I did sleep well. There were a few mosquitoes but I killed them in the dark. It's nice not having to pack up the tent in the morning. Everything is dry and it's much quicker.

I had to climb about 5 km to get out of the forest and got to the top at about 9 AM. What a view. I was probably only about 300-400 m up but I was on the highest point around. I cold see the valley with morning mist in it, the ocean, other hills and it was so peaceful. Descending into the valley was awesome. I was tired and the downhill was long, swooping and gentle. I got to savor the view on the way down. The ride to Dargaville was okay.

I went right to the hostel thinking I could just pay with Visa (after a HUGE shopping trip) but surprise, surprise - they don't have a credit card machine. I walked out the door feeling bummed while remembering that I needed a kitchen for my food. So, back I went thinking, "Somehow it will work out." When I returned, the manager said I could stay for two hours [worth of] work. I said YES. I had to do some weeding and wash cobwebs off of a fence. It took one hour; no problem.

This place is called "The Greenhouse". It's got a huge fishing net strung across the ceiling of its games room and woven through it are all these vines. It looks like a green ceiling. Potted plants are everywhere. Lots of windows and tall ceilings. It's a great place.

Training Diary Comments: Mild. [weather] 2:30. Felt tired today; legs were OK, I just didn't feel like pushing.

Hwy 12 north of Dargaville