Distance today = 60.64 km; Total distance = 1000.92 km; Location = 5 km north of Wharanui –  41 52.837′ S, 174 07.001′ E; Start time = 0840, Finish time = 1657

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/142862971

For those who came in late, click on the link above to view the details of today’s run, as well as all past days. And click on the little circle next to the word “More” on the Tom Tracker to view where I am in real time.

Another big day, but it was planned, and will make tomorrow a little easier. It was as nice a piece of coastline to run along as anyone could hope for, although the last 10 km was into a fierce headwind, making for less than enjoyable running. Luckily I was well fuelled up on a delicious chocolate cake that Libby baked yesterday. It was so nice, I could have run 100 km. And I reached 1,000 km today, in only 19 days. Only 25,232 more to go.

Just a quick comment on pace – most people would be surprised at just how slowly I actually run during these 50 and 60 km days. When stops and walking stints are taken into account for food and drinks, phone calls, photo and video opportunities, and toilet breaks, I am lucky to average 8 km per hour. But it’s important to take it slowly and stop to “smell the roses”. Rushing and not enjoying each day would be defeating the purpose. Just about anyone could keep up with me. Really!!!

Thanks to the A1 Motel in the town of Ward for putting us up for the night. Once again, we greatly appreciate the hospitality.

Distance today = 52.56 km; Total distance = 1053.48 km; Location = Blenheim –  41 30.674′ S, 173 57.566′ E; Start time = 0831, Finish time = 1607

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/143075506

Today was a hard slog. It was the hottest day of the run so far, with the sun beaming down on me all day long. And there were lots of hills and mountain passes to traverse as well. But it was all worth it, as I passed vineyard after vineyard entering the Marlborough region.

Then the support crew surprised me with the accommodation they had arranged – a fantastic couple of units at the Marlborough Vintner’s Hotel. Check out the photos on the Home Page. It’s superb. Thank you very much to all the staff here at this very luxurious establishment. I’m looking forward shortly to sampling some the world famous sauvignon blancs and pinot noirs of the region, kindly provided by the hotel.

I’m a little tired after a big week so far. In the first five days of this week I’ve chalked up 286 km. I’m looking forward to a bit of a rest now. Tomorrow I only have a short day of 28 km to the Wellington ferry at Picton. We will be saying goodbye to the South Island, and heading across the Cook Strait to the North Island.