Up early again to make the most of the of trek that day, we set off on the 18km loop though yet more stunning landscape that held it's own against the others enjoyed to date. Our efforts in the frequent steep climbs were rewarded by breathtaking views and when lucky, cool breezes or cloud that held the sun's radiated heat in check.

On the last lookout of the day, under the guise of exchanging the Pounamu we had acquired for each, we stopped and Joe got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.... I said yes!!!

We sadly had to leave Stony Bay that night, and headed to a campsite that time forgot close to Tapu for an easier drive into Auckland the following day.