I used to take part in these walks in Austria and Switzerland. Called Volksmarch, I went with the same group of friends every year. It is an activity to promote health, fun and friendship, often with the proceeds going to charity.
I had special walking boots, thick woollen socks, all weather parka, the works. They were enjoyable events and I met people from all over Europe. I can't recall how long the walks were but I can't ever recall a distance of 42km. Maybe that's our obsession with marathons.
I remember there was an hour set aside to begin the walk. There were those who were at the starting point right on the hour wanting to get away first, some who waited for the crowd to thin out and started later, and there were those who turned up set to go just when the hour was nearly up.
We all got medals when we completed the walk. We walked through beautiful countryside and villages, usually having lunch at a particularly beautiful spot. Wine and cider was always available - I can remember that.
As I walked through the forest on Saturday I couldn't help but think there is no improving on the work of Mother Nature. The sunlight hitting the tree tops, the mighty redwood trees making a canopy overhead, generous native bush and a thick forest floor that muffled all outside noise. I couldn't believe the number of other recreational walkers that I passed, from couples to families and groups.
And if you want to hear a foreign language then head to the Whakarewarewa Forest. Everyone I passed seemed to speak a foreign language. Perhaps they are the ones who appreciate our beautiful forest more than we do.
There was a lot of foot traffic that day yet the forest was still quiet and peaceful. That is what I enjoyed most, the tranquillity. As usual I got lost in my own thoughts, it's easy to do in such beautiful surroundings.
Ten years ago I used to walk most mornings in Whakarewarewa Forest. I did the same 50 minute circuit every morning and was home shortly after 7am.
The walk set me up for the day. I would talk to myself and God too. Get everything off my chest without any interruptions. I planned my day and got on with it.
Then I stopped. I don't know why but I do know now I shouldn't have.
I think I stopped because I convinced myself I didn't have time to fit in my daily walk. I suppose life got busier. Got in the way.
But the walk on Saturday has had an effect on me. It reawakened why I started walking in the Whakarewarewa Forest years ago in the first place. It is good for the soul. And I feel nearer to God.
