If you spend enough time in the New Zealand backcountry, you know there’s no such thing as too much comfort — especially when it comes to toilet breaks on the trail. Enter Trail Cloth.

The Lake Sumner area has long been a favourite of trampers who enjoy rustic huts, wild valleys, and classic Canterbury scenery. On this trip I set out to complete the Jolliebrook Circuit, with the intention for an extra detour to bag Cold Stream Hut—a tucked-away little gem up a side valley.

When you’re deep in the New Zealand backcountry, you learn to appreciate the simple things — a dry pair of socks, a sturdy hut, and small bits of gear that just work. Trail Cloth is one of those small but mighty essentials that changes the way you move through the wild.

Pinchgut Hut is a Canterbury classic—an easy-to-reach backcountry hut that draws hunters, families, and hikers alike. With multiple access points, it offers flexibility depending on how adventurous you’re feeling. On this trip, I started from the Ashley, at the Round Hill Stream end.

Tucked away in the tussock basins inland from Fairlie in the Mackenzie District, Spurs Hut is a lovely spot for an easy day hike, family adventure, or overnight stay. With its straightforward access and gentle terrain, it’s no wonder the hut is popular with hunters and families alike.

Tucked deep in the Kokatahi Valley on the West Coast, Boo Boo Hut offers a fantastic backcountry adventure filled with history, rugged gorge scenery, and the opportunity to ascend higher into the peaks for some serious hut and peak bagging.

Nestled in the breathtaking Southern Alps in Ruataniwha Conservation Park, Maitland Hut stands as a charming retreat for adventurers seeking solace in nature.

Arthur’s Pass National Park, located in Canterbury, is known for its dramatic mountain landscapes. This hiking journey takes an off-track route deep into the Hawdon Valley to reach East Hawdon Biv, a two‑bunk hut.

Embark on an unforgettable outdoor adventure as I explore the challenging Pell Stream Track that begins at Marble Hill Camp Ground, nestled along the scenic Lewis Pass Highway between Canterbury and the West Coast.

Poulter River Valley adventure in Arthur's Pass National Park

I had been meaning to tackle this part of the Te Araroa trail for some time, so I jumped at the chance to do it in early September.

I am an experienced hiker with 15 active years, but I had never done a solo overnight hike until now. It feels incredibly satisfying.

Oteake Conservation Area is a vast, rugged, mountainous wilderness area in the central South Island of New Zealand.

he journey to the hut is an adventure in itself, passing through stunning scenery and offers breathtaking views of the Canterbury Plains.

Pinnacles Hut offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. A popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

If you're looking for a challenging hike with breathtaking views, Buckland Peaks near Westport is the perfect destination. This stunning...

Venture beyond the bustling Mt Fyffe track with this challenging two to three day circuit and be rewarded with stunning sunrises and two boulder strewn rivers.

With the weekend weather forecast clear, dry but some wind our group headed to North Canterbury to complete the Tarn Hut and Youngman Stream

When the weather is great on the West Coast you have to make the most of it, and this was the third time we had attempted to complete the Klondyke Tracks.

The Lewis Pass Tops is an incredible place to explore, with expansive views and tarns dotted along to tops you are never short of distractions.