ECHO Walking Festival 2023 the biggest ever!

The Echo Walking Festival is celebrating its 20th-anniversary milestone this year. The much-anticipated festival promotes outdoor walks and activities for all abilities.

It’s gone from strength to strength over the decades, as its offering has grown substantially with walks increasing three-fold since the festival’s origins.

The festival aims to encourage all New Zealanders to enjoy the beautiful outdoors, appreciate the attractions of our region, and keep fit and active.

It celebrates the many walks from the northern Coromandel, right through to the Kaimai’s, plus has expanded to include a scenic bike ride to the Owharoa Falls and a guided kayak tour to Whenuakura Island as well.

Above: A sea view on the Onekawa Trig Walk. Below: This is what you will see on the Waiorongomai Wander walk.

With 32 guided tours scheduled between 1st - 16th April 2023, this is the biggest ECHO Walking Festival yet. The festival presents an opportunity to explore new tracks as a group led by a guide who knows the area and has good knowledge of its history.

Explore New Zealand’s backyard and learn about our local history. Hike across hills, discover pools and waterfalls, and enjoy our local bush and beaches.

From an hour’s walk to fullday tramps, there’s something for everyone and every fitness level. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll around the historic Thames mining sites, an adventure on Major Island, discovering the glow worms in the dark, or working up a sweat as you make your way up the Orokawa Trig site, the festival showcases some of the best trails in the region.

The region has an abundance of natural forestry, bushland, and coastal scenery, which is sure to impress. The stunning views are illustrated by the annual photography competition that’s viewable on the website - www.echowalkfest.org.nz/ photo-competition/

It’s a great opportunity to socialise with those with similar interests, lo- cals, and visitors alike, and to share a memorable experience with friends and family.Some walks that require transport have limited numbers.

The calendar of walks and registration is available at www.echowalkfest. org.nz/events/ Registration is essential for all tours.