Change the End Digit – it’s 2026

Happy New Year, everyone, and may this year extend your horizons, make you think, smile, and love with curiosity, thoughtfulness, and kindness.  For myself, that’s what I wish.

Over time, I have lost count of how many times I have told people that, from now on, I will tackle life one step at a time.

There is nothing like starting the year as I mean to go on, by doing just that simple task of walking, with a focus on mindfulness and positivity.  With the odd day just being totally grumpy and pissed off with the universe. We all need a balance in life.

Usually, during the summertime, the Waikareao Estuary Walkways are popular from dawn until dusk. Or, unlike this morning, when it happens to be New Year’s Day and the weather is unpredictable, most people have chosen to sleep in.  

Then there are the times when thunderstorms roll through, or the colder seasons drag the sun down early; there are even fewer of us sturdier types about. Which I feel is a shame.

Sunny summer walks are pleasant and restorative. I enjoy them. 

Though the foul-weather walks, when the great outdoors feels less like scenery and more like a presence, work a different sort of alchemy. The strength and scale of the natural world expand, and my own concerns shrink by comparison.

The First Walk of 2026

Meanwhile, as I walked along the footpath, I admired the magnificent Pohutukawa trees, standing firm, their leaf-laden branches unmoving. No wind. Blissful.

Onwards I went, down the hill and over the bridge, then left, heading around the harbour. The one disadvantage of no wind is that the humidity wraps itself around me, leaving my face resembling a slightly overripe tomato.

By the time I depart the harbourside tracks, now placing myself again along the tree-lined city streets and two blocks from home, it starts to rain, and the wind joins in. Those tranquil summer, stormy and cooler walks suddenly blended, and for a while, I felt the full-on presence of the great outdoors.

Back home, out of that short-lived storm, I can see a hot shower, warm, dry clothing, and the peace of spending time with Les for what they are: blessings.

Joining in with Jo and other walkers from around the world.