Innholdsfortegnelse for January 2025 i Walking New Zealand

As the awareness and popularity of Korea increase, a number of operators are adding new or enhanced tours. Intrepid has just launched a nine-day Cycle South Korea tour which explores the country's world-class cycle routes, from rivers and beaches to city streets. Visitors can cycle through Seoul, the seaside city of Gangneung, Sokcho, Gyeongju and Busan, and discover the Four Rivers Bike Path. Crooked Compass offers a journey along the ‘Dream Road’ on its Cherry Blossoms and Nomads tour. Visitors can hike through forests brimming with cherry blossoms and in Mt. Songnisan National Park, they stay in a tradtional Buddhist temple stay, experiencing alms under the New Korea toursmaking waves starlit sky, mountain meditation and tea ceremonies. Tomato Travel offers an Ancient South Korea 2025 itinerary that visits Seoraksan National…

This summer DOC intends to pilot paid parking at three South Island visitor hotspots to help manage visitor pressure and support conservation. The pilot is funded by $3.8 m from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). Work includes car park improvements and introducing paid parking systems for car parks at Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, and on the West Coast, and White Horse Hill, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park in Canterbury. People from across New Zealand and the globe are drawn to our stunning landscapes and nature. It's DOC's job to protect and restore nature and ensure these experiences are good, says DOC's Heritage & Visitors Director Catherine Wilson. “These three car parks are among our busiest. We can't just keep building bigger car parks – it doesn't solve the issue…

We just walked a delightful loop to the summit of Mt Pukeatua in the Waikato. Not far from Cambridge, lies Maungatautari Scenic Reserve, or Sanctuary Mountain, surrounded by one of the longest pest proof fences in the world. It offers sanctuary to populations of birds, bats, frogs, insects, and skinks, with an extensive trapping programme in place. Within this 3,363 hectare forest - a ‘mainland ecological island,’ there are three special enclosures, with perimeter fences - the Northern enclosure, the Southern, and a Tuatara enclosure. There is a charge for access to both the Southern and Tuatara enclosures, payable at the visitor Centre. There are two main entrances to the reserve – Hicks Road at the northern end, and Tari Road at the south. Within the reserve are two peaks…

The Camino walks of Spain have long captured the imagination of pilgrims and casual walkers. For many of us, the time or distance commitment of the full 750-km trek is not possible or practical, but this unique walking tour offers the ideal alternative, blending the highlights of Spain's iconic pilgrimage routes with exceptional food, wine, and cultural exploration. Designed for curious travellers who want to experience the magic of the Camino without a long commitment, this tour combines the best of walking, sightseeing, and indulgence. You'll explore handpicked sections of the Camino Frances, Camino Norte, and the ancient Camino Primitivo—all guided by a local walking guide who brings the history and significance of these trails to life. Instead of weeks of walking, you'll enjoy carefully curated routes that showcase the…

The Puketi Forest Kauri Challenge is an annual fundraising event organised by the Puketi Forest Trust in the Northland, where participants can choose either a full 21km tramp or a shorter 12km tramp through some of the most spectacular parts of Puketi Forest. The route passes through a diverse range of forest types, includes varied terrain and stunning views, and ends with a picnic reception at Forest Pools. This is called a challenge walk for a reason! Some of the walk can be quite tough going and it includes a river crossing and some steep areas, so a good level of fitness and some tramping experience are needed. The Challenge will be held on Saturday 25th January 2025 with a backup date of Sunday 26th January. The organisers say this…

The Waipū Coastal Walkway in Northland offers a breathtaking journey through some of the country's most beautiful and rugged coastal scenery. This 13-kilometer track is a favourite among locals and visitors, blending natural beauty with historical charm. Whether you're a seasoned hikerr or a casual walker looking to soak in New Zealand's unique coastal landscapes, the Waipū Coastal Walkway promises an unforgettable experience. Getting There Waipū, a charming small town with Scottish heritage, lies approximately 90 minutes north of Auckland and just a 30-minute drive south of Whangārei. The walkway starts near Waipū Cove and extends to the beautiful Langs Beach. Parking is available at either end, but many walkers begin at Waipū Cove to enjoy the gradual unfolding of the coastal scenery. What to Expect on the Walkway The…

With more than 4000 parks in Auckland, there are outdoor areas in every corner of the region ready to be explored. The east central suburbs of St Heliers, Remuera, Ōrākei and Stonefields are no exception, with beautiful wetlands, kauri dells, playgrounds and basketball courts that beckon to be part of your next weekend adventure. These three parks might be lesserknown than other spots in the east central suburbs, but they offer treasures worth discovering. Maungarei Springs Wetlands The Maungarei Springs Wetland is an oasis in the middle of one of Auckland's newest suburbs, Stonefields. The park is built on a former quarry site in the lava flows of Maungarei/ Mt Wellington and features boardwalks through wetlands lined by harakeke (flax). Not only is it a pleasant gentle walk, but the…

The first stage of Te Ara Mangawhero, the 21.4km eco-tourism hiking/cycling trail connecting Tūroa and Ohakune on Maunga Ruapehu, has officially opened to the public. Te Ara Mangawhero creates a journey through nature between the alpine environment near Tūroa and the historic Ohakune Old Coach Road and onwards to the Tasman Sea. Weaving along the old Bennett and Punch bush tramway and in and out of the ngāhere, the trail crosses the Mangawhero Stream over a number of bridges, with spectacular views of Maunga Ruapehu. Whanganui District Council Mayor and chair of the Mountains to Sea Partnership, Andrew Tripe, says it's a world-class section, strengthening the Mountains to Sea Great Ride. ‘This partnership between Ngāti Rangi and the local community will provide enduring benefits for both the Ruapehu and Whanganui…

We were lucky enough to visit Rotoroa Island (not to be confused with Rotorua) this November, just a 70-minute ferry ride across the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf - a destination that feels worlds away from the Auckland CBD. It's 100% pest-free and flourishing, making for incredible walking tracks. Whether you're planning a day trip or an overnight stay, Rotoroa Island promises an unforgettable experience. From breathtaking views on walking tracks to secluded beaches, rich history to rare wildlife, here's why Rotoroa Island deserves a top spot on your walks to do this summer. Walking Tracks with a View Rotoroa Island's walking tracks are unlike any other, offering a chance to explore diverse landscapes while soaking up incredible views of the Hauraki Gulf. We started with the Southern Loop,…

The native forest and birdlife of the Hakarimata Range provides the perfect setting for a day out in one of the Waikato region's most beautiful landscapes. Located in the town Ngaruawahia, the ranges include 1,850 hectares of native forest protected in Hakarimata Scenic Reserve. A walk in the reserve will reward you with babbling streams, picturesque waterfalls and impressive views over the surrounding countryside. Hakarimata Waterworks Track & Summit Track If you're looking for a short walk, try the Waterworks Track, in the middle section of the Hakarimata Scenic Reserve. The streamside walk passes through attractive bush on the way to an old dam – perfect for family picnics. Distance 1km return same way. Time one hour. Once you're done, you can return back down the track or venture up…

Travis Wetlands in Christchurch covers 116 hectares, and is surrounded by urban housing on all sides. It only came into existence in 1996 after a long 20 year legal battle to save the wetlands from being developed into urban housing. The result was the Christchurch city council purchasing an additional 60 hectares from Travis Country Estates Ltd and along with volunteers from traviswetland.org.nz developed it into the urban nature heritage park that we have today. There are multiple entry points for the walk, but the main car park is located at Beach Road, along with toilet facilities, a picnic table and an information board. From the information board, it is a short walk to the information centre to learn about restoring the freshwater wetlands, its wildlife and plants. After visiting…

With summer in full swing, the allure of mountain streams and waterfalls plunging down lava flows helps get the togs dusted off for a refreshing dip. Here are five water-loving walks—and a few spots where a good wallow lets you escape the hot summer rays. Aongatete Waterfall | Katikati Flowing over shallow rock pools, this forest-shaded waterfall draws the crowds, but there's plenty of space along the multi-tiered cascade. The dense canopy of Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park provides a picturesque backdrop for picnicking, paddling, and feeding resident tuna/ eels downstream. The trail begins with a rooty dirt path that evens beneath the pūriri and kohekohe forest before descending through kauri groves to the Aongatete Stream. A parallel short nature trail is worth exploring on the return journey. Information: Generally wellgraded…

Walkers can experience Ireland's breathtaking landscapes on their own terms with Hilltoptreks’ self-guided walking tours through the country's most iconic trails. The Wicklow Way, stretching 130km through the “Garden of Ireland,” offers a blend of forest trails, glacial valleys and historical sites. For coastal explorers, the Dingle Way presents a journey along the Wild Atlantic Way with seascapes, beaches and villages steeped in history, music and culture. The Kerry Way is one of Ireland's longest walking routes, circling the scenic Iveragh Peninsula with sweeping views of lakes, mountains and rugged coastlines. What sets these tours apart is Hilltoptreks’ knowledge of the routes and the support to allow visitors to fully embrace the Irish countryside while enjoying the flexibility and independence that self-guided adventures offer. www.hilltoptreks.com/self-guidedwalks-in-ireland info@hilltoptreks.ie…

In the heart of Waikato, the Maungatautari Scenic Reserve offers a lush, peaceful escape into New Zealand's natural beauty. One of the most popular hikes in this area is the walk up to Mt Pukeatua. This trail provides a fantastic opportunity to experience an ancient, predator-free forest filled with thriving native flora and fauna. Whether you're an experienced hiker or someone simply looking for a bit of adventure, this walk is sure to leave you enchanted. Getting to the Trail The Maungatautari Scenic Reserve, located about 30 minutes from Cambridge and an hour from Hamilton, is a protected ecological island, designed to foster native species and shield them from predators. To get there, take Maungatautari Road, which will lead you to the reserve's entrance. From here, you'll find the start…

Wellingtonians are now able to experience Mātiu/ Somes Island in Wellington again, following the successful replacement of the island's 85-year-old wharf last month. Te Whatanui Winiata, Chair of the Kaitiaki Board who administer the island, is pleased the island is now accessible for mana whenua and the public in time for summer. “The kaitiakitanga of the island is paramount,” says Te Whatanui. “Mātiu is a haven in the heart of Te Whanganui a Tara. In addition to this new wharf, there are changes to biosecurity procedures to help protect native species on the island, and continue its pest-free status. Angus Hulme-Moir, DOC Operations Manager for Kapiti-Wellington, says it's critical to keep pests off the islands. “Mātiu/Somes Island is home to nesting populations of kororā and kākāriki, as well as rare…

The northern end of the Te Henga Walkway was officially reopened on November 5 in West Auckland by the Department of Conservation alongside mana whenua Te Kawerau ā Maki. The re-opened 1.8km track starts at the northern end of the original track on Constable Road, south of Muriwai Beach. The 65-minute walk (one way) takes walkers to the new end of the walkway at Tirikohua Point. At the half-way point is a natural viewpoint with stunning views both north and south of the dramatic coastline. The original Te Henga Walkway, which traversed the cliffs from Te Henga/Bethells Beach to Muriwai, suffered enormous damage in the extreme weather events in early 2023. Major sections of the cliffs collapsed which destroyed large sections of the track says DOC Tāmaki Makaurau Operations Manager…

Fiji – The place where most people lie by a pool, to relax and enjoy the warmth, also has a huge interior to explore. A totally different way of life can be found here, with a wealth of walking tracks. Leaving Nadi, we were driven about three hours north east on a good road, to Navai village. Here we received a warm welcome and a vegetarian feast, and spent the evening chatting to our host family. The following morning, with three guides we set off to climb Mt Tomaniivi, the highest peak in Fiji at1,324 meters. The first part of the trail was through farm forest. The villagers can graze animals, and cut trees for building or firewood, replacing them with trees of their choice Most of the mahogany and…

As in earlier times, people today from across cultures continue to celebrate the new year (though at different times), and to set resolutions. Just as ancient civilisations would pray for a rich harvest, resolutions today tend to also project societal values. Contemporary resolutions tend to be more secular than religious or societal in nature. Conceptually, however, new year resolutions continue to capture people's imagination, hopes, and promises for betterment. Even after 4,000 years, the new year continues to symbolise a new threshold. An opportunity for a fresh start. Have you ever made a New Year's resolution? Even if you haven't, you probably know at least a few people who have set a goal for themselves, taking advantage of the fresh start that a new year brings. Special occasions or temporal…