Te Araroa Oct. 2016 to Apr. 2017 - Partners?

Hello Forum! My name is Caitlyn, and I am a photojournalist from Ontario. Recently I have had many changes in my life that have led me to find the Te Araroa hiking trail. I am pleased to announce that I will be leaving Canada in October of 2016 to begin this beautiful tramp. I will be going North to South, starting in Cape Reinga and ending in Bluff. I've never done a big hike like this, and have been considering all of my options. Though I know I would be okay alone, I think I would rather find a hiking partner. For either the whole hike, or just bits of it. I guess it depends on who I meet and who is willing to join me. A bit about myself: I am a 22 year old female (23 by the time the hike begins) with a sense of adventure and excitement. I am very outgoing, and enjoy meeting new people and learning about new cultures. I am 6ft tall, and so far I own a 75L backpack and a 2.5 person tent. Although, on a side note. I think I should rethink my tent. 5lbs may be a bit extreme for a tramp like this. If you have any opinions on the tent situation, feel free to share. If you like laughing, talking, and enjoying the little things, then I think we'll get along just fine. I speak English, and understand a small bit of French. I wish I understood more languages, but hey - maybe I'll learn some on the way. I plan on creating a book about this adventure, and would love to have more people to add in to my life and writing. Thank you, and good luck to you all on your adventures!