Queen Charlotte Track Adventure March 14

Up early for breakfast(muesli and yoghurt) in our room so that we could catch a 7.30am water taxi across Kenepuru Sound to resume our walk. Pete drove us up to the saddle and we began to walk up into the clouds again. This was definitely the steepest part of the whole track and really stretched our calves. We met up with groups we'd seen on the track beforehand as they must have had a rest day in Portage.

The sun came out from behind the clouds eventually so that we could enjoy some views at morning tea and lunchtime.

The signpost at Ship Cove began at 71km.

It was exciting to finally see the 1km post near the end.

We were well ahead of schedule and delighted to see our water taxi turn up an hour early to take us back to Picton. Completing this epic walk felt like quite an achievement - especially for poor David who ended up with blisters on his big toe and allergic reaction around his ankles. We collected the car and drove home to Nelson where some happy dogs greeted us.