From Cape Reinga to Bluff – walking 3,000km for Tōtara Hospice
When mates Aldo and Mark set out to walk the length of New Zealand, they knew it would be a challenge. What they didn’t quite know was just how powerful the journey would become.
Starting at Cape Reinga and finishing in Bluff, the pair took on the full 3,000km Te Araroa Trail, crossing mountains, rivers, forests and remote stretches of the country, one step at a time.
They weren’t just walking for themselves. They chose to take on this challenge for Tōtara Hospice, helping support local patients and whānau across South and South-East Auckland.
After months on the trail, Mark reached Bluff on 27 March, completing the journey (Aldo had to return home from Queenstown to support a family member). Along the way there were long, muddy days, quiet moments of reflection, unforgettable views, not to mention several pairs of shoes! While the final stretch was solo, this was always a shared effort, built on friendship, determination, and a shared purpose.
Thanks to the incredible support of 124 donors, Aldo and Mark raised $12,410, exceeding their original goal and making a real difference to the people we care for.
Their journey shows what’s possible when you combine a personal challenge with a cause that matters.
