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The Blissful Hiker meets an English ex-pat in the Tararuas  named Julian and they bond like war-buddies, but are unsure they'll connect again.


In this episode:

1. Blissful bonds with an ex-pat named Julian when they leave Waitewaewae Hut in the Tarauas  sidling the Otaki River on a nasty, muddy, and root-filled trail . 
2. It's hard to say goodbye, she walks alone the rest of the way over Mount Pukeatua, down a steep area of clear-cut, then on road to trail angel – and Julian's friend – Carol's house in Waikanae.
3. Even after dinner, beer and a hot tub, the rain destroys her spirit and Carol's boyfriend Brent restores it with a couple of sandwiches – and coming to accept that rain – and mud and difficult trail – is all part of this thru-hike. 
4. It's easy walking on estuary and beach to Paikakariki where Julian texts and invites her to climb a mountain with him the next day to welcome the new year. 

MUSIC: Impresiones de la Puna by  Alberto Ginastera  as played by Alison Young, flute and Vicki Seldon, piano

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