Whangārei policeman Gary Hayes has seen some spectacular places on his walk of New Zealand including this view of Lake Hawea in Otago. Photo / Supplied
Whangārei policeman Gary Hayes has outdone even his own estimation by walking the length of New Zealand along the Te Araroa trail two weeks faster than he planned.
Hayes started his 3000km walk at Cape Reinga on November 1 last year and will officially finish when he arrives at Bluff
on Friday. He will walk the final 35km from Invercargill along the State Highway to the infamous Bluff signpost supported by local police officers, Blue Light branch members and youth.
The aim of Hayes' walk was to raise awareness of the great work the police Blue Light does throughout New Zealand's 68 branches in support of youth, especially those experiencing disadvantage or who are at risk.
The Whangārei officer estimated the trail would take four and a half months to complete.
Since starting his trek he has pushed his body hard, climbing 1267 stairs at the Sky Tower, walking at times up to 18 days straight through extreme weather conditions such as searing heat on the roadside and freezing conditions on mountain peaks.
He has battled thick bush, crossed raging rivers, and endured blisters, wasp stings and sleepless nights from an aching body.
