Ken Lusby (59) reached Balclutha yesterday afternoon after leaving Stewart Island last Thursday, beginning the 2219km walk up the country.
Mr Lusby said he wanted to mark his 60th birthday by giving something back, and decided to raise money for Cure Kids. Aiming to raise $100,000, his total is more than $2000 so far.
A week since starting his journey, Mr Lusby said Wednesday was the most difficult day he had faced so far, with strong winds hindering his 40km walk.
According to his schedule, his 60th birthday will be spent as a rest day in Rotorua, during a trek that started on Stewart Island on August 30 and will finish at Cape Reinga on November 13.
Mr Lusby is accompanied by a support crew of two - friend John Neal in a camper van, and Tony Brown, who is biking for much of the route.
Mr Lusby's walk will cover 59 towns and 2219km over 76 days.
Mr Lusby leaves Balclutha for Waihola today and plans to reach Dunedin on Saturday to enjoy a break during the rest of the weekend.
