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Hand-reared kākāpō chick investigates DOC’s Penny Nelson
New Zealand is a world-famous walking destination and for good reason. We are home to rich, diverse and stunning scenery, and also a fantastic recreation network of tracks, huts and campsites.
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I feel incredibly privileged Department of Conservation, to be leading work to protect our natural and cultural heritage and to get people out there enjoying it.
Walking in nature, particularly with friends and family, is an essential part of my life. Doing this benefits my health and well-being immensely and also deepens my connection to Aotearoa – our wildlife, history and landscapes. It’s such a pleasure to see that this love of nature has been passed on to my children. They tell me the tramps we did as a young family have led to their longterm love of the outdoors.
What a treat it would be to knock off all the fantastic walks listed in this guide. There are some absolute gems here that demonstrate, not just the wealth of natural beauty out there but also our rich history and significant cultural heritage.
My advice to anyone lucky enough to be heading out on these walks would be to plan and prepare well, check weather and track conditions before heading out, pack plenty of warm clothes, food and water, share your plans and take ways to get help. Importantly take time to be present and reconnect with the natural world.
