In February my Mum Rowena Fulham (Ngāi Tahu – Ngāti Irakehu) completed Aoraki Bound – although, “completing” doesn’t do it justice – she absolutely smashed it. Her latest achievement isn’t a surprise to me because she has never had a limit in place as to what she will do. It’s what I admire most about her. Seven years ago I had the opportunity to take part in Aoraki Bound myself. My experience didn’t quite go to plan. There was an emergency helicopter ride and a flight to Christchurch from Greymouth in a somewhat questionable plaster cast on a broken arm, and equally questionable hospital gown. So since then, I’ve been ‘that Sarah.’ It’s nice to hear the general response has become, “Oh, you’re Rowena’s Sarah.” I walk a little taller now, that’s the gift Mum has given me. She carried me with her in February – so in a way I got to get a little closer to that finish line. Below is Mum’s experience in her own words. I hope her words encourage many more Ngāi Tahu whānau to take on the challenge of Aoraki Bound. Nā Sarah Fulham.
“The 20 days on Aoraki Bound took me from one extreme to another, physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually and culturally. It was an incredible journey that was one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done but by far, the most rewarding. From day one it was obvious we would be outside our comfort zones constantly and that’s exactly what I was looking forward to. For me, heading off on the four day hīkoi was meaningful in that my daughter (Sarah Fulham) and my father (Maurice Nutira) had done the same walk.
In doing my mihimihi, introducing myself and explaining where I’m from, I found connections to my Dad a number of times, so again I got to take my Dad’s spirit with me. He made the pounamu that I wear and it came from the Arahura, so tramping up that river and hearing the stories was very special for me.
At the start of this journey I wondered if I could do it. I was the oldest in the group and my strategy was to stay at the front of every challenge so I wasn’t chasing the bunch. The support and encouragement from the group pushed and pulled me to the end. Everyone had their own strengths that made our watch pretty awesome.
My advice to you is to look for the support around you in anything you find challenging, there is always someone who will remind you what your strength is. Completing this journey is the start of another. I’ve got things to do now, goals to strive for and lifelong friendships with people who have a special connection. This experience has helped me understand the importance of re-connecting with the people and places around Wairewa. I’ve realised an absolute dream and walked the footsteps of my daughter and my dad. I would never have achieved that without this opportunity.”
Rowena crossing the swing bridge.
Kupe 614 reach Noti Raureka.
Rowena and husband Mike at the graduation ceremony with Aoraki in the background.