Run 1:20:00 [3]
I think I've pretty much avoided the Huka walkway this season - I remember why now: fear of buggering up my calves on the harder surface (they were getting quite sore towards the end and not too great now, but I think they've felt this bad before then pretty much nothing the next day). Went out in the early afternoon, ie stupidly hot, so trouble getting started again but soon came right and enjoyed the stretch out. Had in the back of my mind this might be the day that I strike out for Aratiatia, but the sensible part of the brain was in control and I turned around after a bit over 40 mins - still further than I've been before and just downstream of Wairakei power station. Quick check of the map reassures me that I wasn't stupidly close to Aratiatia, but close enough it is worth trying at a cooler time of year. All started to fall apart around the hour mark though and a real battle on the return from the falls to spa park. Good hot soak afterwards.
A building site has appeared at about the point I used to turn around - I believe this might be where the Taupo bypass will cross the Waikato if it is finished before all the oil runs out. I would like to know who is responsible for the safety signs approaching the site, because I got a good giggle from the juxtaposition of the "Tree felling" and "Heavy plant crossing" signs...