The Finest Milford Track: A Wet and Bumpy Milford Track
The Finest Milford Track: A Wet and Bumpy Milford Track Published: December 4, 2025 By Rafick ‘You must be Rafick,’ said Ian, after I asked him whether he was Ian. We were in the kitchen building, about 5 minutes after Sarah and I reached Dumpling Hut on Day 4 of our Milford Track. We still […]
Best Hiking Boots Guide 2025–2026 : Top Picks for Worldwide Adventures
Best Hiking Boots 2025-2026 Guide: Top Picks for Worldwide Adventures Published: November 15, 2025 By Rafick TL;DR: Quick Picks by Adventure Style 🏃 Lightweight Winner Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Fast hiking, exceptional traction, very light on the feet. 🥾 All-Arounder Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Gold standard for global treks and classic Great Walks. […]
Best Rain Jackets For New Zealand Great Walks
Best Rain Jackets for NZ Great Walks: Top Picks for 2026 Published: November 15, 2025 By Rafick TL;DR: Quick Picks for Every Budget BEST OVERALL Arc’Teryx Covert 1/2 Zip Neck Women’s Durable and highly water-resistant for multi-day Great Walks. BEST VALUE Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket Ultralight, packs down small, surprising performance for Fiordland. FIORDLAND […]
How To Pack Your Backpack For Great Walks
How to Pack a Backpack for Great Walks By Rafick – Published Nov 14 2025 TL;DR: Quick Packing Guide for Great Walks Bottom zone: Sleeping bag and light gear you won’t need until camp. Middle zone: Heavy items (food, stove, water) packed close to your back between shoulder blades. Top zone: Rain jacket, insulating layers, […]
The 9 Secrets of a Long and Happy Life
The 9 Secrets of a Long and Happy Life (Backed by Science & Blue Zones Wisdom) By Rafick • Published Nov 03 2025 TL;DR: Lifelong Happiness in 9 Simple Steps Find purpose—have a reason to get up each day. Eat mostly plants, beans, and whole foods. Move often; exercise joyfully, not just out of obligation. […]
Every Trail Tells a Story: Finding Freedom in the Simple Act of Walking
Every Trail Tells a Story: Finding Freedom in the Simple Act of Walking By Rafick • Published Nov 01 2025 Walking the trail of wonder: freedom in each step. In a world that constantly urges us to rush, achieve, and acquire, there’s a quiet rebellion to be found in the simple act of walking. Every […]
Why You Should Hike All 11 Great Walks — A Personal Challenge
Why You Should Hike All 11 Great Walks — A Personal Challenge New Zealand, Aotearoa, the land of the long white cloud. It’s a country synonymous with stunning natural beauty, from its towering mountains to its pristine coastlines. And what better way to experience this beauty than by embarking on a hiking adventure? New Zealand’s […]
Eco-Friendly Hiking: Reducing Waste on Great Walks
Eco-Friendly Hiking: Reducing Waste on Great Walks Hiking offers a fantastic way to connect with nature, but it’s essential to minimize our environmental impact while enjoying the great outdoors. One crucial aspect of responsible hiking is reducing waste. This article explores practical strategies for eco-friendly hiking, focusing on minimizing waste and leaving no trace behind. […]
How to Manage Gear Storage While on the Trail
How to Manage Gear Storage While on the Trail Efficient gear storage is crucial for a comfortable and safe hiking experience. Proper organization not only saves space and weight but also ensures that essential items are readily accessible when needed. This guide provides practical tips and techniques for effectively managing your gear storage while on […]
Pre- and Post-Walk Stays for New Zealand Great Walks: Best Towns to Base Yourself
Pre- and Post-Walk Stays for New Zealand Great Walks: Best Towns to Base Yourself Embarking on a New Zealand Great Walk is an unforgettable experience, immersing you in some of the world’s most stunning landscapes. To make the most of your adventure, planning your pre- and post-walk accommodation is essential. Choosing the right base town […]
Packing for Flights and Ferries with Hiking Gear
Packing for Flights and Ferries with Hiking Gear: A Comprehensive Guide Traveling with hiking gear can seem daunting, especially when flights and ferries are involved. This guide provides practical tips and advice to ensure your equipment arrives safely and you’re ready to hit the trails as soon as you reach your destination. Planning and Preparation […]
Budgeting a Great Walk: Typical Costs & Where You Can Save
Budgeting a Great Walk: Typical Costs & Where You Can Save Embarking on a multi-day hike, or “Great Walk,” is an incredible experience. Immersing yourself in nature, challenging your body, and disconnecting from the everyday world can be transformative. However, planning a Great Walk also involves practical considerations, and a major one is budgeting. The […]