Tucked into the foothills behind Herbert in North Otago, the Staircase Hut Circuit is a challenging full-day or overnight hike through a mix of steep forest, open tussock tops, and rugged ridgelines. It’s one of those tracks that truly lives up to its name — steep, demanding, and full of character — rewarding you with solitude, expansive views, and a genuine backcountry feel.

NZ Hiking Adventures - my Vulva Tried to Kill me but I Walked it off

Sometimes, the simplest trail meals are the best ones. When I’m out hiking, I love a lunch that’s quick to put together, satisfying to eat, and easy to carry — and these Trail Wrap Pizzas tick all the boxes.

Tucked away in the Waianakarua Conservation Park near Herbert, North Otago, the Kahikatea Lodge track is a beautiful short loop that takes you through native bush, open grassy slopes, and into the foothills of the Mount Misery Range. It’s the perfect half-day adventure for those wanting a mix of forest walking, hill climbing, and a quiet backcountry feel without venturing too far from civilisation.

Perched high on the Rock and Pillar Range above Middlemarch, Leaning Lodge Hut is a true high-country gem. It’s a steep but rewarding climb through open tussock and alpine terrain to one of Otago’s most iconic backcountry huts — complete with its famous “loo with a view.”

A new year always feels like a fresh trailhead—full of possibility, potential, and the unknown. As I step into 2026, I’m carrying the lessons of the past year, the strength I’ve gained through recovery, and a renewed sense of purpose for what comes next.

Summer hiking in New Zealand is one of the best ways to explore — long daylight hours, alpine flowers in bloom, and crystal-clear rivers to cool off in. But while the days might look perfect, summer conditions can still catch you out. Intense UV, sudden weather changes, and dehydration are all part of the mix.

There’s something special about heading into the high country — that sense of wide-open space, golden tussocks, and the steady rhythm of boots on a farm track. The walk to Otamatapaio Hut, tucked beneath the Hawkdun Range, captures all of that and more — quiet solitude, big sky, and the subtle beauty of Central Otago’s backcountry.

When it comes to hiking, food isn’t just about satisfying hunger — it’s about fueling your body for the effort ahead. Whether you’re heading out for a gentle 10 km stroll around a lake or a steep, rocky climb that takes most of the day, your food choices can make the difference between finishing strong or feeling flat halfway through.

The half-day hike to Baikie Hut in the Ruataniwha Conservation Park, near Lake Pukaki, packs in plenty of variety.

2025 will always be the year that changed me. A year marked by fear and uncertainty, but also resilience, mountains, and a newfound determination to keep moving forward — one track, one hut, one step at a time.

After a long day on the trail, there’s nothing quite like sitting down, boots off, watching the light fade over the hills — and tucking into something warm, comforting, and ridiculously easy to make.

Rising above the Mackenzie Basin, Ben Ohau is a commanding peak that offers sweeping views over Lake Ōhau and beyond.

Journey with me through the rugged beauty of Kahurangi National Park on a six-day adventure covering 68 km, four alpine saddles, and a visit to one of the most remote huts in the country.

Hidden in the Canterbury high country, Lake Ida and Lake Catherine are two alpine lakes that make for a stunning day hike.

If you spend time in the outdoors, you know how much the small pieces of gear can make the biggest difference. Trail Cloth was created with one goal in mind: to make hygiene on the trail easier, cleaner, and more comfortable — especially for women who want a reliable, reusable option they can trust in any environment.

If you’re looking for a short but rewarding adventure close to Christchurch, Omahu Bush and Gibraltar Rock are a perfect mix of views, forest, and history. With two nearby car parks along Summit Road—one for Gibraltar Rock and another smaller one about 100 metres away for Omahu Bush—it’s easy to link the two into a full day of exploring.

Cedar Flat Hut is one of those West Coast classics: wild rivers, deep bush, cosy huts, and even natural hot pools. It’s the perfect overnight hike for those wanting a taste of backcountry adventure without venturing too far from Hokitika.

The Hakatere Conservation Park is full of hidden gems, and one of the lesser-known day hikes takes you up to Erewhon Hut. Tucked away in the upper reaches of the Rangitata area, this short but rewarding walk gives you a taste of Canterbury high country history, sweeping views, and a glimpse into a unique chapter of New Zealand skiing.

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.