Executive assistant Sarah Walker (panda) and cleaner Mel Carter (sloth) plan to finish their 357km walk between the two cities today, in Dunedin’s Octagon.
Walking in the changing weather conditions for up to 11 hours each day had been gruelling, but Ms Walker said they were buoyed by toots from passing motorists.
"Sloth’s had a few physical challenges along the way and we’ve worked through that.
"And when we heard there was snow coming, we dressed up warmly under our onesies, and within an hour and a-half we were sweating bullets — it was a difficult balance.
"Otherwise, the public response from Temuka down has been absolutely amazing."
She said they had managed to raise nearly $1400 along the way for Grow Dunedin’s mental health community and support groups.
The duo have been friends since they met at the Salvation Army 24 years ago, and they wanted to do something together to support a community charity.
Grow organiser Shirley Wilkins said she was delighted by the support.
The duo’s "go do it, go get it" attitude was admirable and the funds they had raised would help the organisation to reach community members in mental distress.
