A short walk brought us to Clinton House for an overnight stay before beginning the Track. Over afternoon Tea and evening dinner we socialized with our new companions. As an icebreaker we were called up by country of origin to introduce ourselves ... and sing a song. The Aussie's, Kiwi's and Brit's acquitted themselves well though the Kiwi's came prepared with printed song sheets, home field advantage? We countered with "Row, Row, Row Your Boat" proving once again the superiority of American Culture. A lone German woman visiting her Kiwi boyfriend outdid us all with a beautiful hiking song.

We were introduced to "Charlie" the resident Kea. Parrots blessed with intelligence and huge beaks and having learned humans = food any gear left unguarded is irresistible to them. They will rip through the toughest backpack or shoe leather in their search for an easy meal.