipe) and healthy truffles!  We talked to other campers and drank coffee and hid from the cold and blustery wind.

And then if anyone knows me...I had to go and do something energetic for the day!  On went the running gear and then layers of warm clothing and we hit the beach for a very blustery and sand blasted walk.  After that we lined up for some sprints on the beach.  Nat is a bloody speed demon and needs to start after me so her long legs catch up with me at the end.  I think we did 12 sprints all up.  Wind and sand blasted we headed to the end of the Tolaga Bay wharf where we talked with a couple of guys throwing over cray pots from the wharf, got caught in a hail storm, and generally laughed at the entire craziness of us both.

Simon Walker, I must say a big thank you for the suggestion of my support crew, she is amazing!  Yep we will argue one day I am sure, but we will always be great friends.

There is a change out of crew on Saturday for a week while Nat returns to Auckland.  I have promised to be on my best behaviour while she is away.

Back to the site for dinner, me working my magic on the BBQ and the Pak'n'Save food rocking big time for us both.  Venison sausages (gluten free), bbq crispy potato slices, and a hash combo of roast carrots, parsnips, onions and cauliflower topped with a tomato sauce creation.  Good thing there were no surprise visitors as there is nothing left, we were both hungry!

Well that is all from me, storm is intensifying and we are tucked up in campervan Cussie for the night.  Thanks everyone for following, please share my story with as many people you know.  We will keep posting so follow us on Instagram as we are very active on there as well and also like and follow on Facebook.

Night Night,
Red

Sprint training on the beach

Nat & Red, laughing like loons in the hail at the end of Tolaga Bay Wharf

DAY 16...Waipiro Bay to Tologa Bay

Today began with an amazing sunrise.  Yes, I know we say this every time, but they seem to be getting better each time.  I am never bored with this time of the day, it is my favourite and I am so glad that I am an early riser.

Today I hit the water at 6.30am.  I watched the surf and swell then off I set thinking all was calm and good and I had plenty of time till the next set.  Ha ha.  My arms said a big "NO", they where not so keen to get moving as I was this morning.  Five swells/waves I hit at the wrong time and just made it over each one with lots of water.  What a nice way to wake up, refreshing saltwater!  Out the back of the waves and in calmer water I was pleased that Nat did not have her camera on the beach, and also really pleased to have the venturi installed in my kayak.  With a fast speed sprint for a minute all the water had funnelled out the bottom.  Yes, my little Red STAR kayak, you totally rocked this morning.

Once drained and all ready to go I gently paddled to the tip of the next point, getting into my rhythm, feeling the wind and the swells underneath, slipping along quite nicely.  I was happy my body did not feel too beaten after yesterdays long haul of paddling.

Nat had set up the plan for today while I paddled yesterday, the sections were smaller between the checkpoints along this next leg (keeping her part of the bargain with making sure she managed my accumulative fatigue!!) just to make sure that I was happy and not hitting the wall because of the big days earlier.

First stop Tokomaru Bay.  This was the 15km mark and I was feeling good and tracking well.  The sun was up, the sky was clearing and the swell was with me.  It felt good!  I eased into another day.  It was calm and flat so after my first checkin point I paddled from then on with no skirt and no thigh braces.

Second stop Anarua Bay.  Another breath taking location and bay, they where all stunning along this coastline.  At this checkpoint there was no VHF or mobile coverage for Nat so I ate, rested and waited for 20mins, then managed to send a txt saying I was on my way to Tolaga Bay and would touch base in approximately 2hrs pending the wind, as it was due to swing around this time.

Today was less mentally hard and I could zone out, enjoy the sun, the breeze, the swells and the actual day.  No big swells breaking near me and no massive wind gusts trying to blow me side ways or my paddle from my hands.  Today is a day when everyone enjoys paddling.  I have to say that I love having the use of my Garmin watch to track my kms, and also the GPS Garmin 62S that reconfirms to me I have got the correct bay and location.  All the headlands otherwise can blend into one, making it hard for me to head in the correct and exact direction.  I made sure I was aimed directly into Tolaga Bay and as you would expect the wind had started to change direction and was now side on and swinging to a head wind.  Typical!  I just put my head down and paddled for the last 7kms into the wind gusts until I could see the pink top of the support crew it is always such a fantastic feeling to see them as I know my day has nearly ended.  A few waves, I got in but as I jumped out the wave swept my red kayak in front of me.  She was in need of a wash anyway!

On the beach we grabbed kayak and gear headed for the Tolaga Bay campsite.  The sun was out and I had made another day.  The negative thing is that we will probably be spending a few days off the water now as very strong winds are forecast.  An enforced few days off the water.  25 to 30 knot head winds.  Yuck, too much for me to paddle in.

We sat in the sun, chatted to other camper van owners and I had the most wonderful powerful hot shower.  Big ups to Tolaga Bay campsite showers.  Washing all done and drying on the line, coffee and brownie consumed so now, dinner.

This is the best part of the day and this dinner was special, it has to be voted the best so far.

Sirloin steak, fried eggs, roasted potatoes, onions & carrots with lashings olive oil & rock salt, loads of wilted spinach, broccoli and barbecued yellow peppers.  OMG.  It was the best yet.  We totally won the kitchen battle on who had the best looking food for the night, far better than the sizzlers and pre-packed beef burgers.  A big thank you to a fellow camper who gifted us some of her spare fresh veges, that is for our dinner creation tomorrow.

Warm and cosy in the campervan, a cup of peppermint tea and whittakers chocolate bar in hand, we are listening to the wind get stronger.  Day off the water for sure tomorrow but we are going sight seeing and will be chatting to the Gisborne reporter tomorrow for a story to be posted in an upcoming issue.  Watch this space for tomorrows antics, we will be hunting for adventures for sure.  Maybe a two hour hike, maybe some eskimo rolling practice, the pub for a cider, the hot springs...

For now, good night.

Red

Red pondering the map

Feast fit for Queens

DAY 15...A Biggy

The weather forecast looked a little windy this morning so we had a sleep in and got up just before 6.00am, aiming to drive up the coast a little to check the waves and swells along the coast out near East Cape.  The best laid plans...often go askew.  The bridge out to the East Cape was under repair and no access for the next 3 days!  Fortunately the sea looked calm and the wind was in my favour. We got ready and packed the kayak, planning for the worst case scenario that I have to pull out at a beach with no access and do a sleep over.  This was going to be a long day for myself and also Nat, lots of rugged coastline and winding roads.

The plan..
Section One: Te Araroa to the mouth of the Waiapu River, touch base via VHF, 30km.
Section Two: Waiapu River to Reporua Beach, touch base by VHF, 14 km.
Section Three: Reporua Beach to as far as I could go, aiming if possible to Waipiro Bay, 20km, or otherwise a beach landing and satellite phone call to the support team and do an overnight on the beach.

SECTION ONE:  Along the coastline heading to East Cape.
I followed and weaved in and out of the craypots dotted along this coastline, the crayboat was out, it was nice to see them and get a couple of friendly waves.  It would have been nicer to get a cray(!) but I did not get close enough to ask.  As I rounded East Cape there was a current, yes they were going in crazy directions and at one stage it seemed as though they where meeting in the centre, there was eddies all over the place.  Gently and carefully I paddled through and around the waves and breaking water, I went wide and out the back to miss any kind of trouble.  The kayak was full with overnight gear so was heavier than usual and I did not want to tip out.

Past the East Cape the wind as predicted had turned and was now a tailwind, with an accompanying swell.  In my head I could hear Nat's voice,  asking if I wanted my sail for this leg and I was now regretting saying no.  :(  Off I headed surfing waves and regretting this all the way, thinking this section would have been even faster if only!  I hoped that at the first check in I would be able to grab the sail.  Ah yes, hope was the only word to use, as there was no chance.  Food and water every 10km, making sure I stopped and rested for five minutes, even if just to refocus and look around.  VHF check point and feeling good!  No chance to go to shore so off I went.

SECTION TWO:  Across the river outlet.
I do not enjoy these normally as the water, currents and waves are all over the place. Today with the strong tail wind it did not cause me any problems.  Whakarihi Point, this was a charmer for sure!  Waves, swells and again out the back to stay safe, which ends up adding on a kilometre to a trip, but better to be safe and cover an extra km than rolling in the surf by trying to do a short cut.  I battled through this and headed to our next checkpoint at Reporua Beach.  All good, it took me awhile to visually sight Nat as she was parked up on a hillside to get better VHF and there was no road access to the beach.  I got in close to the beach away from the tail wind to discuss the next stage and my options.  43km done!  It was time to aim for Waipiro Bay which by my GPS was 20km away.

SECTION THREE: How far can I get?
I made the call that with the tailwind and swell in my favour I would try and push to the final meeting point.  I could hear in Nat's voice she was a little concerned, I said it was my call and I would tough out the next 2.5 – 3hrs as the weather was looking okay.  We agreed to talk in 2.5hrs time, either by VHF or satellite phone.  Mobile coverage has been really bad for this entire section, so very pleased we have the other options.

We knew that in a couple of days the winds where going to be way to strong for me to paddle in so today paddle I did.  It sure was tough.  At least the swell stayed (ever) in my favour, the wind however did not, and had started to swing to a headwind.  Kaimoho Point to Whaikahawai Point was intense, but fun.  There was waves breaking everywhere, I picked my way through them as best as I could and tried to stay safe, again out wide and to the back of all the breaking sets and the coastline.  Once past all this I was able to surf the swells, not many photos this leg as I left my video camera running in my PFD so lots of pocket coverage only!

When it was time to check in 2.5hrs later I was way out the back of some really big swell, but VHF worked so I said I was going to make it to the final location and to keep a look out for me.  Within 15 minutes Nat said she had sighted me.  It was a good 45 mins before I hit the beach, I stopped and ate a chocolate bar and drank some of my home made sweet lemonade cordial.  This gave me enough energy to get to the beach.  Pretty impressed with my surf in today, but once I jumped from my kayak to get out of the waves my legs did not really want to work.  Ahh well my kayak needed a wash out.

Safe on dry land!  Pretty dam pleased with this effort (61.9km!!) and actually looking forward to getting to Tologa Bay tomorrow before the weather turns.

This coastline I think reminds me of Jurassic Park, it is breath taking, wild and I will be back for sure.

Food was waiting on the beach for me and it was SO GOOD (boiled kumera with coconut oil, honey and lashings of salt)  Rinsed my gear and had an amazing one pot dinner, mince, bacon and onion is a great combo, with potatoes, broccolili and (my favourite) cabbage.  I really do love this vegetable!

With a full tummy I am tired and bed calls.  We have no internet so this will be posted in the morning.

Red

Red had an amazing day today, she constantly inspires me with her determination to get up in the dark and paddle everyday!  Support crew had a relatively easy day, and stopped off in some breath-taking spots.  Managed to get stuck in a ditch in one, and am very thankful to Jason for packing me a shovel and some get out of trouble boards!  A couple of days off lined up for Tologa Bay, so if you're around, come visit!

N

Sunrise at Waipiro Bay

Magical get out of a ditch boards!

Day 14...500KM DONE!

The aim today was to get around Cape Runaway to Hicks Bay then along the coast for 5 to 10 kilometres more.  I got as far as the end of Te Araroa Beach, survived the turning tide and the waves to get in safely on a rocky shore at the far end of the beach.

We set off this morning to a stunning sunrise, Nat has posted you images of this already (http://www.redznzjourney.com/photos/) .  My first 30 plus minutes was a little like a washing machine as the wind and the rock back wash rolled back and forth.  It takes about 30 to 45 minutes for me to get into my paddle groove and I am always a little careful (mostly) when first setting out.. as
1. I do not know the water or the coastline,
2. It is early on in the morning and I am still waking all my muscles and body parts up and getting the feel for the kayak for another day.

It is nice to be on this stretch of the coastline as I have heard so many really nice stories from many, and I have had a target in my head to get to Hicks Bay.  This coastline was never going to disappoint, and the weather was shaping up to be another stunning day.  The high cliffs, trees and cliffs right into the ocean, it is what I would say takes your breath away.  The further around i got the better the scenery and coastline became.  I have taken pics and videos of this as my words can not describe this well enough, this is the New Zealand coastline as we all dream it, and no one sees unless out on a boat or kayak.  In many parts there is no road access and my crew touch base with me by VHF.  First one today was at Lottin Point, I got there under the 3 hours for this check in and it felt good to hit the 21km mark.  It took a little while for the team to respond to my VHF call (morning nap it turns out) but they did and it felt good to have been connected.  Thank goodness for VHF, as I have had no coverage with Spark mobile for the past three days, Vodafone is the star performer for communications and internet so far on this trip!!

Next checkpoint is at Hicks Bay, so after food, a 10/15min rest to remove the extra warm clothing and sit and have a coffee that Nat had made and put in a Thermos, (No she is not free to crew anyone else for another 170 days!! lol) I headed off again.  I must thank Sue Levett for this tip, coffee in a thermos flask rocks!   Especially when you started just before 6am paddling.

The swell at this stage and the wind were in my favour and anyone who paddles knows this makes you feel like you can paddle forever, it is nearly effortless except for making sure I watched for the cray pots and the large rocks with breaking waves.  I have discovered that if I keep ocean side of the cray pots then I seem to be fairly safe from a breaking swell.  I have been watching the cray boat guys over the past few days and they have the placement and position of the pots just right and this helps me navigate the dangerous rocky sections.

The swell was not that bad and I did thank everyone for giving me such an amazing day to come around Cape Runaway.  It could by the looks of things be damn ugly if you had the wrong winds, and once you start this section there is no pulling out of the trip until you get to Hicks Bay.

This section I have not really been able to just zone out, paddle and not think as the conditions keep me and my brain busy.  So it has been a mentally tiring leg and it was nice to pull into Hicks bay, hang my feet over the side and cool down for a while.  Then off for the last section to land, just as the tide was turning so the surf beach had a good swell on as I crossed the bay.  I had to stay out the back and come in at the south end of the beach where it was a little calmer, the last five kilometres always seem the hardest of each day.  I easily made it into another rocky beach landing.

Thank you to Mike Scanlan, you seemed to talk to me all the way round this section, and I am sure you will appreciate my pictures and videos.

FOOD...Everyone is asking about my food and what I eat.  The night before we make an extra large dinner so in the morning I have a reheated cooked dinner for my breakfast, with a mug of strong coffee.  Then I pack a couple of Red style scroggin mix, my high energy snacks in 'Kai Carrier' reusable ziplock bags.  I have them all stashed in my deck bag. (sunflower/pumpkin seeds, cacao nib, coconut flakes, honey, tahini, coconut oil and sea salt.  No nuts or dried fruit as they do not agree with me.  Later on I have brownie that we make in the camp kitchens once a week.  This has Whittakers dark choc chunks in it and it is even better when the sun warms it up and makes the chocolate soft!  Lets see if i am over eating this by the end of the trip.

My fluid on the kayak for a day trip is 2 litres of freshwater, 500mls of coconut water and 1 litre of lemon drink in the deck storage.  This seems to do me well for a long hot 6 plus hr paddle.  Most days I get off the water by or before 1.30/2pm so time for a lunch with the support team.  Tuna, leftovers, hot carbs and greens, it all depends on what we have.

Tonight we have backtracked a bit to stay in the campsite at Hicks Bay.  It is lovely and tranquil here, the sounds of birds are occasionally over powered by the locals having a yarn about their day.  We love the lingo, bro!

Red

Farm house between Lottin Point and Hicks Bay

View from VHF contact point at wharf end of Hicks Bay

Day 13...Support Crew taking over

Red has informed me that its high time the support crew tell the world what it is like to spend a day with her, so here goes...

Woken up at 4am because there are alarms set on all of Red's devices that I cannot seem to find and delete.  Back to sleep for another hour till 5am when we actually needed to get up.  I managed another ten mins while Red went to shower and get dressed, then put some water on to boil so her coffee (short black sweetened with honey) would be ready upon her return.  Fished some leftovers out of the fridge for her and went about packing up Cussie.

Short drive down to the water, unloaded the kayak from the roof of the camper and loaded her up for the day.  Short paddle expected today so no over night gear, just an emergency grab bag, the days provisions, electronics and spares.  I had Jason with me still this morning so while he pushed Red out to sea I took a couple of pictures.

After Red has gone out for the day I check over Cussie again and make sure we have everything.  This morning I had a look at our food supplies and found a rotten potato, dinner tonight will be bleak...jokes, we have lots of other tasty things!  Time to hit the road!  Sun is up now and it is so beautiful, I think I am very lucky to be out and about and enjoying the world with no one to spoil it!  Pulled over when cell reception hit and replied to a few emails and sent out the mornings instagram shot (follow us! https://instagram.com/redznzjourney/).  Had a play with Yacht Bot but Red still hadn't reached signal, so off to the first meeting point.

Papatea, side of the road.  Beach is across some fenced land so decide to stay put.  Switch on the VHF and wait.  Skype some friends in the UK, eat some breakfast, wait some more.  When Red reaches the checkpoint the VHF crackles into life and she lets me know that she is happy, and tracking along nicely, and will see me at the pull out point.

I drive off, stereo blasting, these lonely hours on the road are great for my singing practice.  Absorbed in some poppy number, I see a sign for Hicks Bay and realise I may have gone a bit too far.  I turn around and head back, find the campsite and check in, then off to the beach to wait for Red.  Have a book (today, The Children Act by Ian McEwan), my tanning oil, binoculars and the VHF radio.  Can't really complain about today's office.  More sitting and waiting.

Red eventually comes into view, seems we had different marker points for the days final meeting point.  Head to tonights campsite, back up the road a bit at Waihau Bay.  Red has an old friend visiting, the lovely Gordie, so I make coffee and we all hang out on the grass in the sun.  Later on we do some forward planning, measuring distances and looking at where we can pull her off the water if the weather is no good, and where good spots for VHF check ins are.

Showers, cook dinner, prep some food, pack up.  A final check of the weather and we will be off to sleep!

N

View from the office.  She's a hard life, this support crew thing.

Day 12...Happy Day!

Today was always going to be a good one, as I woke before the alarm went off which is always a good sign that I have lots of energy.  You might all ask what time was that, alas to the support teams horror, 3.50am!  Yep cold and dark but was eating breakfast and drinking coffee as we headed back to the surf beach for my launch.  It was great to have both Nat & Jason here this morning, it makes for a very fast setup and launch.  I was on the water and paddling by 5.30am, the sunrise was amazing.  It always makes me smile and stop for a moment to breathe and today I said thank you to mother nature for the great day.

By 8.30am I was actually able to remove a couple of layers of clothing, for the first time on this trip I had got too warm!  I covered myself in sunblock and waved goodbye to the team who where on the shore sunbathing.  The swell was behind me when I set off from Hawai Beach to Omaio Bay.  It was such a brilliant day, (I can't stop talking about how good it was) the coastline is spectacular, and I am sure my video & images will not do it justice.  But trust me, I am coming back to this stunning, amazing, fantastic coastline.  New Zealand at its best!  This is what my dream has been about, these are the days that make the windy hard days fade away, BRILLIANT STUFF.

Omaio Bay, I arrived and looked for the team then realised that I was tracking way to fast and they would not be arriving for awhile.  I scoffed my chocolate brownie sat and rested for a few moments then sent the crew a message to say I was continuing with my paddling.  Soon after they touched base with me via VHF.  I am really pleased we have this option as mobile coverage has been mostly non existant today, so anyone watching sorry my tracker would have lost me often, no need to panic.

Around 1pm I headed to the final check in point.  The water was so clear, the sea deep green and blue.  At Omaio Bay I decided that we should push past Te Kaha to School Bay.  I ended up shooting past the finish point... I thought they said past the point and to the trees but APPARENTLY I was meant to stop at Te Kaha Bay, where the crew where eating large east cape burgers and fries while waving their pink tops at me to stop!   Oops, no real stress as they ate there burgers and raced to the other bay where we meet at the same time.

I was covered in sea water, salt, sunscreen and a huge smile.  That is the first time in the past two days.  I am sure I got the location right, but it is two crew against one paddler so I have lost that discussion!

Now we are planning how to get around to Hicks Bay.  Tomorrow is going to be a short paddle to Cape Runaway, then on the beach and planning.  Monday is Cape Runaway to Hicks Bay.

The support team I am sure have stories for you and are going to add to this blog.  Yes there have been some tense moments and calls especially when I have wanted to get away from the headwinds and storms.  Yes I have some blisters on my hands, but today...nothing is a problem!  It has been brilliant, so brilliant I am going to go to bed with a smile.  I even went looking for a cold cider today, but no luck had to have a LION RED Shandy instead!!  The barman wanted Nat to start drinking tequila with him,  yep at 4.00pm.  She did decline but I can see if she disappears it will be around this coastline for sure.

Food today, lots of it and often.  Coconut oil, honey, taini and seeds all working well for me.  Eating a big meal similar to my dinner is working as my breakfast option with salt and magnesium as my only real supplement.  Tomorrow I have promised myself some Eskimo rolling at the end of the short paddle.  Time to swim and just plan.

RED

Red all salty and happy after her paddle

Stunning Bay of Plenty

Day 11...Whakatane to Ohope Beach to Hukiwai Beach

3.50am we got up and started to get ready for the day.  It was cold, dark and a little windy.  We headed to Whakatane boat ramp, it was really cool as the boot camp group had started their training for the morning and Rachel came to say goodbye (the wonderful friendly local lady we met from the day earlier).  It was so so nice. THANK YOU Rachel if you get to read this, big hugs from RED.

Well I set off and had a wonderful trip to Ohope where I talked with support team on the VHF, hoping that the wind would stay at the level it was in the first 10kms. It was the start of a lovely day... ahhhhhhh no, not to be.  The wind picked up and the battle of me vs mother nature started and it continued until...yep... Mother nature actually won.

I called it a day at lunch time.  Support team found me on the beach, as I landed.  I just stepped out of the kayak, walked to the sand hills and sat for a little while getting some energy and food into me.  I watched the off shore wind lift the waves and sand into the air, contemplating the mornings journey.  

As anyone who paddles knows when it is windy and very gusty there is never a good time to put down your paddle to eat and rest as at any moment that gust may catch you out and you could be over and practicing your rolling techniques, or worse still needing to re-enter your kayak wet and cold.  I was in need of nourishment and warmth and to get away from the head wind, so I called it a day.  On this mad crazy stretch of beach we loaded Thelma (the red star kayak) and headed to Optoki campsite to sit in the sun away from the wind.  We washed and dryed my gear, talked with the local media about my journey and sent some emails out to see if we can get some more support and help.

V3 Ltd have been and are helping me so much, but it weighs heavily with me each day and I am not able to feel fully happy until I am able to repay them in full, then I can dream freely & breathe deeply.  This is just me and my thoughts, as you will all get to know on this journey, just me, myself and my thoughts.

Jason has been a great support person this week while Nat has been in Auckland doing her other work.  There will be a change over tomorrow and then poor Nat has me for the next 7 days, until she disappears again.  I think this is good and best for the support team as I am sure I can get a bit much somedays!

Today and tonight my energy levels are good so am hoping for a big and pleasant paddle tomorrow.  Watch the posts and tracker as we travel up from Hukiwau Beach to Hariki Beach Boat Ramp.  Fingers crossed the weather gods are with me tomorrow.

I am trying to eat lots and already my meals have changed and increased, now for breakfast I have the same as the dinner from the night before.  This morning I had mashed kumera, spinach, chicken drumsticks, lots of olive oil/ balsamic and tahini dressing.  No muesli for me I am afraid to say, I am liking this savoury meal for now.  In fact, I would not share my spare dinner with Nat when she she arrived from her long trip to me.  I am sure she will pay me back!

My food is packed, my gear is dry and my bed is calling.  Early start on a lonely black sand surf beach in the morning, support team will be taking photos, hopefully of a great and entertaining start to mine and your Saturday.

Good night, RED.

View from my contemplation spot on Hukiwai Beach

Day 10...Matata Beach to Whakatane

Last night it blew a gale for most of the night.  Support crew Jason was convinced my CROCS would have blown away and sent me out to check at about 1.30am!!  Luckily they where still there.

Early in the morning it was still really blustery so I stayed in bed.  Finally the weather out the window looked okay, and the forecast was for a head wind but only 10 to 15 knots.  I hit the water at about 8.30am, with hindsight it maybe would have been better to go earlier...

After the first hour or so I was tracking fine, then the gusts got more intense so my battle to reach the point of Whakatane started.  Low stokes, just making small headways and little gains.  My per km rate dropped and so by the time I got to Whakatane I had decided enough of this day.  30km, 5.5hrs, it was over.  The desired location to finish was Ohope campsite, but this was not to be.  I called the support team to please come and collect me.

As I landed a couple of ladies who had been having lunch came down to chat and say they had heard of my journey.  It was so nice to talk and meet new people!  They then called the local newspaper contact and they came down to do an interview and take some pics.

YIPPEE for the campervan shower, it was a blessing and I have discovered that you can sit down while showering, ha as if I needed to sit anymore after all the kayaking.

Actually this was a another tough slog of a day on the water and when I hit dry land I was very pleased, not so pleased with my progress, but that is just me and my mindset, but pleased everyone else is happy.

The weather tomorrow looks the same as today.  I would like a tail wind again soon, just for a day or so.  5.30am start tomorrow, maybe get to Opotiki, maybe get a little further.  I will not promise too much.  "Under promise, over achieve."

For anybody looking for a great campsite, then come to Ohope it is lovely!  Dinner tonight we have had Chix, salad, potato and kumara mash with avocados and tomato, lashings of olive oil dressing, home made choc brownie (fresh from the oven) and Whittakers choc with my cup of tea to finish, bet you are all jealous... Always got to have great food!

Bed is looking good, I have to say, the campervan is totally loved by us all, thanks to Sonja Rosen another amazing person I have meet.  It is cold and windy tonight, so lets see what the morning brings.  

Support team change over tomorrow, Jason leaving and Nat returning..

Night night from RED (sorry for the waffle, tired tonight).

Got to thank everyone for the donations, heck you are amazing :)

Departure from Matata Beach

Day 9...Papamoa to Little Waihi to Matata Beach

It rained all night and was rather stormy, even sleeping in the camper van I seemed to wake often thinking and hoping that the weather would blow over quickly and that the day would be calm, bright and sunny.  It was really not going to ever happen the way I hoped for and I awoke at 5am. It was a struggle and I started getting ready slowly today..

An email I received in the morning that was sent late last night left me feeling a little low (as budgets and fund allocations dipped, and I understand totally) but from every darker moment there is another door that will open, and it will,  I have massive faith.  The support from everyone has been overwhelming so far and it is totally never being taken for granted,  I have started on my journey and am very happy that I am able to fulfill this lifelong dream, I will be saying thank you for a long time. 

I hit the beach just on 7.00am and yes, Papamoa did not disappoint.  There where waves, about 4 small sets to get over and through, watched and waited with the support team, until I  committed.  I have to say my paddling gear is fantastic, a BIG thank you to Sharkskin clothing, it is the bomb.  It was forecast for heavy rain so I also had on a rain jacket, and later this proved to be the right clothing option as when the heavens opened it was what I  needed.

Out the back of the waves at Papamoa it was like a gentle annie washing machine and though I thought I was going nowhere fast, when I checked on my Garmin I had clocked 4km in 30mins!  Happy I  was covering distance well.

There were large waves at the point just before Little Waihi so I had to head out a little to get safely around. I then sheltered from the wind and chatted to the support team on VHF to inform them that it was easier to keep pushing on to Matata Beach as the beach looked unkind for a stop off, and also the weather was due to get worse by 1pm.  So I rested, ate some of my amazing chocolate brownie, ( Kumera/ Beetroot base with chunks of Whittakers dark chocolate, I will post a recipe for anyone that is interested) it is totally yummie, honestly, and gluten free,,

I kept a watchful eye over my left shoulder for the next 10 kilometers as I could hear the thunder and see the storm heading my way.  Yes it did catch up with me.  I put on my kayak safety leash and paddled slowly with heavy rain and a few large wind gusts.  The good thing was that with the heavy rain the seas did flatten, so I took my time and waited for this weather pattern to pass.  There was about 30 minutes of storm and then the sun came out and my final 5 kilometers were nice and rolling, no real dramas.  I saw the support crew on the beach and talked to them by VHF radio again about the best way to land.

The beach was steep and there where large breakers so I sat and watched the sets rolling in studied the beach. When I finally committed to a landing, I survived!  Aapparently I did well, the land crew said. Bis high fives on the beach after that dry landing..

Fed, showered and have had a sleep, over 47 kilometers done today!   By the look of the weather forecast, we will be spending the day off the water tomorrow as forecast is not in my favour at all.

Red

Papamoa departure.

Day 8...Waihi Beach to Mt Maunganui to Papamoa :)

The day started bright and early, on the water by 5am.  I am a early bird and it always make me smile to be on the water on a calm day before sunrise.  Seeing the sunrise is always a great buzz time for me, I sit and watch and contemplate just for a moment or two...

With the guidance from Lockie and Jackie Wenham, locals at Waihi Beach, I was given the insiders knowledge of Bowentown surf and ocean layout the afternoon before, so I was able to have a safe and fairly uneventful, paddle to Mt Maunganui.  Tailwind and swell with me all the way so I did manage to cover some distance.  Yes the Mount did still take a long while to reach..

So nice to have people on the beach waiting for me,  support crew Jason Marshall on the beach with a good friend Shelley Bullock with him, then a new face of Nathan Pettigrew who had come to say hello and chat with me on the afternoon paddle.. 

Coffee and food from Cussie the campervan and a sit in the sun to warm up, also stopped and admired the beach and chatted for awhile.

As well as Nathan I was joined in the afternoon by Andy Warner from Star Kayaks.  Just on midday we hit the water for a short fast paddle down to Papamoa Beach Resort. It was nice to be riding waves and chatting between the 3 of us.  Lots of laughter and plenty of stories to be told, plenty of banter was had between the three of us.  

We all managed to land safely in the waves at Papamoa. I am sure we all wished that someone had timed it wrongly in the waves coming in, but alas it was not meant to be.  I even went for a swim after this paddle to cool down.  Nice campsite, nice beach.  Another place I need to spend time at and I will return.

We shared stories on dolphins, of course sharks and orca spotting.  Totally cool day and I wished my new friends could have stayed around for longer.  We were starving once we finished so while Andy ran back to the mount, we headed for a hot bowl of chips!

Covered about 48 km today!  So happy with that, tomorrow windy and wet they are saying... oh dear.. and then it gets apparently worse.  So maybe stuck in one location for a couple of days soon, it was always going to happen sometime. 

Steak, salad and roast potatoes for dinner.. YUMMIE.. and a chocolate bar with my cup of tea..

Tired now.  I will not be out on the water until after sunrise in the morning, as I do not know this beach that well and a rough and windy beach start in the dark is not my kind of ideal start to the morning.

Red.

Day 7...it's flippin' cold

5am on the water.  Stunning sunrise.  Bloody cold start!  Support team needed a rest and a warm up after my launch.  Paddled on smooth calm sea all the way to a calm tranquil beach landing at Whangamata . 

Coffee, sunshine and a rest after a 25 km paddle.  Chat to some other campervan owners then back to the water for a trip to Waihi beach.  Beautiful coastline, lots of caves and fun areas to paddle.  Will come back again for sure. 

Met by a great school friend on their boat to escort me into the beach, thanks Jackie Wenham and Lockie, so nice to see your smiling faces. 

Coffee, a drive around and sight seeing, what an amazing afternoon.

Thanks again to all

Red

8 degrees, 5am.  Sunrise better be worth it!

Day 6... Go All Blacks!

Up bright and early at 4 am...BUT not to paddle, we joined others in the campground TV room to watch the Rugby World Cup action.  Front row couch seats and a flask of offee made using our ROK coffee machine, the best!  Brilliant result as you all will know.

Then breakie, wet paddling gear on, more coffee and then down to the beach to head off, aiming just for Pauanui beach today.

Great timing as I hit the water and set off the members from BASK where paddling through as well so spent time chatting to them as they paddled through the small caves etc.... Then it was time to say good bye and get into the day.  The first hour was good and then found a strong current that made me paddle hard.   For the next hour plus I was feeling like I was going sideways like a crab.  Oh well can't have everything great all the time.

Found some cool cliffs caves and rocks and swells to play in for a little while which takes my mind off the task when it gets a little mind numbing.  Always fun to be paddling the STAR into the head wind, crazy but this little kayak likes head winds and yes there was winds today near the headlands, and a small chop too.

Meet the team on the far end of Pauanui, waving their pink sharkskin tops about to get my attention.  Back to a house today to stay, thanks to Margaret-Ann and Rob for their place.  Too much of these comforts and I will not leave.

The rest of the day we lay in the warm sun and enjoyed this shooter day ..

Tomorrow a little different back to bigger distances .

Red

Waipapa Island on the left

Day 5... Waikawau Bay- Opito Bay - Hahei

The day started well up at 5am and on the water before 7am.  Calm, peaceful and stunning coastline along the way.  As I had planned for and hoped for a good few kms today, I went on a direct route and at one stage thought I felt closer to the Mercury Islands than I did to the Coromandel coastline!  Lots of memories today of time with the Blackwells at Kuotuna and the scallop diving at the Mercury Islands, also diving at Opito Bay...

It was just on 11.30am when I arrived at Opito Bay,  time for warming in the sun, some lunch and then discussing the crossing to Hahei.

The support team nearly had the same amount of driving to do as I did paddling. 

As per normal it was a little like a washing machine out there, wind against the tide and swell going across me.  Lots of entertainment as there where at least 3 boil ups and typical, I had no line with me to fish with.  So I just kept the paddle ticking over and enjoyed the time with the wind and water in my face.

Yes it was a longer day for me but a very fulfilling day as I was keen to be in Hahei for the night.  It has been my Summer Holiday patch for the past 18 + years, so heaps of great memories..

Support team: Nat and Jase on the beach and also some members from BASK.  It was so nice, as always, to see smiling faces and to tick off the day.  For once the Hahei Beach was kind and it was an easy landing.  Many times this beach has caught me out with random waves, the creek end seems the safest.

Yippee a hot shower!  Support team to cook me dinner and time to sit in the sun.  THEN to watch the rugby game... as can not imagine anyone in the campsite will be a sleep so I will join in the supporting spirit.

Thanks all for following..  it is fantastic..

Red.

Mike towing my kayak as the rest of the BASK contingent talk to me about my journey

Day 3 & 4... Stuck at Port Jackson

Departed Wynua Bay looking forward to this day, as spent all my childhood in boats fishing and camping at Papa Aroha.  Coastline was as amazing as I remembered, very pleasant paddle until the last 45 minutes.  Strong head wind, large waves and quite rough with rainstorms.

Arrived at Port Jackson in pouring rain, expecting a nice hot coffee handed to me by my support team...alas they were running slightly late so I hung out in the shower and waited.  One hour later, Cussie the camper arrived and I finally got my coffee.

Food, rest and planning took up most of the rest of the day, early to bed for a hopefully early start, alarms set to 3am!  Alas, all good planning ruined by mother nature.  Really windy, really wet and really dark.  So back to sleep, waking every hour to check, but no luck.

After a late breakfast we went for a wander up the hill, to check on the waves on the other side.  Much monitoring and wind watching and discussion later, I decided to head off after lunch.

Amazing coastline!  Swell and tide helped me around the tip of Coromandel to Port Charles, then bigger chop the rest of the way to Waikawau Bay, where support team were waiting on the beach, yippee!

Cold shower, yummy hot food (one pot wonder, watch this space for a cook book), planning for tomorrow and soon bed.  

Red

Day 2... Why Wyuna Bay?

This morning was calm and clear, a stunning morning.  No wind and a small swell, yet again the weather was kind to me for a Waiheke to Coromandel crossing.  Fun times on arrival as I arrived to near on a low tide and had lots of soft mud to wade through. 

Lots of people have asked me why this way ? Why to Wyuna bay?..

Well this is my journey and along the way I want to enjoy seeing friends and family in their homes, so I have done a small back leg to see family, Jeanette & Leith.  Thank you for having me.

Stopped in and now off to look around and to breathe.  This journey has been a long time as a dream and a long time of prep.  Now, well, now it is real.

It is peaceful now up on the hill overlooking the bay.  I am getting ready for a new day, new wind, a bit of rain and also seeing my team tomorrow...

Red

Wynua Bay, Coromandel Peninsular

Day 1... Takapuna send off and paddle to Waiheke

It was quite over whelming to see so many of you come out to support me this morning, THANK YOU so much to everyone who turned up, sent well wishes, or just had me in your thoughts.

I arrived safe and sound at Waiheke at about 12.30, had a bit of a tail wind and made great time.  I did however had a bit of a moment just past Rangitoto where a big large wave made me extremely wet...and woke me up!  Fortunately I managed to get back in easily.  So you can all stop worrying about me!

Off to enjoy the sunshine and the beautiful island weather!

PS, heres the link to the tv3 news article...

http://www.3news.co.nz/nznews/kayak-journey-raises-money-for-mental-health-foundation-2015102713#axzz3pj4bjNs5

FINAL DAYS OF PREP & PACKING

Ok, yes it is getting to the serious last things to do, campervan is nearly packed.. just have a few personal things to add and then fill the fridge.. my OCD mind is going into overdrive at the moment, but fresh food and filling of the fridge is the only job I want to be doing tomoroow..

So today Sunday 25th Oct is the final push to get it all completed.. 

Yes there will be things we will need and want to change along the way but I now need to just put my head down and get all of my list completed and stop adding things to it..

So coffee and breakfast completed, now onto the list.. will share abit more later on before departure.

Sold my spare kayak yesterday on trade me.. sold my rode bike as well.. the thinking was they needed to have a fun summer and not be in the garage gathering dust, so hoping the new owners will enjoy and have fun summertimes on my gear.

Meet an amazing lady from " Mental Health Foundation", yesterday and I am happy as to be teamed up with caring and helpful and fun charity..who want to make a difference to ALL with depression and mental illnesses.. THANKYOU ..and a big smile for making my Friday a successful day..

Thats it from me at the moment.

NB: Paddled with a " UNICORN".. ( aka Andy Warner)..yesterday.. that made me smile.. ad I needed to get on the water..

THELMA & LOUISE are Ready.. :)

FINAL WEEK OF PREP & TRAINING

Well this final week has so far been interesting, we are busy trying to complete lists and get Cussie the campervan ready and packed. New seating, new curtains, roof racks and spare kayak loaded, sign writing has been done. We are looking ok... actually we are looking pretty good.

I have slowed down on my training and am just ticking over doing some light gym, slow and gentle swims with a little bit of running, my day is spent driving around collecting supplies and it seems that as soon as I tick of a completed job another 2 appear at the bottom of the list. It is most certainly a little stressful at times.

I do have a small paddle planned for Saturday just so I have a moment to breathe.

View fullsize

BUCKET LIST  DREAM...TO  SIT IN THIS FOUNTAIN..

The plan is to be completely packed and ready by Sunday night, so Monday is a calm and restful day... Lets see.

Last minute stressful prep is never good for anyone so am trying hard to have it all done .

Thanking all the people for there support and help, without them I would have not got this far.