NZ Underfoot finish marathon hike of NZ

Most people would think spending five months on end with your partner unshowered and unshaved, navigating some of New Zealand’s toughest terrain would be their worst nightmare, but for American Dennis Behan and Kiwi Alice Smith it was nothing.

On February 8, 2008 in Bluff, the couple completed the final stage of their five month journey, hiking the length of New Zealand.

In this amazing feat, Alice and Dennis covered 2900 KM in 139 days, starting at Cape Reinga on September 22, 2007 and finished on February 8, 2008 at Stirling Point Bluff, where they were greeted by supporters.

The couple said of their journey together; “Surprisingly it’s been really easy hiking together for the last 5 months; you just don’t sweat the small stuff and learn not to take everything in life for granted.  We’ve had this wonderful opportunity to take in New Zealand’s stunning surroundings and we didn’t want to spoil it, you just have to learn to stay grounded.”

Through their website www.nzunderfoot.com they raised $2,500 for  Project K.

Graeme Dingle said this of the pair; “I am truly proud of Dennis and Alice’s gut’s and determination to succeed and so grateful to them for choosing Project K as a recipient.  Their journey serves as a perfect example of what we want Project K students to achieve, setting goals and aiming high.”

The keen hikers known to be a little crazy for their enthusiasm have decided to fit in 13 days hiking around Stewart Island, before heading back to Auckland for a family wedding.

For updates on the hike or if you would like to make a donation, please visit www.nzunderfoot.com

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