Three Pensioners' Epic 3012km Journey the Length of Aotearoa.

Tim Pankhurst details walking the 3012km Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand's long pathway, from Cape Reinga to Bluff with two companions — former Wellington mayor Dame Kerry Prendergast and his wife Sue.

At times they wondered why?

They encountered flooded rivers, snow and ice, serious injury, hard case characters, personal conflict, magnificent country and some sublime moments. this account is required reading for everyone who has walked the Trail, those who are thinking of getting into the back country and those who never will, but can experience it from the couch.

"An epic read of an epic deed.

Whether you intend to walk all or part of Te Araroa, or just want a great Kiwi read, this one's for you."

Kim Wickstead, former CEO Saatchi & Saatchi

"In a lifetime in the back country I never once fell into a river or had party members fall down a mountainside — until I tramped with these guys."

Lou Sanson, former director-general Department of Conservation