Te Aroha Hohaia grew up moving around the North Island, lived in a caravan as a child, and didn’t discover tramping until adulthood - starting with a summit climb of Taranaki. She shares how that first mentally and physically demanding experience reshaped her relationship with the maunga, leading to repeated climbs and a deeper connection with Taranaki. After getting hooked on tramping she decided to walk sections of Te Araroa, choosing autumn and spring windows until a breast cancer diagnosis and double mastectomy disrupted her seasonal plans. Te Aroha shares her favourite moments from the trail, walking with her mokopuna and adapting plans to fit in extra sections. She shares the benefits of section walking Te Araroa and the joy of returning to a trail and having something to look forward to each season.

Abigail & Isaac are kayaking for 1,000km from Cape Reinga to Tauranga in Feb-Mar 2026 to raise $20,000 for mental health and the ocean. Join the community to follow our journey closely, donate or paddle with us.👉 slowpaddle.nz

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