Wilderness

Each issue of Wilderness takes its readers to the most beautiful areas in New Zealand, whether by foot, mountain bike, sea kayak, raft, pony or dream.

Great Walks move with the times

Wilderness NZ

PIGEON POST

YOUR TRIPS, YOUR PIX • What did you get up to last weekend?

New name for Milford Track landmark

WILDERNESS WORD

I'M DOING IT! • Three Walkl200km participants share their reasons and experiences.

FIVE REASONS TO TARP CAMP • A tarp is light, packs down small and provides a closer-to-nature experience.

5 LIGHTWEIGHT TARPS TO TRY

NEW ZEALAND'S BEST BACKCOUNTRY BOG • Can we harness the power of the tramping hive mind to uncover New Zealand's top toilet? And is a soft-close loo lid going, well, too far?

SEE MORE … TARN HUTS • There's only one thing better than a scenic mountain tarn: a tarn with a hut nearby.

AN OVERLOOKED SANCTUARY • MASON BAY HUT, Rakiura National Park, Stewart Island

The Gap, Korowai/Torlesse Tussocklands Park

Iron Gate Hut, Ruahine Forest Park • Wander deep into the western side of the Ruahine Range for a topquality stay at a plush hut.

Derek Turnbull Track, Southland • Listen to tūī on this beautiful scenic track in Forest Hill, close to Invercargill. The trail leads to two stunning lookouts and is a good day trip for the whole family.

Lindemann's Loop Track, Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park • Discover gold-mining and logging history, waterfalls and views of the Bay of Plenty.

Mt Arthur, Kahurangi National Park • Kahurangi's second highest and most accessible summit is not to be missed. There are staggering views from the peak, and a fascinating karst landscape to walk through. It is one of the best day or overnight trips in the upper South Island.

TACKLING THE NEILL-WINCHCOMBE • on the access road, a different Tararua route pioneered 93 years ago has come back into vogue. Wilderness tackles the ‘Neill–Winchcombe'. Wit access to the famous Southern Crossing hampered by a large slip

STALWARTS of Taranaki MAUNGA

NINE TAKEAWAYS FROM TRAMPING BACK-TO-BACK GREAT WALKS • It may be hard on the knees, but there are plenty of benefits to going on a tramping binge and tackling the Great Walks back-to-back.

KNOCKING ON HEAVEN'S DOOR • How a Great Walk started a great love affair with New Zealand's backcountry

BEEN THERE, DONE THAT • The Great Walks are the perfect trails to start your tramping career on, no matter your age.

A CONFIDENCE BOOST • A Great Walks journey reveals mental strength and confidence for a first-time tramper.

GREAT WALKS PLANNING, PREP AND EXECUTION • With some Great Walks being so busy they're now a ‘once in a lifetime’ experience, it pays to plan and prepare well in advance to ensure the reality lives up to the hype.

THE GREATEST DAYS • The Great Walks are a memorable experience but there are some days that will leave you awestruck.

SEEING THE MAP IN 3D • When studying the map bef ore departure, take the time to identify escape routes. You might need one when a change of plan is required.

A SHORT LITTLE GUIDE TO READING CLOUDS • Learning to read the ethereal and seemingly mystical formations of clouds will help understand upcoming weather and make eritical decisions in the back country.

COFFEE, COCONUT AND CARDAMOM PORRIDGE WITH CARAMELISED PEARS • A bowl of oats and a cup of coffee are two welcome hand- warmers on a frosty morning. This recipe goes even further, combining the two so you don't have to juggle the crockery.

LIGHTWEIGHT PACKS • To travel faster and cover greater distances, you need to lighten your load. The best place to start is with a lightweight pack.

What's in MY PACK •...