Bruce meets old friends and new on the trail south of Russell but an unexpected event puts the future in doubt.

It's week three and Bruce Hopkins has fallen in love again with Te Araroa - New Zealand's Trail. But does the trail love him back?

Bruce heads south out of Russell, trekking the east coast of Northland and aiming for Pakiri Beach. The punishing gravel roads are behind him and coastal trails with beautiful bays are ahead.

But is this a good time for him to relax and let down his guard? Maybe not...

Bruce Hopkins Trail Diary - Week Three, 28 October - 4 November 2017
Helena Bay - Pakiri

"The last week has been so packed full of variety. Amber and Mark gave me the pounamu I had lost on the second day of the trail. A french tramper named Antoine found it! Amber and Mark had also found my lost trail notes and maps and my missing hat!"

"Spent the night in a stunning Waikahoa bay beach camp but I was vomiting all night having been given some day old unrefrigerated chicken by a well-meaning group of school teachers who were leaving the bay as we arrived."

"Next day walked coastal track to Whananaki. Glorious."

"I stayed with kiwi icons Malcolm and Melanie Rand at their eco village in Ngunguru. Walked to Pataua north to stay with Derek Barnston, a school friend I had not seen for 40 years. Derek and his wife Anne exemplify the spirit of trail angels. Five of us had a superb beer and lunch of fresh vegies out of the garden."

"What happened in your week??? I'm raving, more to come."

Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details