Adventure Magazine

adventure
where actions speak louder than words
ISSUE 230
FEB/MAR 2022
NZ $10.90 incl. GST
welcome
20
22

Sleep in,
when you’re out.
NEW & IMPROVED SLEEPING BAG RANGE
AN ENDURING DESIGN PHILOSOPHY
– UPDATED FOR MODERN ADVENTURERS
This summer we have refreshed our sleeping bag range to introduce
new fabrics and fill, and to consolidate details like shape and fit.
We’ve also filled a few gaps to cater to a broader spectrum of users.
You’ll notice exciting additions like a lightweight range (including
the zipperless Firefly 200), as well as a better-rounded synthetic
offering. Tested out in the field by our ambassadors, we’re proud to
present a range that is stronger than ever.
UPDATED SIZES AND SHAPES
We’ve simplified sleeping bag sizes and shapes across the range so
it’s easier to find the perfect bag for your adventure. More bags in
the range come in a women’s specific fit where the insulation is redistributed
across the top to provide better warmth.
SOME OF THE NEW FEATURES INCLUDE
• Wear-and-walk footbox
• Zipperless option
RESPONSIBLE MATERIALS
Our commitment to designing better is reflected throughout the
range. Our most technical down sleeping bags feature recycled
nylon outers, and Pertex ® Y Fuse technology increases performance
and durability without increasing weight. The new synthetic bags
are filled with 100% recycled polyester insulation, and across the
board we’ve added more bluesign ® certified fabrics too.
• Sleeping mat attachments
• Internal pockets
• Climbing tie-in
From experienced mountaineers to first time campers, we’ve got the perfect sleeping bag for you.

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DRAGONFLY 400/600
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AZURE 500/700
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ESCAPADE 150/350/500/700
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SYNTHETIC
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SCAN ME!
Learn more about each bag’s
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equipment designers.
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#FORTHEADVENTURE

The first issue of 2022
equip
yourself!
2022 stretches out before us but it’s a road with a lot more turns and a few
blind corners than we are used to. Life used to be so much more straight
forward. You could plan to travel, to go to events and do activities but now
there is a shadow cast by the last two years. It’s not a case of ‘no you can’t
plan anything’, but we have all got used to the uncertainty that possibly Delta,
Omicron or a zombie apocalypse will arrive and turn those plans upside down.
But I do believe that there is value in the lack of certainty. Possibly, it makes us
all a little more spontaneous. We are hesitant to book that ski trip to Canada in
six months’ time, but we can make plans three weeks out to fly to Queenstown
or visit the smaller club fields on a whim, our focus is more short term and with
those short-term plans comes spontaneity.
It is only our generation that got used to flying to Fiji fishing for the weekend
or booking surf trips to Australia as a big swell approached. Now with those
destinations that require more planning, that are more exposed and are at risk
to the winds of change you can see people investing in that which they can
control and that’s what’s local.
Hopefully, 2022 will see the end of the covid reign and fingers crossed we can
return to a more structured, planned way of life. But if not, if that specter still
looms then we should count all our blessing and celebrate, in that we live is
such an amazing country with so much to offer.
Every issue of Adventure is full cover to cover with places to go, things to
see and activities to do. Don’t hold your breath in 2022, waiting for Covid to
vanish and our boarders to swing wide, because they might not. And if you are
uncertain about planning then invest in spontaneity. Be ready to try that new
activity, visits that new place or simply be prepared to enjoy something… just
on a whim.
Steve Dickinson - Editor
Low Prices Everyday
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page 12
#230
contents
Image compliments Bike it Now! Self portrait
Image by David Nogales Tarragó
page 22
page 54
12//A Land of Fire and Ice
kayaking in Iceland
22//Scree Slope from Hell
descent into Crow Valley
30//From Sea to Shining Sea
an American journey
34//Eileen Gu
finding the balance
38//Whakapapaiti Valley Track
what a difference a day makes
46//The Longest Fishing Adventure Ever
80 days straight
50//K2 in Winter
making history
54//Central Otago
cycle trails
58//Ghost Diving NZ
cleaning up Fiordland
62//Legendary Mackenzie
your 2022 adventure bucket list
86//Island Escapes
Rarotonga
Vanuatu
plus
72. gear guides
96. active adventure
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23 Locations Nationwide | www.radcarhire.co.nz | 0800 73 68 23 | adventure@radcarhire.co.nz
04//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

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BEHIND THE COVER
Kiwi, Rod Hill’s image of kayaker River Mutton
bursting through a rapid at Huka Falls, New
Zealand, was voted the category winner by the
panel of Red Bull Illume judges amid strong
competition. It’s a magical moment for the
photographer.
“This shot was not supposed to happen. River
Mutton was supposed to leave for work but
decided on one last run. I had already packed
my gear away by the time they walked back
up from the take-out point. Once they decided
being late to work was worth it, it was a mad
rush back down the river with my camera. I
didn't have time to get to my normal spot, so
instead I tried this angle. All of a sudden, the
light popped like I had never seen before.
Straight away I knew this was going to work.”
The shot of this bursting kayaker wins the Energy by Red Bull Photography category.
© Rod Hill / Red Bull Illume
It is the first time the amateur photographer,
a chemistry teacher from Rotorua, has been
selected in Red Bull Illume. Hill has been
passionate about photography for many years
on his skiing, surfing and climbing adventures
and expeditions.
EDITOR & ADVERTISING MANAGER
Steve Dickinson
Mob: 027 577 5014
steve@pacificmedia.co.nz
NEW 350M HIGH WATERFALL ADVENTURE IN WĀNAKA
ART DIRECTOR
Lynne Dickinson
design@pacificmedia.co.nz
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PUBLISHERS
NZ Adventure Magazine is published six times a year by:
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Contributions of articles and photos are welcome and must be accompanied by a stamped selfaddressed
envelope. Photographic material should be on slide, although good quality prints may
be considered. All care is taken but no responsibility accepted for submitted material. All work
published may be used on our website. Material in this publication may not be reproduced without
permission. While the publishers have taken all reasonable precautions and made all reasonable
effort to ensure the accuracy of material in this publication, it is a condition of purchase of
this magazine that the publisher does not assume any responsibility or liability for loss or
damage which may result from any inaccuracy or omission in this publication, or from the use of
information contained herein and the publishers make no warranties, expressed or implied, with
respect to any of the material contained herein.
Adventure Magazine
Whereever we go,
our preferred car
hire is...
Award winning Wānaka based tourism operator Wildwire is adding to their already
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There are two options for an easier or full-adrenaline adventure which will see people
harness up, don a helmet and wetsuit to make their way down fixed ropes that are set
amongst a series of waterfalls, with some up to 65metres high! Adventurers, taking
on the full canyon are also transported, in true kiwi style, to the top of the falls by
helicopter. To find out more visit www.wildwire.co.nz
World Class Indoor Climbing
First visit $25* then free for a week!
Fantastic community, beginners
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* Discounts for youths and own gear
Student Mondays, entry $15
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@northernrocks.climbing
Unit 17, 101-111 Diana Drive,
Wairau Valley, Auckland | 09 278 2363
“Northern Rocks is an indoor bouldering facility, we
foster community, growth and positive experiences for
people of all backgrounds, ages and abilities.”

we ARE tramping
Adelaide Tarn
Kahurangi National Park
Photo: Mark Watson
Whether it’s a day trip with the family or a multi-day adventure deep into the wilderness, Bivouac has the best
gear, from the top brands, to keep you safe, comfortable, warm and dry. Our friendly staff are happy to provide
expert advice, ensuring you get the right equipment and the right fit. If you need it for tramping, we have it,
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Supporting Aotearoa's Backcountry Heritage
STORES NATIONWIDE
www.bivouac.co.nz

70,000 followers can't be wrong
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08//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

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ICELAND
*

a land of
FIRE AND
Red Bull
ICECompliments
Images David Nogales Tarragó
Aniol Serrasolses is used to putting
his whitewater kayaking skills to the
test in stunning locations such as
Costa Rica's Águas Bravas and the
Villarrica volcano in Chile, which
has appeared in Adventure last year.
However, he took it to another level
with an epic voyage of discovery
into the wild heart of Iceland.

The land of fire and ice is home to some of the most
challenging whitewater rapids and waterfalls in the world. Most
are still unknown due to the almost inaccessible nature of the
rivers. Serrasolses spent three weeks hiking the unforgiving
terrain with a kayak on his back. Together with his team, they
again pushed themselves to the limits to try and produce
something extraordinary in their dream expedition.
Serrasolses, 30, said: "For me, waterfalls have always been
the most entertaining side of kayaking. They scare me the
most, but at the same time, they provide some of the strongest
sensations I've ever felt. Being in the air, flying off a waterfall.
The adrenaline and the fear right before and overcoming all
mental obstacles to do it and do it right. It's an exciting and
gratifying process."
And the result of trying to navigate previously unexplored
rivers? A trip that required a lot of improvisation & agility to
navigate unforeseen events, with a backdrop of spectacular
scenery and images that will travel around the world.
Sarasola, 34, said: "It's in nature and in the rivers where we
are ourselves and feel fulfilled. I cannot think of a better place
than Iceland to start over again after such a difficult year."
Spaniard Serrasolses made a global name for himself with
his previous dangerous projects down perilous flooded rivers
in Portugal back in 2018 and over a 25-kilometre descent
in Chile. His Chile project earlier in 202, which has already
appeared in Adventure Magazine, saw him perform a unique
kayak descent over snow-capped volcanoes, finishing up in
the river with a double kickflip, a manoeuvre never achieved
in this sport, and that would secure him the Top Male Rider
Award at the White Water Awards 2021.
Previous page: Aniol Serrassolses paddling in the Jokulsarlon
Glacier, Iceland on June 2021
Above: Aniol Serrassolses, Mikel Sarasola and Aleix Salvat carrying
their kayaks in Fellsa river, Iceland
Top Right: Aniol droping a waterfall for the Jotunn project in
Kaldakvisl river, Iceland
Bottom Right: Aniol carrying his kayak in Aldeyjarfoss, Iceland,
waterfall in background his destination, see him take the drop on the
following page
Following page: Aniol takes the drop in Aldeyjarfoss, Iceland
14//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//15

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ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//17

David Nogales Tarragó, the photographer on this trip...
“Aniol talked to me and proposed that I join his project
in Iceland with Mikel and Aleix. I haven't shot any river
sports before and didn't really know about them apart
from social media, but I've always been passionate
about the plasticity of kayaking and I think there's no
better way to get introduced to the whitewater than a
Red Bull project that was focused on the exploration
of new rivers and running waterfalls in Iceland, so I
accepted without hesitation. We struggled finding the
right river flows during the first days and scouted many
places without any success. We travelled all around
the island, the team knew some famous runnable
spots but the main purpose of the project was to find
first descents, we headed to the famous Studlagil
canyon to visit the place and realised one nearby
tributary river had some potential for whitewater
kayaking. We spent the night close to the spot and
the next day hiked for several hours up the put in of
the river. The run worked pretty well and there was
this waterfall at the end after a really close seal launch
move (sliding from the rock) that gave no time to react.
On spots of this kind it is a one chance shot, because
it is definitely too aggressive to repeat it many times,
so you have to make sure you don't miss the shot.
While Aniol was getting ready I already had the shot
on my mind and started testing settings and frames so
there's no place for mistakes once he's dropping.”
Right: Aniol Serrassolses droping a waterfall in Studlahil,
Iceland
Following page: Aniol Serrasolses on a sequence of 3
consecutive waterfalls in the Keldus river in Iceland
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ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//19

ARTHURS PASS
*
Descent into Crow Valley
SCREE SLOPE
FROM HELL
By Eric Skilling
22//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

We knew the first leg of the overnight trip to Crow Hut in Arthurs Pass National Park
was going to be a challenging day. We mistakenly believed the 1.1km climb to the top
of Avalanche Peak (1833m) would be the pinnacle of the day. How wrong we were. The
700-metre descent off the ridges approaching Mt Rolleston and down the scree slope to
Crow Valley will go down as one of the most demoralising, exhausting and gut-busting
tramping experiences I have endured in a long, long time.
Even though it was January with its long daylight hours, we had agreed to an early start.
So, the shadows were long as the team stepped into the shady mountain beech forest with
just a hint of a cool morning breeze. Morale was high. There was even banter. Absolutely
no hint of the battered and bruised bodies that would collapse next to the Crow River some
8-hours later.
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//23

Scott’s track up to Avalanche Peak is a steep and rocky but
easily accessible path from Arthurs Pass village. Rising the
1.1km over 2.5km, this is no walk in the park especially with an
overnight pack on your back. But it also offers plenty to enjoy as
you try to keep your heart rate in check.
Within the first half-hour you get to take in priceless views
eastwards to the Temple Basin ski field and the ice-splattered
summits of Stuart, Phipps and Blimit, all over 1900m. Behind
us Arthurs Pass village became more and more like a miniature
kitset as we climbed. Kea were calling across to each other
as they searched for breakfast amongst the trees and shrubs.
The sound of water cascading down the 130 metre Devils
Punchbowl waterfall across the valley ebbed and flowed for the
first hour or so, muted by the trees, the distance and the breeze.
At 1300 metres we emerged out of the bush-line and onto a
tussock covered ridge littered with flowering Mount Cook Lily,
daisies and other alpine plants, and wide vistas from Otira to
Waimakariri. The dark jagged rocks of Mt Rolleston (2275m)
began to dominate the horizon to the north-west.
There are plenty of false tops to clamber over before the path
became massive ice-shattered greywacke boulders, and later
became the crumbly, black argillite which covers the summit.
Despite the warnings about the steep drop-offs along the path
even the most cautious in our party conquered these with ease,
although I admit they could cause some issues in high winds
and rain. It had taken us less than four hours to conquer the
peak and in perfect time and perfect place to enjoy some wellearned
lunch as well as the reward of some 6-star scenery.
Southwards and way below the Crow River courses its way
down a steep, well forested valley scarred with rockslides.
Further south we got a glimpse of the Waimakariri with its
spectacularly flat and wide steep-sided glacial valley. To the
north and east are full views of the Arthurs Pass peaks, Otira
Gorge and the very thin, fragile looking strip of State Highway
73 making its precarious way to Greymouth and the West
Coast.
Northwest, the skyline is dominated by the jagged, black rock
of Mt Rolleston rising another 450 metres above us, it’s lower
faces softened by the bright white of the Crow and Rolleston
glaciers. Fine silver ribbons marked streams of ice-melt
plummeting off the bluffs, making their way to become the Crow
River. We had no idea how much we would get to enjoy gulping
down those icy-cold ancient waters later that afternoon when we
eventually reached the Crow River.
Our leaders had given us plenty of advice about choosing the
right scree slope to descend. We were given dire warnings of
deadly bluffs and the risk of serious and sometimes fatal injuries
for those who get it wrong. Fortunately, we had great visibility,
light winds and plenty of time. There was also still a bit of that
buzz in the group after reaching the summit.
Spirits were high as we scrambled down a small scree slope to
the south of the peak, just as the day began to warm up. From
here the trail followed the ridge NNW towards Mt Rolleston. A
shout-out is due to those people who gathered all those rocks
and made up the arrows pointing along the ridge – reassuring
us we were not lost. On our left and several hundred metres
below, we noticed the tiny red roof of Crow Hut sitting in a
clearing alongside the river. I remember thinking the site looked
like an ideal spot for pitching a tent later that evening.
After what seemed like an age, we had covered the 1.5km from
Avalanche Peak and were staring down the 700-metre scree
slope, with no idea that it was to become our temporary little
Previous Page: Our party of 7 on Avalanche Peak, Mt Rolleston in the backgound.
Above: Reaching for the top as the day started to warm up.
Right: Emerging from the treeline on Scotts Track with Otira gorge in the distance.
24//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

26//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

hell for the next hour-and-quite-a-bit.
We ticked off all the pointers to mark the
beginning of the descent: the scree slope
slid all the way to the valley floor, the full
Devils Punchbowl falls visible behind us
and a steep ridge to Mt Rolleston on our
right, and we were at 1658m- Tick.
For some reason we all seemed reluctant
to start. Perhaps some primeval instinct
was warning us against this venture. It
just didn’t look that easy. With technique
fresh in my mind – pole out, lean slightly
forward, and dig the heels in, I stepped off
onto the loose fist-sized rocks.
Within seconds I was losing control. This
was no scoria mound of Mt Ngauruhoe
or the slightly more difficult Mt Taranaki,
where one step can send you over a
metre down the slope. Instead of the
rounded stones of the volcanoes, these
were ice-shattered rocks ranging in size
from dust to boulders over a metre long,
all with flat faces and sharp edges. Most
of the rocks on the surface were fist sized
but hidden underneath the surface were
larger flat rocks which acted like loose
platforms for the smaller rocks to slide
randomly, leaving you to guess how far
each step would take you.
Every step was a series of uncontrolled,
unpredictable slides and recoveries.
Behind me I could hear others following
tentatively, so I felt the need to keep
going. Within a few minutes our energetic
leader slipped, staggered and skidded
past me, clearly with very little respect
for his well-being. Half an hour later, after
uncountable near falls and recoveries,
I had to stop. I was exhausted. My abs
and shoulders ached from the tension of
endless, continuous bracing, waiting for
a slip to become a fall onto those jagged
rocks. My mouth and eyes were full of fine
dust and the temperature seemed to have
risen another 10 degrees as the overhead
sun beat down on us, radiating heat off
the scree slope and onto sun-burnt faces.
Swivelling around, I had the crushing
realisation that the top was still a lot
closer than the valley floor. I slumped

down, pulled out my water bottle and
emptied what little was left. I gave
myself a little pep talk and stood up,
slid sideways, toppled forward onto
the rocks, rolled over on my pack,
back onto my chest and slid another
few feet down the slope. I lay there
for a few seconds. Bit of pain in my
forearm and shin, otherwise intact.
Phew! I dragged away the rocks that
had slid over my walking pole and
hoped some witness had at least
enjoyed a laugh.
An hour-and-a-half later, seven
sweaty, sunburnt, stiff and sore
trampers were sitting next to the
Crow River, having guzzled serious
quantities of icy-cold water from the
glacial stream. One broken walking
pole but otherwise all largely intact.
Amazing.
After making our way, jelly-legs and
all, over more but larger boulders
along the valley floor, we filed into the
hut. Pitching a tent was as likely as
finding a working espresso machine
and a barista waiting in the dunny. It
had taken us nearly 9 hours to cover
less than 13km. And the effort was
clear to see.
Then came the next challenge –
trying to stay awake long enough for
the light to fade. We lost that battle.
After finishing one of the tastiest
Backcountry Venison Risotto’s ever
made, I made short work of the Apple
Pie I keep in reserve, but even a
coffee couldn’t keep me awake. But
hey, this is the Southern Alps, the
summer solstice was a few weeks
past, and the sun does set a little later
in the day here…. doesn’t it?
Next day we made our way to
Klondyke corner, negotiating the
various braids of the Waimakariri
more times than we intended but
arrived back in Arthurs Pass feeling
like we had done good – challenged
ourselves, and enjoyed another
memorable experience in the
company of good people.
Previous Page: Heads down, poles out as we negotiated
the dreaded scree slope to the Crow Valley (Photo: Colin).
Top: We had the very comfortable Crow Hut to ourselves that
evening.
Inserts: Crossing the clear waters of the Crow river on day 2.
A tranquil lunch stop next to the Waimakariri on our way out
(Photo:Ilva)
Bealey is the ideal location to enjoy easy access to all the natural attractions of the Arthur’s Pass National Park, with its flora and fauna, mountain tramps and walks, and the
recreational pursuits of the high country including skiing, snow boarding, biking, fishing and boating. All these outdoor activities can be enjoyed without sacrificing the comforts
and luxuries of accommodation, food and hospitality by staying at the 4-star Bealey Hotel.
a: 12858 West Coast Road, (SH73) | e: stay@thebealeyhotel.com | p: +64 3 318 9277 | www.thebealeyhotel.com

The Old Nurses Home
Guesthouse
Welcome to The Old Nurses Home Guesthouse
This historic renovated building, has large picturesque and peaceful grounds with off-street parking, centrally
heated accommodation with single/twin/double/queen rooms (bed linen, duvets and towels supplied). One bedroom
apartments are also available with a minimum 2 night stay. There is a large communal kitchen with a dining and
lounge area, a conference room and four large shared bathrooms. Free wireless Wi-Fi and complimentary tea and
coffee is available.
Situated within the town of Reefton and with easy walking access to the town centre, we offer a wonderfully quiet
place to stay. Enjoy the stunning Victoria Conservation Park with access to outstanding bush walks, historic mining
sites, walking distance to the famous Inangahua River and some of the best fishing for trout in NZ. White water raft or
kayak the exciting rivers in the area. Explore the myriad of challenging 4WD tracks in the hills. For mountain bikers
there are a number of bike tracks located in the Reefton area. Reefton offers a perfect base for MTB riders to explore
The Old Ghost Road from Lyell through the ranges to Seddonville on the West Coast.
We are located just 40 minutes from the Lyell where we offer undercover, secure storage for your bikes and bike
servicing is available in the town. Reefton offers visitors many activities, if you are seeking a relaxing weekend
or perhaps a true West Coast adventure The Old Nurses Home Guesthouse is the perfect place to stay in Reefton.
Approximate travelling times: Christchurch 3 hours, Hanmer Springs 1.5 hours, Nelson 2.45 hours, Westport 1 hour,
Karamea 2.5 hours, Greymouth 1 hour, Franz Josef 3.5 hours, Picton 4 hours, Lyell 40 mins.
www.reeftonaccommodation.co.nz
+6437328881
info@reeftonaccommodation.co.nz

USA
* *
FROM SEA TO
SHINING SEA
an American journey
His name is Neal Moore. He is a storyteller and a paddler, and an adventurer. He undertook a
remarkable journey of over 7,500 river and portage miles (that’s 12070.08 km) from the Columbia
River in Oregon on the West Coast of America, all the way to New York City on the East Coast.
To give it an antipodean comparison that is like paddling across the width of Australia three times,
back to back!
It took 2 years, traversing 22 rivers and waterways, touching 22 states and stopping off in over
100 towns. We caught up Neal, - and asked the interesting hard questions about his epic
adventure! This is his story!
When did this idea come to mind
– what started you out on this
journey? I got the idea to connect
rivers during my 2009 descent of the
Mississippi River. The person who
introduced me to the concept was
the great paddler Dick Conant. We
paddled on and off together – he
was connecting rivers from near the
headwaters of the Mississippi all
the way to Norfolk, Virginia. In the
years afterwards, I based overseas
in Africa and East Asia, I unfurled
the map across the table and in my
mind, coming up with my own point A
and point B – with the exciting idea to
travel from coast to coast, from sea to
shining sea.
Was the trip continuous or was
there breaks between rivers? The
journey was continuous, following the
seasons. I spent different amounts
of time in various towns and cities.
Sometimes it’d be an afternoon
and sometimes a couple of days.
In Demopolis, Alabama, along the
Tombigbee, I spent an entire month,
waiting out two sets of twisters and
severe flooding to push through.
If you could state one objective
of the trip what would it be? The
number one priority, or goal, was
to explore connections between a
nation often divided by race, class,
and political stripe. Unfiltered,
unadulterated, raw and exposed
and real. But then, to paddle into the
pandemic was a surprise.
I read that you had spent a lot of
your life outside of America – was
that motivation to see so much
of the country by canoe? After the
better part of a lifetime abroad, where
one explores the idea of that perfect
destination with fellow travelers from
all over the show, the epiphany hit
me hard and strong. What if the
greatest adventure of my life was in
my own backyard? To explore my
home country slow and low down and
personal from the view of a canoe.
What type of Canoe?
Old Town Penobscot 16 foot Royalex
(16RX)
.
How much of the timing of the trip
was based around the weather I
guess you needed to be aware of
freezing cold and hurricanes? Yes,
the route was designed to follow the
seasons and to miss the hurricane
season in the gulf.
I read there was almost a tornado
issue – can you tell us more about
that? There was quite a bit of severe
weather. Coming down the Missouri
near Bismarck, North Dakota, I took
cover as a severe storm blew over. It
downed half the cottonwood trees in
the park where I’d made camp and
took the roof off a nearby farmhouse.
Above left: Neal Moore in his canoe
Above right: The highlight of the trip was seeing the beacon hand of the Statue of Liberty in NY Harbour
Right: Laden for a two year adventure
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ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//31

Later, along the Missouri, I found
myself on the periphery two derechos
(Derechos are fast-moving bands of
thunderstorms with destructive winds)
as they blew their way past. But they
passed to either side and I was safe. The
following year two sets of twisters blew
their way through several states. I was
with a family in downtown Demopolis
at the time who had a “safe room”
in their home for such occasions, so
we were safe. With such storms you
get severe flooding, so I had to hold
up here for an entire month to wait
for the flood waters to recede, twice.
Later along the Kentucky River, I got a
flash flood warning on my phone just
before last light, followed by a severe
thunderstorm warning. I slipped and
slid and scrambled myself up a muddy
embankment, with all the expedition gear
and canoe up the hill as high as I could
get. I slept like a baby through the storm
and come the morning, when I zipped
open the front flaps of the tent, the water
was right there. It had risen at least 10
feet overnight and I had been lucky not
to have been washed away.
How much was up stream and how
much downstream? 7,500 miles total.
Upstream: 2700 miles; Downstream:
3963 miles; Portage: 410 miles; Flat
(lakes and gulf) 666 miles. A note,
the majority of “downstream” was the
Missouri River (2,196 miles), the majority
of which is dammed up, and thus with
the wind against you a whole lot, a real
challenge.
Seeing the trip seemed to coincide
with the Covid Pandemic did it play
a major role? The Covid-19 virus
really hit about a month and a half into
my journey, those early days ravaging
both states I was travelling between,
Washington and Oregon. That we all
finally understood that the pandemic
was on in a very real way. And I stopped,
and I reached out to trusted friends
– journalists and an ex-Army Special
Forces friend, who teaches the Army
to this day survival and how to dive in
the “wacky tides” of the Columbia River
Bar. I got in touch with them and asked
point blank what they thought, and the
overwhelming answer reverberated
in one chord – “You are in the safest
possible place. And you absolutely have
to keep going.”
The flip side to that decision was that
there was nowhere else to shelter in
place. Americans were no longer able to
travel back to Taiwan, Americans were
not able to travel to South Africa, both
places in the world where I also hang up
my hat and call home. So, in essence,
the journey itself -- the canoe and my
tent and all of my gear -- the expedition
itself became my home. And sheltering in
place meant continuing the journey.
Did you see a lot of wildlife – were
there any dangerous encounters?
There was a Grizzly bear near the top
of the Continental Divide, who passed
50 feet in front of me as I made my way
down the mountain towards Helena,
Montana. I was fall harnessed and
attached to my canoe with a big shipping
rope and by the time I got my snow
gloves off and my camera out of my
pocket, it was gone. Which made me
realize had it come for me, I wouldn’t
have had time to reach for the buck knife
or bear spray attached to my belt.
In Lake Pontchartrain at Bayou
Lacombe, a giant gator made its way
out of the water and towards my tent at
2:30 in the morning. I woke with a start,
clapped my hands in a half sleep and
it didn’t stop. So, I grabbed my diving
light (which is super bright) and shone it
out the front of the tent, and it stopped,
turned around, and walked back into
the bayou. Later, on a night paddle from
Deer Island near Biloxi, Miss. on the
Mississippi Gulf Coast to Horn Island, a
good 10 mile stretch across open water,
a bull shark repeatedly rammed the
canoe (three times) at last light. I knew
what it was, but I still had another 7 or
so miles to paddle into the dark gulf, so I
blocked what had happened out, a mind
over matter positive affirmation of sorts.
The shark didn’t come back for me,
and at twelve midnight, my open canoe
pushed up onto the sands at Horn Island
and I was safe.
What was the best part of the trip?
Seeing the beacon hand of the Statue
of Liberty in NY Harbor, and the entire
journey coming back to me in rapid-fire
flashes, the illumination of that flame
shining in every single face that I could
conjure. The least of us, the best of us,
the flame of liberty alive and well and
burning ever so bright.
Your home is in Taipei? I’ve spun the
continents between Cape Town and
Taipei for the past thirty years. I paid my
PO Box forward for three years before
embarking on this second attempt at the
cross-America journey so I like to say the
closest thing to a residence for me is that
PO Box. With the pandemic still on and
Taiwan closed down, I plan to hang my
hats in America for the near future.
What do you do there? I have taught
English in Taiwan and reported as a
freelance journalist.
Is there anyone you would like
to publicly thank? We talk about
supported vs unsupported adventures,
and I can say that I’ve been supported.
By smiles and waves and warm meals
and showers and well wishes. From
folks across America from all walks of
life, by friends out in the great big world
who have cheered the expedition on
from afar. I have travelled solo but I have
never been alone. And for that, I’ve got
to say cheers to one and all.
Above left to righ: Receiving a warm welcome / The 22 rivers from sea to sea / The interesting locals you meet on the way
Right: Departure from Esopus Island, the Hudson River. Photo courtesy Ranger Kevin Oldenburg (National Park Service)
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ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//33

EILEEN GU
finding the balance
Eileen Gu's ascent to become a winter-sports star
has been nothing short of remarkable the last two
years. In 2021, Gu burst onto the international
senior winter sports scene as a 17-year-old and
ripped up the record books with a rapid series of
breath-taking displays that stunned the freeskiing
world.
After winning two gold medals and a silver medal
at the 2020 Winter Youth Olympics, Gu claimed
two golds and a bronze at the 2021 Winter
X Games then the same again at the World
Championships with her unique talent seeing her
excel in big air, halfpipe and slopestyle.
But just who is the 18-year-old piano playing,
horse-back riding, Stanford University attending,
professional model who just happens to have a
supernatural gift on two skis?
Gu's 2021 season, which will go down in history
as she also won two gold medals and one bronze
medal at the World Championships despite
fracturing a finger and tearing a thumb UCL,
forcing her to ski without poles for the first time.
Eileen became the first rookie to win three Winter
X Games medals in between, while she also
became the first woman to land a forward double
cork 1440.
The talented teenager could have chosen any
number of career paths but chose skiing having
started aged three.
She openly admits she lives four different lives
where no second of any day is wasted, however
“being a teenager and doing teenager things” is
still very much part of the agenda with a joyous
moment shared when she is accepted into the
prestigious Stanford University as a legacy
applicant.
One of her many passions and interests away
from the snow is modelling with a recent Met Gala
appearance and first Vogue cover coming on the
back of her being named the new face of lingerie
brand Victoria's Secret.
She adds, "Both have a lot of creative expression,
take me out of my comfort zone and require a lot
of self-confidence."
Discover more in the Beyond the Ordinary
podcast episode: Eileen Gu and Bobby Brown: a
conversation between two freeski stars.
Top: Eileen and her first Vogue cover
Right: Showing her remarkable style
Following Page: Eileen Gu skiing at Mammoth Mountain, Mammoth Lakes, CA.
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TONGARIRO
NATIONAL
PARK
*
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WHAKAPAPAITI
VALLEY TRACK
What a difference a day makes...
Words and images by Lynne Dickinson and Vicki Knell
“Unbridged river crossing - it may not be
possible to cross safely when the river is
high following or during rainfall.”
The forecast was for clearing weather;
however, it had been raining fairly steadily
for the past few days and as we drove to
Whakapapa Village the air was still heavy
with moisture. There are two ways into
Whakapapaiti Hut, either via Whakapapaiti
Valley, which was the route we had
planned, but also the one that required
the said river crossing, or from 5km up the
Bruce Road from Whakapapa Village.
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//39

After chatting with the staff at the info centre at
Whapakapapa Village we decided not to risk an
unnecessary turn around if the river was indeed
too high, and instead parked at the village and
walked into the hut via the Bruce Road. We have
been coming to Whakapapa to ski since we were
in our teens, yet this is the first time we had both
walked up the Bruce Road. It was one of those
misty, cold, wet days where you couldn’t see the
mountain, actually you couldn’t see very far ahead
of you in any direction.
From the start of the track just past scoria flat it
was another 3km or so to the hut and by then
the rain had stopped and the mist was lifting
somewhat. Coming into the track from the upper
access wasn’t what we had planned but we
happily traversed across the undulating rocky
terrain before climbing to the highest point on the
trail. As we reached the crest, we were literally
stopped dead in our tracks by the view that
opened in front of us. Waterfalls cascaded down
sheer cliffs from the slopes of Ruapehu into the
Whakapapaiti Valley below. It was an incredible
sight. We sat in awe of what was less than an
hour’s walk from the place we had been visiting
for over 40 years.
From the crest of the trail it was another half an
hour or so down a steep slope via a succession
of switchbacks to the turnoff to the Whakapapaiti
Valley Track and another half hour to the hut. As
we dropped in elevation, the terrain changed from
bare rocks to mountain beech trees that had taken
hold alongside the tributaries of the Whakapapaiti
Stream.
It was here that the hut was located, an 18-bunk
spacious serviced hut with a great fire and an
even greater deck with views up towards Mt
Ruapehu and the cascading waterfalls. After a
relaxing lunch we headed down to check out the
river, and were glad that we had chosen the upper
access as we were unable to find a safe crossing.
Hiking in early November, we encountered
only one person on the trail and had the hut to
ourselves. There was a certain freedom to having
the valley all to ourselves, including a skinny dip
in one of the waterfalls only minutes from the hut,
secure in the fact that we wouldn’t see another
person for a while yet. So, you can imagine our
surprise when we woke around 5.30am to the
sound of voices. Peeking out the hut door we
saw two guys running past the hut, stopping for a
quick stretch before taking off again. They were
running the Round the Mountain Track, being
picked up later in the day by their dutiful partners.
Although impressed with this level of fitness and
commitment, we could not help but wonder what
they missed along the way by running the whole
thing in one day, however, each to their own.
Previous page: One of the good things about hiking in the rain was the abundant waterfalls
Above: Looking out from the crest of the hill not far from Scoria Flat
Top Left: Whakapapaiti Hut / Top Right: The start of the Whakapapaiti Track above Scoria Flat

Top: What a differnece a day makes
Second row left to right:
Always heed the warnings when it
comes to river crossings
Our delicious dinner, Backcountry
Cuisine, Roast Chicken
The faces say it all, stoked that the sun
has come out and the river level had
dropped so we were able to cross the
river and hike out down the valley
Left: The impressive Whakapapaiti
Valley
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//41

Although it had continued to rain overnight by morning
the weather had cleared and blue skies surrounded
us, highlighting the fresh dusting of snow that had
fallen overnight. The day before we had made a
mark on one of the rocks in the stream close to the
hut so we would be able to see if the water levels
had changed overnight. We were encouraged to
see a drop on the rock so continued on towards the
Whakapapaiti River. Prepared to turn around if we
had to, we were pleased to see the river had dropped
enough for a safe crossing enabling us to return to our
car via the Whakapapaiti Valley Track.
The Whakapapaiti Valley really is simply spectacular.
The only downside of walking it in reverse is that
we had to keep looking over our shoulder to take in
the view behind us. The day before we had walked
mainly through the volcanic rock we associate with Mt
Ruapehu, but today the terrain changed regularly. Due
to the heavy rain the previous days there were plenty
of puddles on the marshy tussock of the valley floor.
The track eventually left the tussock section of the
valley and we headed into a lush beech forest where
we crossed numerous bridges and streams as we
made our way down the mountain. The variety of
terrain was a highlight; with boardwalks, dirt tracks,
river crossing and mountain forests.
As we drew closer to Whakapapa Village the track
split in two offering the option of heading back via
Silica Rapids or keeping to the trail. We chose to
leave Silica Rapids and continued down the trail back
to Whakapapaiti Village, determined to return another
day.
Whakapapaiti Valley Track can be walked as a circuit
in one day, although with so much to see and explore I
would thoroughly recommend staying a night or two in
the hut. It is an excellent tramp to take children into as
the walk times give plenty of time for an afternoon of
exploration of the streams and waterfalls near the hut.
Editors Picks:
The Jetboil Stash Cooking System, makes heating water and cooking your meals quick and its
stashes down into a compact carry bag which is super lightweight. www.jetboil.co.nz
Backcountry Cuisine meals, this hike we ate Roast Chicken for dinner and Apple and Berry Crumble
for breakfast, both were delicious. www.backcountrycuisine.co.nz
Macpac Dragonfly 400 sleeping bag, lightweight but super warm, great for the cold and snowy night.
www.macpac.co.nz
Above: Views behind us of Mt Ruapehu make walking the track simply spectacular

Featuring all-new, patented FormKnit technology, the AirZone
Trek’s iconic carry system offers world-class comfort and
ventilation. Whether you’re feeling the heat on dusty tracks or
picking up the pace hut-to-hut, the AirZone Trek helps you keep
your cool.
www.rab.equipment
Available now from Lowe Alpine specialist stores throughout NZ.
Hunting and Fishing New Zealand stores nationwide. Auckland: Living Simply, Waikato: Trek & Travel, Equip Outdoors,
BOP: Whakatane Great Outdoors, Taupo: Outdoor Attitude, Wellington: Dwights Outdoors, Motueka: Coppins Outdoors,
Nelson: PackGearGo Kaikoura: Coastal Sports Christchurch: Complete Outdoors, Greymouth: Colls Sportsworld,
Hokitika: Wild Outdoorsman, Wanaka: MT Outdoors, Queenstown: Small Planet, Invercargill: Southern Adventure
Online: dwights.co.nz, gearshop.co.nz, equipoutdoors.co.nz, outdooraction.co.nz, mtoutdoors.co.nz, completeoutdoors.co.nz,
huntingandfishing.co.nz, smallplanetsports.com,trekntravel.co.nz, outfittersstore.nz
Distributed by: Outfitters 0800 021732
www.outfitters.net.nz

MOUNT
RUAPEHU
*
Reigning in
RUAPEHU
To live like kings and queens
is an expression we don’t
often live by. But what if we
did? For just a moment in
time, in this season of life, we
treat ourselves to something
extraordinary, something
phenomenal, without any
special occasion as an excuse.
Sky Waka Gondola
Rhine of the Pacific
But instead, simply fill our cups with moments that matter. Because
if there’s anything we’ve learned in recent years, it is that travel,
adventure, and freedom are all privileges we can’t take for granted.
In the wide-open spaces of Ruapehu, between mountains, rivers,
and otherworldly landscapes straight out of Hollywood movies,
there’s a mix of not so ordinary experiences for the bold and the
brave to go forth and conquer.
Luxury time travel with a modern twist on the Rhine of the
Pacific
Travel back in time with Forgotten World Adventures on a Rhine
of the Pacific Tour – four days of adventure and exploration
through the heart of the Whanganui River – New Zealand’s longest
navigable waterway. Journey by river-boat cruise or overland and
watch the history and magnificence of the river come to life as you
venture off the beaten path to hidden gems, heritage sites and
fantastic accommodation options to indulge in.
Escape to Retaruke Country Estate
Embark on a remarkable country lodge experience at Retaruke
Country Estate – an all-inclusive destination that includes made
to order meals, unique accommodation, and a wealth of activities
at your doorstep. Set amidst 4,000 acres of farmland, bush, and
streams just 8 kilometres west of National Park Village, Retaruke
Country Estate offers mountain biking, horse riding, off-road
adventures in an SxS, farm tours, fishing, clay bird shooting, walks,
and to top it all off, a lavish soak in an outdoor hot tub filled with
fresh spring water. Everything you could ever wish for in the most
beautiful setting - the perfect place to bliss out but also hard to
leave.
Scenic helicopter tour with Blazing Adventures
Fasten your seatbelts and take your reign to the skies with a scenic
helicopter tour with Blazing Adventures. Revel in awe-inspiring,
breath-taking aerial views of Ruapehu’s wonderland like you have
never seen before. Soar above the Whanganui River, take in the
panoramas of historic farmsteads, deep canyons, and ancient bush
44//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

Horse Trekking at Blue Duck Station”
with magnificent mountains in all their glory. Tailor-made packages
can be customised to include jetboating, as well as visiting several
off-the-grid destinations that offer unique experiences.
Multi-day horse safari at Blue Duck Station
Traverse the dramatic landscapes of Whanganui National Park by
horseback and see the world from a different perspective – where
there’s nothing between you and our greater outdoors. Navigate
virgin rainforest and untouched trails on a multi-day horse trek at
Blue Duck Station that includes your own personal guide, and all
the creature comforts you could possibly want. This incredible, fully
catered experience includes awesome accommodation, luggage
transfers, gourmet meals, a jet boat tour on the Whanganui River as
well as an upgraded package option that combines the one-of-a-kind
Chef’s Table experience.
Take on New Zealand’s longest, most advanced gondola ride at
Sky Waka
Journey into the clouds on the Sky Waka gondola ride and let
your senses soar to new heights. As New Zealand’s longest, most
advanced gondola ride, the Sky Waka is a 1.8 km incredible journey
above the UNESCO Dual World Heritage Site of Tongariro National
Park starting from Whakapapa on Mt Ruapehu. Arrive at the awardwinning
Knoll Ridge Chalet and feast on a lavish lunch buffet with
stunning floor-to-ceiling views overlooking the Pinnacles and the
valley below.
The peak of fine dining at The Chef’s Table
More than just a dinner party, dining at The Chef’s Table at Blue
Duck Station is a once in a lifetime experience that delivers top of
the world dining surrounded by the majestic peaks of Ruapehu,
Ngāuruhoe and Taranaki. A remote, refined, conservation focused
restaurant that tantalises taste buds with a 3-4 hour long tasting
menu - consisting of 11 dishes farmed and foraged from produce
and ingredients found on the station. With three luxury cabins
adjacent to the restaurant, you can experience the renowned ATV
Bush Safari Dinner as well as the bed and breakfast combo and truly
embrace the good life.
Wonders will never cease for
true explorers...
Find your next adventure at
www.visitruapehu.com
Retaruke Country Estate
Chef's Table at Blue Duck Station

The longest
FISHING
ADVENTURE ever
Now that winter had passed and the darker waters were once again like gin, I could see him
darting out from the under the hanging tree eating whatever it is the trout were eating that day. I
had a feeling he knew I was there. The sun was bright, and it was hard to keep your shadow off
the water. With the water this clear you need to be cunning. But I had fished this spot so many
times, over and over, but this big old boy was too clever for me. Today, I knew would be my last
chance. I cast the tiny hook up stream of him and watched as the fly approached. I had drifted
over this fish dozens of times. Suddenly and unexpectedly the water erupted. Determined not to
lose this big guy I chased him down stream as he headed off like a train for faster, safer water.
But slowly I wore him down and edged him towards the riverbank. I unclipped my net and moved
him carefully towards me. On sighting the net, he did one big back flip, and the line broke just
above the fly.
I could see the beaded fly, like a gangster lip piercing on the top of his lip. He sat a few feet away
from me in the clear water, getting his breath back. I looked at him, he looked at me and with a
‘f&@k you’ attitude he very slowly swam off. I sat on the bank, watched the river, resigned myself
to the loss, and then walked the 600m home and that was the end of day eighty!

Covid changed the face of a lot of activities, instead of being
able to trek across the world or even New Zealand you had
to stay in one place. But sometimes, you are just lucky.
In July 2021 we decided that we would ski the whole season
as often as we could and moved family and business to
Turangi under the shadow of the mighty maunga and on the
banks of the Tongariro. We have owned a property in Turangi
for years and although the river has changed a few times
over the years with different flooding patterns, our house has
always been about 600m from the bank.
It was here I was taught to fly fish by the late John
Sommerville, who sadly passed away while I was in the
middle of writing this article. He not only taught me how to
fish, he showed me how to love it and it has been a passion
ever since.
When we arrived in July, I didn’t fish every day but did a
few times a week. Then lockdown came and at first you
were not allowed to fish. What was truly amazing was how
the river soon flourished with life; the trout were shallow
and there were a lot of them, even my dog started to try
and catch them. But absence makes the heart grow fonder
and not being able to fish fuelled into a passion. I heard a
rumour that you could fish in the river at level 4, but I wasn’t
sure, so I asked a local police officer who was checking on
the riverbank if it was ok or not? His reply in typical Turangi
fashion was, “you can fish but don’t be a dick and wade too
deep.” With the official nod of approval I was back into it.
Eighty days back to back without missing one, might be
some sort of a record. Some days were more fun that others,
I caught fish in a deluging raging storm and caught nothing
on windless perfect days.
As a rough calculation I have used over 150m of line; 10lbs,
8lbs, 6lbs and 4lbs. It is hard to calculate the number of lost
flies, but it must be in the region 100, particularly when I first
started, some local trees that are hard to get to over deepwater
pools look like Christmas trees (not just with my flies).
I broke two rods; one I slipped on the bank and snapped it at
the handle, the other broke on a large fish (I think a previous
cast that had hit the rod had caused a crack). I have been
through 5 pairs of thermal socks and bought three types of
waders to cope with the changing season.
How many fish? On average I lost about 5 fish per day so
that’s a loss of about 400 fish! Some days you land one,
some you land 10. I never kept a record, but I wish I had. I
didn’t always bring them home, but I would bring one home
from time to time. That is still a lot of trout to eat; fried, baked,
smoked, grilled, pate, Thai, Chinese, even raw. With noodles,
with vegetables, with rice or just on its own. I even tried to
cook the roe once, it looked great but I could not get that to
work, but I am open to suggestions.
In the central plateau you really see the change in seasons;
the paths you freely walked in winter, in summer are choked
with rapid growing everything; trees and shrubs go from
black bare branches to buds, to blossoms, to leaves. One
winters morning it was so cold, minus 8 and my fingers
were so frozen I could not tie on a fly and my rod eyes were
freezing over, and in summer it is so hot you have to stop
and climb out of all your gear to rest and cool down.
There is a real sense of a fishing community here, you meet
the same people on the river, everyone has time to stop
and chat, you find yourself happily helping novices because
others helped you and after eighty days you really don’t care
if you don’t fish every moment. But you do get to know every
nook, cranny, and ripple. Once, I arrived to see a guy and
his wife stand on a bank a quarter away across the river.
Fishing in a fast rapid. They saw me coming and waved. I
asked how the fishing was going they said terrible that they
had been there for an hour and nothing. So I told them there
are fish in the rapid, ‘there’ and pointed to a shallow ripple,
behind them is where I knew fish had been laying day after
day, (I had stopped fishing that spot as it as it was a bit like
shooting fish in a barrel). I could tell they didn’t believe me,
so I encouraged them to give it a try. One cast, one fish.
They were amazed and thrilled, it made my day.
Living in Turangi there are a lot of trout guides, in our street
alone there are four or five. As long as you have time to
spare, they are happy to pass over their years of expertise
because you are part of the community.
Eighty days fishing seems like a lot, and I guess it is,
when you look back through your phone images it’s been
a great way to spend the winter, it becomes almost a type
of meditation, the action, the calm, the sound of the river,
and as the world was pretty much in turmoil it was a great
escape. It really is not about catching the fish, it’s about the
experience.
Lastly, I have to give a shout out to the local fishing store
in Turangi, Sporting Life; Andrew, Jessie, and the team
have been great. Always helpful with real advice and their
knowledge of the area is complete (this is not a paid advert).
A good local store can take so much of the guess work out of
a region.
As we still try to come to terms with what has happened in
the world, it’s good to know that there can be a silver lining
and mine has been the opportunity to become extremely
intermate with a stretch of water that in normal circumstance
would have been a one night stand.
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ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//49

KARAKORAM
*
Making history
K2 IN WINTER
Nepalese climber Nirmal 'Nims' Purja MBE made history on January 16, 2021, at 5pm local
time when the former Gurkha and UK Special Forces operative and his team became the first
mountaineers to ever summit K2 in winter.
With a plan to complete all 14 eight-thousand metre summits in seven months, Nims summited
the first mountain on 23 April 2019 and completed Project Possible 14/7 six months later with a
successful summit on 29 October using supplemental oxygen. Project possible has now been made
into a Netflx documentary called 14 Peaks: Nothing is Impossible...
But K2 is altogether different beast... Standing 8,611m above sea level, K2 is the second highest
peak, dwarfed only by Mount Everest, and the only 8,000m peak in the world that had never been
climbed during winter with attempts on the mountain normally made in July or August, during the
warmest periods.
Although previously only attempted in the summer months, K2 has one of the deadliest records,
killing one climber for every four who succeed in reaching its summit. In winter the odds of survival
are even less. Since the first attempt in 1954, 87 climbers have perished on its slopes and only 377
have successfully reached the summit.
The extra challenges that winter brings are winds of up to 200km per hour and temperatures as
low as minus 60oC. Climbers have to navigate nearly sheer rock faces rising 80 degrees, while
avoiding frequent and unpredictable avalanches. There are numerous natural hurdles including the
Black Pyramid and the deadliest part of the climb, the Bottleneck, a steep gully ridges with columns
of glacial ice prone to collapsing. It was here that 11 people lost their lives in 2008, when one of the
ridges broke free sending an avalanche into the group of climbers. None survived.
However, the descent is where most of the deaths (85%) happen because climbers use all their
energy reaching the summit and leave no reserves.
Only eight expeditions have attempted a winter ascent, but Nims and his crew are the first to reach
the summit.
The full list of those who summitted K2 in winter is: Nirmal Purja (Team Nimsdai), Mingma David
Sherpa (Team Nimsdai), Mingma Tenzi Sherpa (Team Nimsdai), Geljen Sherpa (Team Nimsdai),
Pem Chiri Sherpa (Team Nimsdai), Dawa Temba Sherpa (Team Nimsdai), Mingma G (Team
Mingma G), Dawa Tenzing Sherpa (Team Mingma G), Kilu Pemba Sherpa (Team Mingma G) and
Sona Sherpa (Team SST).
Here is what the 37-year-old had to say about the team's extraordinary feat:
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//51

What are the main three things that separates a winter
climb from a summer one?
The three main elements are: the extreme cold temperatures,
weather conditions and the climber's ability to function in such
environment.
Your story has been embraced by the world as a slice of
hope in dark times, so how proud are you that a team of
Nepalese climbers could give hope and joy to so many
people in need? This event will always remain as one of
the most special moments of my life. What we have achieved
and earned wasn't for any individual gain. I am humbled
that we were able to share this moment and reach out to the
communities around the world, in the middle of a pandemic.
We were able to relay a strong positive message. Pushing the
human limits and making that impossible possible as a team
showed that what can be achieved with solidarity and unity.
Nothing is impossible if you put your heart, mind and soul into it.
Which parts of the challenge were you most afraid of
before you set off and which parts turned out to be the
hardest during it? I had frost nip on my fingers and hadn't
acclimatised adequately above Camp 2 (6,600m). The decision
to press on summit push was a tough one. There was no such
thing as the hardest challenge during the climb, as the entire
journey was a challenge of its kind.
What makes K2 such a special, mystical mountain
compared to Mount Everest in the winter? It was the hardest
and the last remaining challenge. Mount Everest was already
climbed in winter.
How are you feeling mentally and physically right now
after completing such an incredible feat? I feel great. All my
team members made it home safe and sound and that what is
matters the most.
Tell us about your Nepalese partners for the summit
ascent - how did you choose the team, and how important
were they in the successful attempt? K2 winter was no
joke! Selecting team members was not limited to their physical
ability but they needed to have a strong mindset too. Everyone
needed to have a sheer desire and determination to make this
impossible possible for humankind and for the Nepali climbing
community, who have always been the frontier of 8000m but
never received their due. I am super proud of all my team
members. The success was a joint team effort, a symbol of
hardship, selfless effort and unity.
What did you take away from completing Project Possible
that helped you in your K2 quest? Climbing 14 x 8000ers in
six months wasn't easy, of course. There was a lot of ups and
downs. I learnt a lot through the experiences and gathered
knowledge.
What skills from your time in the UK's Special Boat Service
helped you the most on this challenge? I think the main one
is the ability to make decisions in any stressful environment.
You have to keep yourself calm and composed, whatever the
situation is, and have that positive outlook.
You have been breaking records at an astonishing speed.
Are you going to have a rest or have you already got
another challenge up your sleeve? I love pushing my limits. I
heard someone saying that Nimsdai is full of surprises. Let's put
it that way, who knows what's next!
You are known to like a good party after your feats. How
long will this one last? Aha, one needs a good celebration
after a feat like this. It's like recuperation. I feel extremely happy
seeing all my team members happy. It may last a few weeks,
for sure.
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CENTRAL
OTAGO
*
Cycling
CENTRAL OTAGO
The Cycling on Central Otago Cycle trails
provides a huge range of great options
for all riders at Grade 1 – 3 levels. That
is without even looking at the options for
those wanting cross country and downhill
hill options.
The Otago Central Rail Trail from Clyde to Middlemarch has been
attracting riders from around New Zealand and the world for over 20
years and is the “Original Great Ride”. It was the result of some very
forward thinking from landowners and DOC on the closure of the Railway
line from Ranfurly to Middlemarch in the early 90’s. This trail suits
families, social groups, and the individual travellers with a great range of
accommodation from DOC campsites, Holiday Parks B’nB’s, purposebuilt
lodges and if you are wanting that special boutique experience that
can be provided as well. The trail is 152 kms in total and can be ridden
over 3-5 days,with 4 days being the most popular as it allows for those
sore bums and to enjoy everything the trail has to offer. Food is not a
problem with some of NZ’s best and brightest country pubs and cafes
along the way. This trail is all grade 1 so suits all riders from the less
experienced or very young through to those where cycling is a passion.
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The Roxburgh Gorge Trail from Alexandra
(most people do start from Clyde) to the
Roxburgh Hydro Dam 22 / 34km riding. It is
usually combined with the Clutha Gold trail
for a great multi day experience, however,
it is a great 1-day trip for those on a shorter
timeframe. The Gorge is considered NZ "Little
Grand Canyon". The views are stunning, and it is
complemented by an awesome boat ride in the
middle to connect the ends of the trail. This boat
trip provides you with all the history of this area
focusing on the gold mining in particular. There
is some significant climbing, but it is all easily
ridable with the highest grade being Grade 2.
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//55

The Clutha Gold Trail is an awesome Grade 1 trail that
follows the mighty Clutha Mata Au River from the Lake
Roxburgh Dam to Beaumont on a undulating flowing ride. It
then heads to Lawrence via Big Hill tunnel. You pass through
Millers Flat and then the Beaumont Gorge stopping at
Horseshoe Bend bridge and a side trip to the Lonely Graves
beckons. Finishing in Lawrence allows you to bring all that
gold mining history to a closure with a great little museum and
the opportunity to visit Gabriel’s Gully, the home of NZ’s first
major Gold Rush. This trail is also under further development
with it hopefully reaching Milton later this year, allowing more
people to enjoy the accommodation, cafes and shops that
Lawrence has to offer.
The Lake Dunstan Trail has opened this year and has proved
to be a huge drawcard for both local and out of town riders. It
is a wonderful 40km ride from Old Cromwell Town to Historic
Clyde on a trail that varies between Grade 1 and Grade 3. It is
super important to ride within your means. The ride to Coffee
A Float is perfect for families and novices from there you need
to be competent riders to ensure you and other riders on the
trail have a safe and enjoyable trip. The engineering on this
trail is second to none with amazing cantilever sections and
stunning stonework.
The opportunity for combining all or some of these trails or
sections of all of them is huge. If you are looking at staying
in one place then Clyde beckons, then you can do 3 one day
trips on the OCRT, the Roxburgh Gorge and finish with the
Lake Dunstan Trail the perfect progression and three totally
different experiences. If you are wanting a multi-day cycle
experience with different accommodation each evening and
riding for 5 days, in fact up to 10 days you can combine all 4
trails.
Grades
Grade 1 (Easiest)
Suitable for novice riders, families and others seeking an
easy, relaxing cycling experience. Most bikes are suitable,
including touring bikes, hybrid bikes and children’s bikes.
E-bikes are also suitable as long as they are ridden
appropriately and have sufficient battery capacity.
Off-road trails are smooth (firm gravel or sealed), with only
gentle climbs and generally wide enough for side-by-side
riding. Many follow old rail trails. On-road sections of Great
Rides generally follow quiet roads with little traffic.
Grade 2 (Easy)
Suitable for most riders including beginners, occasional
cyclists and families with limited cycling experience. A
multi-geared bike with medium to wide knobbly tyres is
recommended, such as a comfort bike, touring bike or
mountain bike. E-bikes are also suitable as long as they are
ridden appropriately and have sufficient battery capacity.
Off-road trails are usually wide and smooth (firm gravel
or sealed), with some gentle climbs. These trails are
predictable, i.e. have no nasty surprises. On-road sections
of Great Rides generally follow quiet roads with little traffic.
Grade 3 (Intermediate)
Suitable for regular experienced cyclists with a good
level of fitness and over 12 years old; children should be
accompanied by an adult.
A mountain bike is recommended for off-road sections.
E-mountain bikes are suitable provided they are ridden
appropriately, have sufficient battery capacity, and the rider
is capable of completing the trail in the event of a battery/
power failure.
For on-road trails/sections on gravel roads, bikes with
knobbly tyres are recommended. Road racing tyres are
generally not suitable.
Off-road trails can be narrow and may include hills, steep
drop-offs and small river crossings. Trail surfaces are
mainly firm but may include muddy or loose sections, and
obstacles such as rocks or tree roots.
On-road trails/sections may have moderate traffic levels (up
to 1000 vehicles a day), and include hill climbs and gravel
sections. Note: all Heartland Rides are grade 3 or above.
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Reviews from
millions of Tripadvisor
travellers place this
attraction in the top
10% worldwide.
Come cycling in
stunning Central Otago
and let the experts look
after all your needs.
> Lake Dunstan Trail
> Otago Central Rail Trail
> Roxbourgh Gorge Trail
and more...
Call the experts at Bike It Now!: 0800 245 366
Clyde Bike Shop and Tour office open 7 Days
Cromwell Bike Shop open 7 days
www.bikeitnow.co.nz
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⬤⬤⬤⬤⬤

Words and images by Rob Wilson
New Zealand Tamatea Blue Project - Ghost Diving NZ
Ghost Divers join the dive charter Pure Salt to descend
into historical Fiordland to remove over 5000kgs of bottles
and junk from the seemingly pristine water of this exclusive
location. Anchors and plundered sinks from a nearby wreck
of historic significance are just some of the items we have
removed from the sites during this project. In total in three
years and 9 dives we have removed 11,500kgs from Dusky
Sound
Helicopter insertion for a dive felt very much like we
were special forces
Helicopter insertion through some of the most incredible
mountains felt very much like we were special forces and
especially so as an ex NZ Navy vessel the *M.V Flightless
was waiting for us at our landing zone. (*now owned by local
business Pure Salt - www.puresalt.co.nz.) However, with
such a unique insertion, carry on equipment was restricted
so we were travelling light.
The flight through the snow-capped peaks is definitely one
of the most incredible experiences of my life, I was virtually
speechless at its sheer rugged beauty. The helicopter
touches down on a platform on top of the majestic 27m
vessel the Flightless.
We met Maria and Sean our hosts who have hosted myself
and the team during this incredible project. They were the
most amazing people with passion, energy, sheer love
and respect for this land we all call home - Aotearoa (New
Zealand.)
The "Tamatea Blue Project" has a double meaning. One is
that 'Dusky Sound', the area we were heading to, is called
'Tamatea' in Maori language. The other is that the area
pays homage to one of New Zealand’s greatest explorers
'Tamatea, who has been described as the ‘Māori Marco
Polo’. He circumnavigated the North and South islands and
also explored inland. He was sometimes called Tamateapōkaiwhenua
(land explorer) or Tamatea-pōkaimoana (sea
explorer). And to say this area was of historic significance is
by far the understatement of 2020.
This area marks the very first meaningful interaction
with those Europeans from the outside world
This area marks the very first meaningful interaction with
those Europeans from the outside world as Captain Cook on
his second voyage interacted directly with the 'Iwi' (Tribes)
in 1773. And the cove that the project was operating in
is a beautiful site called 'Luncheon Cove' where the first
European settlement in New Zealand located in 1792.
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Fiordland rain is something else, “Well it is a rainforest”

Left to right: Historic sink plundered from the wreck of the Waikare, recovered by our team in Luncheon Cove.
Rob Edward - James Croker and Eddie Howard descend to the black coral.
Some of the 40 batteries recovered
Opposite page: Stuart Day and Rob Wilson clear their safety stop and prepare to ascend after the tyres they have sent to the surface.
Now fast forward to 2021 now our third
visit to Dusky, the dive team suit up into
their drysuits and Halcyon kit, ready
to dive in this incredibly exclusive and
isolated location. In all honesty I was not
expecting what we usually encounter
with our typical Ghost Diving dives or
when we dive for Project Baseline Clyde
Quay. Surprisingly enough, the sight I
saw was not so dissimilar!
Bubbles roared from the exhaust tee
of my Halo as I descended through the
tannin rich water, scanning left and right
I saw two Seven-Gill Sharks come up
out of the depths to welcome our team to
the area, it was wonderful. Sadly though,
within minutes I scootered over a huge
pile of car batteries, initially I estimated
at least 20. The actual amount once
we dug them out of the seabed was
horrifying at 40! (1000kgs of car batteries
alone.) We knew we had our work cut
out for us....
Freedivers and technical divers
working in harmony
Since the launch of Ghost Diving here in
NZ, I have constantly seen the value of
working with highly skilled freedivers and
this project again proved their invaluable
support.
Throughout this annual project, we have
been working side by side with some
incredible free-divers and they are truly
amazing. The one item we find by the
mountain is long neck beer bottles –
there were literally 1000s.
Both Scuba and Free teams haul beer
bottle after beer bottle filling giant canvas
bags to be removed in one hit with our
lift bags. We have even found multiple
anchors over the last three years and
they had snared everything from fishing
lines to ropes of various flavours.
One of the items as irony has it, to be
discovered was as I surged home to the
vessel on my DPV (Dive Xtras scooter),
I noticed an odd circular shape on the
sea bed. The circle was no more than an
inch across, but after years of doing this,
I have an uncanny eye for the uncanny!
Descending back to the sea floor I began
clawing at the edges of this bizarre
looking object. To my surprise, it was
another sink! (We found another one on
our first trip in 2019.)
We had literally found everything
including the kitchen sink and as soon
as I saw the Union Steamship logo, I
knew again it was something interesting.
In actual fact, this sink had a surprising
significance.
We had literally found everything
including the kitchen sink
This particular sink as had the previous
one from 2019 had been plundered and
then dumped from a nearby wreck of a
vessel called the 'Waikare' a steamship
that had struck an uncharted rock
between Indian island and Passage Inlet
in 1910 before beaching on Stop Island
for the passengers to safely disembark.
The skipper Sean and Maria recognised
the sink and its significance straight
away - again showing their intimate
knowledge of this area. Maria and Sean
without hesitation got this historic sink off
to a local maritime museum where the
sink is now proudly on display.
The teams worked in amazing cohesion
for the time we had in the darkened
water. A grand total of over 5000kgs was
removed from this amazing area, most of
which was thrown from visiting vessels.
And at the end of the project the Pure
Salt team spoiled us with a dive to see
the majestic black coral
Tamatea/Dusky Sound of course is world
famous for its black coral some of which
we found in 11m of water and any diver
will tell you that is incredible as it is as
a deep water species. At the end of the
project, the Pure Salt team spoiled us
with a dive to see this majestic black
coral in 25-29m of water.
Something rare and fascinating grows
in the depths of Milford Sound – black
coral. Known as antipathes fiordensis,
this black coral is native to the Fiordland
area. Black coral usually lives in deep
ocean but thanks to the geology of
Milford Sound, you can see black coral
as shallow as 10 metres below the
surface.
As heavy rainfall drains through the lush
forests, it gets stained with tannins until
that is the colour of strong tea. Because
fresh water is less dense than salt water,
the rainwater forms a protective top layer
over the salt water from the incoming
Tasman Sea. The darkened fresh water
blocks sunlight, with light levels at 10m
deep in Milford Sound being equivalent
to those at about 70m in the open sea.
Due to this unique environment, the fiord
supports the world’s biggest population
of black coral trees.
There are 60 varieties of black coral in
Dusky Sound and it is also home to rare
red corals and the enormous bubblegum
coral, which can grow up to seven
metres high and live for centuries. There
are about seven million colonies of coral
in Dusky Sound.
A truly magnificent location and an
incredibly valuable project.
The initial success of our first project in
2019 was the first stepping stone for the
now annual Tamatea Blue Project with
the crew of Pure Salt. Some of my teams
are joining me again and some gutsy
volunteers and battle tested freedivers
to again make a difference to this once
pristine environment.
We will endeavour to return this magical
place to its true majesty before the onset
of those before us.
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Would you like to donate? www.givealittle.co.nz/cause/ghost-diving-nz
For more information and memberships gfnzmembership@gmail.com

MACKENZIE
COUNTRY
*
LEGENDARY
MACKENZIE
Your 2022 Adventure Bucket List
The last two years have made us really appreciate what's In
our own backyard - yet so many still haven't gone beyond
the beaten track, and explored the not so well-known "hidden
gems". With much of the world reopening It's borders, and New
Zealand soon to follow, 2022 Is undoubtedly the year to get
these bucket-list adventures done.
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Lake Tekapo from UC Mount John Observatory

Glentanner Heli Hike
The Mackenzie Region Is home to some of New Zealand's most
recognisable Icons such as Aoraki and the piercingly blue lakes
of Pūkaki and Tekapo. The region (which includes the townships
of Fairlie, Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook and Twizel) also
boasts the world's largest gold dark sky reserve, New Zealand's
largest glacier and some of the most spectacular trails and
backcountry to adventure in. It's no wonder the region was
one of the most popular international visitor spots prior to the
pandemic.
Here's our top adventures to put on your list in 2022:
Ski The Tasman Glacier
Dark Sky Project, UC Mount John Observatory
1. Overnight next to Aoraki
Alpine Guides' Plateau Hut Overnight trip Is the perfect 'easy'
mountain adventure with no mountaineering experience
necessary. Stay In the modern NZ alpine hut (where
mountaineers stay before they make their Aoraki ascent)
and enjoy the 'big mountain' terrain. You'll accompanied by
a professional guide who will show you all that’s required for
safe glacier travel, including crampons, snowshoes and ice
axe skills. One of the many highlights is a non-technical climb
to the summit of Glacier Dome (2,452m) – a snow-clad peak
on the very flanks of Aoraki/Mount Cook. The experience Is
great for astrophotographers and star lovers who love a taste of
adventure. Alpineguides.co.nz
Alpine Recreation's Mt Cook Trek is a two day guided trek
through amazing alpine terrain In Aoraki/Mount Cook National
Park. Enjoy a night In the private Caroline Hut whilst savouring
the mindblowing views (and sounds) of the 2000m high Caroline
Face of Aoraki. You'll be awed by the sunsets, stars and the
sounds of avalanches rumbling down Aoraki. The Mt Cook Trek
Is beginner mountaineering and more demanding than any of the
Great Walks - you'll need to have previous hiking, backpacking
or bushwalking experience. alpinerecreation.co.nz
2. Grow your mountaineering skills
Amping to get into the mountains but don't quite have the
technical capability or confidence to do your dream alpine
adventure? Alpine Recreation, Alpine Guides and Southern
Alps Guiding provide a range of group and personalised
mountaineering and climbing courses to help aspiring and
experienced mountaineers build their technical abilities and
confidence, setting solid foundations for future years of
exploration. Learn the technical skills of mountaineering, risk
awareness, how to assess weather and hazards, and more.
After completing a course you’ll be able to plan your own trips
above the snowline, choose a safe route, travel confidently
through snow, and other essential skills for safe mountaineering.
alpineguides.co.nz, mtcook.com, alpinerecreation.co.nz
3. Experience rural Mackenzie
The Mackenzie is renowned for its spectacularly rugged farming
terrain and tough pioneering spirt. If the challenging alpine
terrain within Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park Isn't what you're
after - then try a single or multi day guided walk across one of
our Iconic high country stations. You’ll gain a rich insight into
what it takes to farm in this rugged part of the country.
Roundhill Ski Area
Four Peaks High Country Track is a 2-4 day/night walk or
mountain bike ride over a historic sheep station, in the hills near
Fairlie, 2 hours from Christchurch. The track is an initial 17km
drive in a 4WD vehicle to the start of the track. The walk itself
is an approximate 25km round trip over Four Peaks Station
following the route taken by pioneer farmers and shepherds
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Plateau Hut Overnight, Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
Tekapo Adventures Mackenzie Alpine Hike

in the 1850s when sheep were first farmed in
the area. The unique shepherds’ huts (including
NZ’s oldest surviving shepherd’s hut) are those
used by shepherds for mustering and boundary
keeping from the 1860s to the 1970s when there
was little or no fencing in the South Island high
country. They have been upgraded for comfort
and cosiness with flush toilets and hot showers,
while taking care to retain as much of their original
history and charm as possible. Your packs are
transported from hut to hut so you only walk/bike
with a small daypack to carry lunch & wet weather
gear. walkfourpeaks.co.nz
Tekapo Adventures offer the stunning Mackenzie
Alpine Hiking tour - a 2 night guided walking
experience that takes you through the Iconic
Glenmore Station which spans over 50,000 acres
and neighbours Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
The trek Is catered towards moderate fitness
levels, and operates December - May. You'll stay
In private huts and even visit New Zealand's (and
possibly the world's) highest whiskey hut - aptly
named Bad Decision Hut. This hike Is everything
you think of when you think Mackenzie working
stations - It offers mountainous backcountry, U
shaped valleys carved by glaciation, waterfalls,
glaciers, moraines and braided river systems.
tekapoadventures.co.nz
If time doesn’t allow a multi-day walk then
Glentanner Heli-Hike is for you. Explore the
stunning Glentanner Station by foot on this 3.5
hour guided descent. This iconic working station
overlooks Lake Pūkaki and Aoraki Mount Cook
National Park, offering some of the world’s most
spectacular views. The new walking tour has been
created since the pandemic, and has been a hit
with the domestic market. Glentanner.co.nz
4. Winter different
The Mackenzie transforms into a winter playground
over the cooler months, offering a plethora of
amazing experiences for the winter adventurer.
Alpine Guides, Southern Alps Guiding, Heliworks,
The Helicopter Line and Mt Cook Ski Planes and
Helicopters all offer a range of heli-ski options In
Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. And whilst the
word 'heli-ski' sounds like technically challenging
terrain, there's actually something to suit almost
every level of skier. Skiing the Tasman Glacier
Is perfect for families and groups of mates with
differing abilities - It's easy to Intermediate (blue/
green) runs with unbeatable views of Aoraki. If you
strike a good day you'll get Inside Ice caves and
see Incredible formations as well. The competent
skier will also be satisfied In the National Park -
simply call one of the region's heli-ski operators to
discuss what might work for you.
Ski The Tasman Glacier
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ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//67

Tekapo Adventures Mackenzie Alpine Hike
Getting there
The Mackenzie approximately 2.5 hours drive
on the main highway between Christchurch and
Queenstown. The closest airport Is Timaru which
offers direct flights from Wellington. There are a
range of rental (self-drive) options. Intercity and
Cheeky Kiwi Travel also offer coach services
between Christchurch and Queenstown.
Recommended Stay
• Skyscape, Twizel
• Quail Rest, Lake Benmore
• Highland Farm Stay, Twizel
• Musterers, Fairlie
• The Cairns, Lake Tekapo
Recommended Eats
• Fairlie Bakehouse
• Mint Folk & Co, Twizel
• Silverstream Hotel, Kimbell
• Grumpy Cow, Lake Tekapo
• Blue Lake Eatery, Lake Tekapo
• Mountaineers, Aoraki
Recommended Add On's:
• Tekapo Springs Hot Pools
• Dark Sky Project stargazing tour
• Glacier Explorers
• Omarama Clay Cliffs
• Hooker Valley Track
Visit www.mackenzienz.com for Inspiration and
Information when planning your next adventure In
the Mackenzie.
Alpine Recreation offers a range of guided ski and split
board touring trips and backcountry experiences In some of
the country's most spectacular winter wilderness locations.
They also offer ski touring and backcountry instruction
courses for those wanting to build confidence and
competence. They own and operate two private, heated
huts and can create touring options to cater for various ski
and boarding abilities, fitness levels and objectives. For
those wanting to tour without a guide, Glenmore Station
offers a range of bookable huts perfect for the experienced
ski-tourer.
In addition to these bucket-list winter ski adventures, don’t
forget to head to the three boutique skifields (Dobson,
Roundhill, Ōhau) which offer a more relaxed pace to the
bigger fields in the surrounding regions. A mulled wine or
cider overlooking Lake Tekapo at Roundhill’s von Brown
Hut is a must.
5. Alps 2 Ocean
The Mackenzie Is the starting point of the popular Great
Ride Alps 2 Ocean, with starting points in both Lake Tekapo
and Aoraki/Mount Cook. The trail Is widely regarded as
providing New Zealand’s condensed topography all in one
ride: snow-capped mountains; emerald green paddocks;
native bush; wide-open golden grasslands; and a flowing
journey of water from glaciers, turquoise lakes, rivers,
canals, finishing up at the Pacific Ocean. The full trail is
315km with the end point in Ōamaru. Most take 5-7 days
to complete the trail (and enjoy the myriad of experiences
and eateries along the way) however there are also
opportunities for day trips. There's a range of operators
provided guided tours, logistics and bike (Including e-bike)
rentals making the preparation and experience easy.
alps2ocean.com
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TEAHUPO’O -TAHITI 11TH OF JULY 2019
A good South swell, and the islands of Tahiti
get the best waves in the world. This image
was shot by Bogus Sta from Tahiti. Teahupo'o
has produced some breath-taking images
over the years and Bogus has manged to
capture some amazing moments.
Bogus commented about this image
“This wave was a bomb and it really surprised
us all, luckily I had time to shoot Raimana
making a perfect ride as the west bowl was
getting super heavy. I had to hurry to escape
from the impact zone (Bogus was swimming)
few of us got shook but nobody got hurt!
What a moment, this is what we are living for!
Mauruuru (thank you) to the ocean, we live in
heaven!”
Raimana Van Bastolaer has made a career
out of surfing the world’s thickest wave in
Teahupo'o if its big he is normally the first out
there.
VOLGA RIVER, TOLYATTI, RUSSIA
Photographer Alexey Shabanov talks about the shot:
"Last summer turned out to be difficult for everyone. Fortunately, my
wife and I spent this time out of town, in a place surrounded by a
forest and the Volga River. It is such a beautiful place, so I couldn’t
resist taking pictures. Flying over one of the islands, I noticed that
the sand dunes beautifully go into the river, creating a fantastic
relief similar to the slopes of mountains. As it was quite an isolated
location it was difficult to find an athlete who was ready to put my
ideas into practice. And that’s when Instagram really helped me!
I posted a request and my old friend, Anton Popov, immediately
reacted and said that he was ready to do anything to get into the
photo (his exact words). A couple of days later we went to the
location to implement this idea. The morning sun very beautifully
emphasised the relief of the sandy beach and created a real feeling
of an athlete going down the mountainside." Red Bull Illume.
Follow Bogus in Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/bogus689/?hl=en
70//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

posure
X

Merrell Sandspur 2 Flip - Men’s $129.00
Designed for all day comfort the Sandspur Flip
is an easy and simple summer choice, providing
extra cushioning and wearability for any or all warm
weather occasions.
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ
Merrell Jungle Moc Funfetti - Men’s and Women’s
$199.00
A celebration in every step. Our 40th Anniversary
Jungle Moc, is our famous low-maintenance shoe
reimagined to commemorate four decades of
breaking new ground on and off the trail.
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ
merrell Jungle Slide - Men’s and Women’s $169.00
It’s finally back, we’ve waited many years for the
Jungle Slide to return. With the same comfort loved
by wearers of the Jungle Moc this slide provides an
even easier slip on to add to the family collection.
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ
Merrell Moab Speed - Women’sl $259.00
The world’s most popular hiking boot taken a step
further. The Moab Speed is faster, lightweight
hybrid. Our ventilated version suitable for hot
summer days on the trail are now back in stock for
both Women and Men.
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ
glerups The Slip-on Forest Honey Rubber $179.00
Looking for a versatile, comfortable, odorless
slipper? Made with 100% wool, take your glerups
on every adventure. Relax and recover in glerups.
WWW.GLERUPS.CO.NZ
hoka CHALLENGER ATR 6 $269.95
This adaptable, all-terrain shoe defies convention —
performing light on the trail and smooth on the street,
thanks to its midsole geometry and outsole construction.
Dynamically designed for versatile traction, its distinctive
outsole has zonal construction to optimize grip and
weight. Developed with broad, closely spaced zonal
lugs, the Challenger ATR 6’s outsole delivers smooth
transitions from one surface to another. This season’s
iteration utilizes recycled UNIFI Reprieve yarn derived
from post-consumer waste plastic.
WWW.HOKA.CO.NZ
Keen Targhee Waterproof Mid Boot (Women’s) $289.99
The Targhee collections fit, durability and performance
have earned it a loyal following over the past 15 years.
With a bold new design, this update is tough, lean and
ready or the next chapter of epic adventure.
WWW.KEENFOOTWEAR.CO.NZ
72//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

FEATURED FOOTWEAR
Keen Targhee Waterproof Mid Boot (Men’s) $289.99
The Targhee collections fit, durability and performance
have earned it a loyal following over the past 15 years.
With a bold new design, this update is tough, lean and
ready or the next chapter of epic adventure.
WWW.KEENFOOTWEAR.CO.NZ
Keen Ridge Flex Waterproof Boot (Women’s) $349.99
What if every step could feel easier? Meet the e-bike
of hiking boots, built with KEEN.BELLOWS FLEX
technology to flex where you do. We took the trusted
fit of our iconic Targhee hiker and paired it with our
new KEEN.BELLOWS FLEX technology to flex
easier and reduce the energy.
WWW.KEENFOOTWEAR.CO.NZ
Keen Ridge Flex Waterproof Boot (Men’s) $349.99
What if every step could feel easier? Meet the
e-bike of hiking boots, built with KEEN.BELLOWS
FLEX technology to flex where you do. We took the
trusted fit of our iconic Targhee hiker and paired it
with our new KEEN.BELLOWS FLEX technology to
flex easier and reduce the energy.
WWW.KEENFOOTWEAR.CO.NZ
KEEN NXIS (woMen’s)
The faster you go, the farther you go, the more you’ll
see. That means more alpine hikes, more sunset
views, and an extra-full camera roll. Splash through
every puddle, hop across rocks, and slide through
scree. Our lightest hiker to date with the KEEN
famous fit and all-terrain tread, NXIS is ready for
whatever your A to B looks like.
• Famous Comfort: Fit 18 years in the making,
our original fit holds your heel firmly in place
while giving your toes room to spread out.
• All-Terrain Tread: Our proprietary horseshoe
tread has deep lugs for extra grip on any trail
surface.
• Iconic Toe Protection: Move fast with
confidence, not stubbed toes. The split toe cap
strikes a balance between protection and feel.
• Waterproof: Thanks to a breathable KEEN.DRY
waterproof membrane that keeps out water.
Available at WWW.KEENFOOTWEAR.CO.NZ FROM 1
MARCH 2022.
RRP: $349.99
KEEN NXIS (Men’s)
The faster you go, the farther you go, the more you’ll
see. That means more alpine hikes, more sunset
views, and an extra-full camera roll. Splash through
every puddle, hop across rocks, and slide through
scree. Our lightest hiker to date with the KEEN
famous fit and all-terrain tread, NXIS is ready for
whatever your A to B looks like.
• Famous Comfort: Fit 18 years in the making,
our original fit holds your heel firmly in place
while giving your toes room to spread out.
• All-Terrain Tread: Our proprietary horseshoe
tread has deep lugs for extra grip on any trail
surface.
• Iconic Toe Protection: Move fast with confidence,
not stubbed toes. The split toe cap strikes a
balance between protection and feel.
• Waterproof: Thanks to a breathable KEEN.DRY
waterproof membrane that keeps out water.
Available at WWW.KEENFOOTWEAR.CO.NZ FROM 1
MARCH 2022.
RRP: $349.99

Marmot Wm’s Beta tank $79.95
On an early morning climb, hike, or run,
and the heat's already working against
you? That's when the lightweight Women's
Beta Tank Top comes in handy. Quickdrying,
moisture-wicking AirExchange
fabric offers exceptional breathability and
keeps you comfortable even if you break
out in a sweat. Its sleeveless style won't
weigh you down or interfere with mobility,
and the mesh racerback detail blends in
with your sports bra.
WWW.MARMOTNZ.CO.NZ
Marmot Wallace Polo $109.95
When you need to be on your best
behavior, the Wallace Polo Short Sleeve
errs on the side of conservative. Despite
the relaxed look with a three-button
placket, the drirelease performance fabric
allows this lightweight polo to quickly
dry and breathe while maintaining a soft
feel. Flat-locked seams sit comfortably,
minimizing at least one irritation in
uncomfortable dinner table situations.
WWW.MARMOTNZ.CO.NZ
Marmot Aerobora SS $99.95
When you need to be on your best
behavior, the Wallace Polo Short Sleeve
errs on the side of conservative. Despite
the relaxed look with a three-button
placket, the drirelease performance fabric
allows this lightweight polo to quickly
dry and breathe while maintaining a soft
feel. Flat-locked seams sit comfortably,
minimizing at least one irritation in
uncomfortable dinner table situations.
WWW.MARMOTNZ.CO.NZ
Marmot Wm’s Kodachrome short $119.95
Climbs, technical hikes, and adventurous
scrambles—the Women's Kodachrome
Shorts with 10-inch inseam prepare you
for all. The abrasion-resistant nylon can
handle the jagged branches and rough
rocks you might encounter, while the
stretch construction and inseam gusset
allow for plenty of mobility. The moisturewicking
DriClime® waistband and quickdrying
fabric help reduce chafing so you
stay comfortable. Keep small essentials
securely stowed in the zipper pocket.
WWW.MARMOTNZ.CO.NZ
Macpac Men’s Weekender Shorts $109.99
Designed to look like they’re made from
a cotton canvas, these shorts are actually
made from an abrasion resistant, moisture
wicking nylon/elastane blend for functional
performance. Triple stitching increases
strength where it’s needed, six pockets provide
plenty of space for adventure essentials, and
yes, they can be worn any day of the week.
WWW.MACPAC.CO.NZ
Macpac Limitless Bra $69.99
Seamless, supportive and anti-odour treated, the
Limitless Bra is ideal for low to medium impact
activity. Its body-mapped design increases airflow,
its unique moisture-wicking fabric optimises
performance, and the generous elastane rib
ensures a snug fit that doesn’t compromise
freedom to move. Made with Polygiene®
technology for permanent odour control.
WWW.MACPAC.CO.NZ
Macpac Women’s Winger Shorts $89.99
These classic go anywhere, do anything shorts
are a redesigned staple. Initially made for hikers
in the 90s, the nylon taslan they’re crafted from
these days is moisture-wicking and water ready,
with a soft peach finish and a small zipped key
pocket built into the side seam. Great for days in
and around the hills, rivers, lakes, and shores. Also
available in sizes and colours for the whole family.
WWW.MACPAC.CO.NZ
74//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

Marmot Featherless Hybrid Jacket $349.95
The lightweight Men's Featherless Hybrid Jacket
will keep you warm and dry in chilly, damp weather
without weighing down you or your pack. 3M
Thinsulate Recycled Featherless Insulation is
made with 75% recycled loose-fill fibers that feel
just as warm as 700 fill power down, but still perform
in wet conditions. DriClime® Bi-Component lining
wicks away moisture to keep you dry.
WWW.MARMOTNZ.CO.NZ
Macpac Craigieburn Merino Blend Hooded Jackets $199.99
An easy-wearing option with plenty of utility, the merino
blend this jacket is made from combines the natural
warmth and odour resistance of merino wool with the
strength of polyester in a soft terry knit. The result? A
versatile hoody that’s smooth on the outside, cosy on the
inside, and easy to care for.
WWW.MACPAC.CO.NZ
Macpac Women’s Limitless Hoody $109.99
No matter the activity, the Limitless is ready.
This seamless hoody is body mapped for
performance and made from a nylon/polyester
knit, with strategic mesh that adds structure
and increases airflow. Polygiene® treatment
uses recycled silver to add permanent odour
control, and a touch of reflective detailing
increases visibility after dark.
WWW.MACPAC.CO.NZ
marmot PreCip ECO Rain Jacket
(Mens & Womens & Wms Plus & Kids) $199.95
Bold colour blocking and athletic inspiration make the
Women's PreCip® Eco Anorak the waterproof shell
you'll want to keep you dry on everything from outdoor
concerts to trips to the trails. Comfort and repelling
rain won't be an issue thanks to the waterproof and
breathable 2.5-layer Marmot NanoPro fabric and
100% taped seams. The attached hood, elastic cuffs
and adjustable drawcord hem add extra weather
protection. When it's time to go, this packable jacket
stuffs into its own pocket.People/Product/Planet®
Sustainably designed and manufactured in keeping
with our commitment to minimum impact and
maximum performance.
WWW.MARMOTNZ.CO.NZ
Marmot Arch Rock pant $149.95
Head for the hills, trails, and mountains in the
performance-ready Arch Rock Pants. The
abrasion-resistant nylon can handle the jagged
branches and rough rocks you might encounter,
while the stretch construction and inseam gusset
allow for plenty of mobility when you need to
sidestep an obstacle.
WWW.MARMOTNZ.CO.NZ
RAB FILAMENT HOODY $179.95
Our Women’s Filament Hoody is built
for high-output pursuits in cold winter
conditions. It uses a lightweight,
fast-wicking Thermic recycled
fleece with a 7% elastane content
for plenty of stretch on difficult
ascents. From arduous backcountry
ski tours to extreme alpine ascents,
it’s a supremely versatile mountain
midlayer.
WWW.OUTFITTERSSTORE.CO.NZ
RAB PULSE HOODY $99.95
Lightweight and fast drying, the
Pulse Hoody is a versatile technical
baselayer, ideal for multi-day climbing
and trekking trips.
WWW.OUTFITTERSSTORE.CO.NZ
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//75

Macpac Amp H²O 2L Hydration Pack $99.99
Go further, deeper, or higher on your next
training run or hike with this pared back
hydration pack. Its integrated bladder and
pockets are big enough to carry fluids,
snacks and an extra layer. It’s small
enough to keep out of the way, and its
ventilated AirMesh back panel fits snug
so that the only thing moving fast is you.
Also available in a 1L size for young
adventurers ($79.99)
WWW.MACPAC.CO.NZ
Macpac Child Carriers $399.99 -$499.99
Fostering their love for the outdoors (or satisfying
your own urges to get out there) shouldn’t be
a mission in itself. Macpac’s adjustable child
carriers take the hassle out of how they’re going
to enjoy it with you, and they’ve got two options
for growing families. The Possum is the smaller
of the two and it has 9L of storage on the back.
The larger Vamoose comes with 19L of base
storage, the Sombrero sunshade, Rainbow rain
cover, and a detachable 9L daypack. Both are
rated to 20kg max weight.
WWW.MACPAC.CO.NZ
marmot Kompressor Comet $79.95
Day hikes, daily bike commutes, and the everyday
grind--we've updated the ultralight Kompressor Comet
pack for maximum comfort and portability, wherever
you find yourself. Ripstop shoulder straps, lightweight
compression straps, and sternum straps keep this
daypack in place without being cumbersome. We made
deeper pockets and added a bike light loop for safety.
The zipper closure makes it easy to reach in and grab
what you need. The Kompressor Comet stows into its
own internal pocket for use as a stuff sack on the go.
WWW.MARMOTNZ.CO.NZ
Macpac Torlesse Hiking Pack Range $229.99-$499.99
This tried and true design is ideal for every kind
of hike. Its single compartment keeps everything
simple, the combination of Cordura® and ripstop
nylon offers durability you can count on, and the
variety of adjustable harnesses across the range
offer hours of support. Each pack has external
pockets and an integrated rain cover.
Available in 30–65L sizes
WWW.MACPAC.CO.NZ
marmot Kompressor Comet plus $119.95
We've taken our popular ultra-light Kompressor pack
and added more features and space, while retaining
the same amazing compressible performance and
comfort. A front organization pocket is perfect for maps,
lamps, and other on-hand essentials. The entire thing
packs into its own lid!
WWW.MARMOTNZ.CO.NZ
LOWE ALPINE ESCAPE FLIGHT 36L CABIN
BACKPACK $229.95
When you want the freedom of
baggage-free travel for a lightweight
city break or a weekend away, the
cabin-compatible Escape Flight 36
is the zero-fuss way to get there. As
a purpose-built cabin backpack, the
Lowe Alpine Escape Flight 36 puts
security and accessibility at the heart
of its design.
WWW.OUTFITTERSSTORE.CO.NZ
LOWE ALPINE AIRZONE TREK ND33:40L HIKING
BACKPACK WOMEN'S $429.95
Light and comfortable, the ventilated
AirZone Trek ND33:40 women’s hiking
backpack is ideal for lightweight hutto-hut
trips and long-distance summer
hiking. The women’s fit AirZone ND33:40
hiking pack provides a supportive, cool
and comfortable carry. It features our
award-winning, fully adjustable AirZone+
ventilated carry system, with patented
FormKnit technology for all-day
comfort, however intense the hike.
WWW.OUTFITTERSSTORE.CO.NZ
76//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

Patagonia Black Hole® Duffel 70L $249.99
Made from lightweight yet extremely durable, 100%
recycled polyester ripstop that’s weather-resistant,
abrasion-resistant and highly packable. It easily swallows a
week’s worth of stuff, yet with padded removable shoulder
strap, and removable backpack straps it's ergonomic for
carrying comfort. There's even exterior daisy chains for
lashing any extras you amass while away!
WWW.PATAGONIA.CO.NZ
Patagonia Arbor Roll Top Pack $249.99
The Arbor Roll-Top Pack accommodates various loads,
with more room when unrolled and slightly more water
protection when closed tightly; includes quick side access to
15" laptop sleeve and side stash pocket for small items. It's
Fair Trade Certified sewn with solution-dyed and 100%
recycled fabrics to save water and reduce CO2 emissions
compared to conventional methods.
WWW.PATAGONIA.CO.NZ
RAB ESCAPE KIT BAG LT 50 $159.95
Our Escape Kit Bags have evolved from our
Expedition Kit Bags, but with a focus on lightweight
durability for adventure travel. Designed with a
handle that converts to a harness it can be worn as
a backpack for hauling between terminals or short
walks to your campsite.
WWW.OUTFITTERSSTORE.CO.NZ
osprey Rolling Transporter 40 $349.99
Carry-on sized duffel for organising and
protecting smaller gear or clothing items. Ideal
as a standalone, or to complement larger
duffels, and great for a weekend adventuring.
Features include a HighRoad Chassis with
a lightweight aluminium frame, extendable
handle and oversized wheels that handle most
surfaces, TPU coated heavy-duty fabrics and
overlapping rainflap zips to protect your gear
from the elements plus multiple handles for
easy handling.
WWW.SOUTHERNAPPROACH.CO.NZ
osprey Sojourn 60L Wheeled Convertible
Travel Pack $499.99
Proven and rugged HighRoad Chassis
for smooth rolling and a torso adjustable
stowaway, padded harness with tensioned
back panel for comfort when carrying the
pack backpack style. Features include a
retractable handle, padded grab handles,
a top zipped liquids pocket, internal and
external compression straps, internal
organisation pockets, daisy chains to attach
extra gear and the ability to add an Osprey
Daylite Daypack for flexibility and extra
storage (sold separately).
WWW.SOUTHERNAPPROACH.CO.NZ
osprey Transporter Global Carry-On Bag
$229.99
Streamlined design meets most global
carry-on size regulations and is full of
travel-specific features. Padded handles
plus a shoulder strap, opens out flat for
easy packing and unpacking. Internal
dividers keep your clothes and gear
organised, while on the outside you'll
find a toiletries pocket, a front panel
organisation pocket, a laptop sleeve and a
hidden RFID-safe pocket for your passport
and wallet.
WWW.SOUTHERNAPPROACH.CO.NZ

FEATURED SLEEPING BAG
The Macpac Dragonfly 400
On my last hike to the Whakapapaiti Hut, I took the
new Macpac Dragonfly 400 sleeping bag. A lightweight
three-season bag, the compression style stuff pack
and weighing in at only 731g meant it took up very little
room in my pack.
During my previous trips to the backcountry hut, I had
found the overnight temperature extremely variable.
Although when the fire is stoked the huts are warm, the
minute the fire goes out the temperature can plummet.
The Macpac Dragonfly 400 adjustable face hole and
hood system is super simple and as well as providing a
good holding spot for my “pillow” it also pulled in super
snug, keeping my neck and body free from the cold air.
The mummy fit is designed to maximise heat while
minimising weight and I found I liked the feel of the
bag snug around my legs. The Dragonfly is purpose
built for minimal weight so they have really stripped
back the features. This means no weight is wasted on
unnecessary gimmicks, so the zip only runs a third of
the way down. This is ideal for warm nights but my feet
often run hot so I am yet to see if I have any issues on
a warmer night.
Without a doubt for me, the feature I love the most is
the material it is made with. I have a tendancy to toss
and turn at night and I am usually very conscious of
the noise a sleeping bag makes every time you move,
however both the inner and outer fabric makes minimal
sound, which I loved.
The sleeping bag comes with a compression style stuff
pack as well as a mesh bag for storage when unused
for long periods of time. This helps maintain loft.
The technical details:
• Filled with 400g of 800 loft HyperDRY RDS
Goose Down which gives great compressibility for
a smaller pack size.
• Inner lined with bluesign® certified nylon
• Outer made with its Pertex® Quantum using their
Y Fuse technology to increase durability and
performance around snow.
• Water resistant HyperDRY RDS goose down
• Adjustable face hole and hood
• Box baffles
• Concealed drawcords
• Increased fill in the draft collar
• 3-coil ⅓ zip
• Temperature Rating: Comfort 1°C / Limit -5°C /
Extreme -22°C
• Weight: 731g
RRP: $699.99
MACPAC CLUB PRICE: $489.99
WWW.MACPAC.CO.NZ
Compression style stuff pack means
it packs up small
When you are not using your bag,
keep it in the mesh storage bag to
help mainatin loft
Simple adjustable hood area helps
keeps out the cold
Marmot Tungsten 2P $549.00
Ready to adventure with you mile after mile, the freestanding Tungsten
2-Person Tent blends durability, roominess, and a livable design. Strategic
clip placement offers more interior volume after a long day on the mountain.
If a downpour approaches, the colour-coded "easy pitch" clips and poles
make for a quick set up, and the seam-taped, catenary-cut floor and
full-coverage vented fly add to its weather protection. Dual doors allow
easy entry and exit with vestibule storage space around both doors. The
lampshade pocket stows your headlamp and the included abrasion-resistant
footprint round out the details that make life on the trail easier.
WWW.MARMOTNZ.CO.NZ
Marmot catalyst 2p $499.o0
Designed as a roomy, livable tent that doesn’t weigh you down, the
freestanding Catalyst 2-Person Tent has all the ideal features for a casual
camping trip. Its strategic clip placement offers more interior volume for
stretching out after a long day of adventuring. The seam-taped catenarycut
floor and full-coverage vented fly add to its weather protection, plus the
included footprint protects this camping tent from abrasions. Stash your
pack, poles, and other gear in the two vestibules and tuck a headlamp into
the lampshade pocket for ambient light at night.
WWW.MARMOTNZ.CO.NZ
78//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

Macpac Uber Synthetic Quilt $99.99
This cosy synthetic quilt is made for moment’s that
could use a little extra warmth. Its nylon outer can be
wiped, brushed or shaken clean. The micro padding
fill is 100% recycled, and its pillow-shaped stuff sack
makes the quilt useful even when it’s stashed away.
Think picnics at the beach, starry nights around the
campfire, and crisp mornings on the deck.
WWW.MACPAC.CO.NZ
EPE Comas Swag Bag -5 °C Sleeping Bag $199.00
Purposely designed for rugged adventures and
oversized for comfort. The EPE Swagbag features
a hollow fibre layered filling for superior thermal
efficiency when warmth is needed the most. .
WWW.KIWICAMPING.CO.NZ
kiwi camping Rover Lite 3cm Self-Inflating Mat $109.00
Compact to pack and carry, the Rover Lite self-inflates
in minutes. The tapered design can fit in a sleeping
bag, 1830mm long and 550mm wide.
WWW.KIWICAMPING.CO.NZ
sea to summit Aeros Premium travel Pillow $59.99
Inflatable, ergonomic, designed to provide exceptional
comfort when sleeping in an upright position while
keeping bulk and weight to a minimum. High strength
TPU bladder, shaped with bulbous arms for more neck
support than traditional neck pillows and the centre is
extra thin, so it doesn't apply pressure to the back of
your neck when pressed into a headrest. Features an
adjustable neck closure. 93gm.
WWW.SOUTHERNAPPROACH.CO.NZ
Kiwi Camping Tuatara Hard Shell Rooftop Tent $4,499.00
The low-profile Tuatara HS is built to handle serious adventures from summit to
sea. Ripstop polycotton makes it ideal for backcountry conditions and the pop-up
gas struts enable instant pitching.
WWW.KIWICAMPING.CO.NZ
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//79

Kiwi Camping hub lantern $84.99
Powerful and functional, the
Hub LED Lantern provides
an impressive 360 degrees of
super bright LED light. Charge
your devices or invert and hang
upside down.
WWW.KIWICAMPING.CO.NZ
Ceramic Fluxring Cookpot 1.5L $159.95
Take backcountry cooking to the next
level. Our 1.5 FluxRing Cook Pot is a
backcountry essential for solo or group
cooking, and a new ceramic coating
allows for amped up cooking and even
easier cleaning. Gone are the days of
boring camp food sticking to the bottom
of your pot. It’s time to elevate your next
backcountry experience.
WWW.JETBOILNZ.CO.NZ
MiniMo $329.95
MiniMo delivers UNMATCHED simmer
control, metal handles, and a low spoon
angle for easy eating! Starting with the
innovative new valve design, MiniMo
delivers the finest simmer control of any
upright canister system on the market.
Thanks to our proprietary regulator
technology and enhanced regulator
diaphragm, MiniMo ensures this consistent
performance down to 20ºF (-6ºC). Its
redesigned cooking cup, the perfect
combination of size, sturdy metal handles,
and optimized height, provides users with
an easy-to-eat experience.
WWW.JETBOILNZ.CO.NZ
Gasmate Turbo Butane Stove & Pot Set $139.00
For quick boiling when you need it! A super
lightweight aluminium stove with stainless
steel burner, piezo ignition, stabilising feet and
accessories all packaged in a mesh carry bag.
WWW.KIWICAMPING.CO.NZ
jetboil STASH Cooking System $299.95
The lightest and most compact jetboil
ever. We know your dreams are big
and ambitious. Which is why we
designed the all-new Stash to be
lightweight and compact, maximizing
your pack space without sacrificing
that iconic Jetboil performance. At
7.1 oz or 200 g, the .8L Stash is 40%
lighter than the .8L Zip.
WWW.JETBOILNZ.CO.NZ
Flash 2.0 $249.85
Blistering boil times come standard
on our industry-leading Flash. By
modelling the combustion and
selecting materials to optimize
efficiency, we were able to create
the fastest Jetboil ever—cutting a
full minute off our best boil time. The
Flash cooking system lights with
the click of a button and in just 100s
provides two cups (500ml) of boiling
water for cocoa, coffee, instant soup
or a gourmet freeze-dried meal.
WWW.JETBOILNZ.CO.NZ
80//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

sunsaver classic 16,000 mah solar
power bank $119.00
Built tough for the outdoors and with a
massive battery capacity you can keep
all your devices charged no matter where
your adventure takes you.
WWW.SUNSAVER.CO.NZ
Summit Skillet $119.95
The nonstick Summit Skillet packs the performance and
punch of home cookware into a compact, lightweight,
elegant, solution designed for the backpacker set. The
ceramic-coated nonstick aluminum construction heats quickly
and evenly, expanding the potential of backcountry cooking.
Coated with , PFOA-free ceramic nonstick, the skillet
releases eggs, pancakes, and other foods easily, making
cleanup a breeze. A perfectly angled turner nests into the
handle, helping you flip foods without fuss. The skillet pairs
perfectly with Jetboil-regulated cooking systems and the
Jetboil pot support. Skillet measures 8 by 8.5 by 1.9 inches
and weighs 10.6 ounces.
WWW.JETBOILNZ.CO.NZ
pacsafe RFIDsafe V100 RFID Blocking Bifold Wallet $60.00
This sporty looking wallet keeps your cash and cards safe
from unauthorised transactions with its RFID blocking
material. It has 9 card slots, a zip-secure cash sleeve
and comes with an adjustable cut-resistant wrist strap to
ensure it stays with you.
WWW.BIVOUAC.CO.NZ
hydroflask 24oz (710mL) Lightweight
Wide Mouth Trail Series: Topaz, Slate,
Obsidian, Clay $99.99
Our Lightweight Trail Series flasks
are 25% lighter, making it easier to
take your hot or cold drink wherever
your adventure takes you.
WWW.HYDROFLASK.CO.NZ/
COLLECTIONS/TRAIL-SERIES
kiwi camping Ripper Stool $27.99
A lightweight, compact stool with integrated
carry strap for easy transportation. Wide
feet are ideal for instant seating on soft
ground. Features durable polyester with
sturdy steel frame.
WWW.KIWICAMPING.CO.NZ
KEA KIT: Outdoor Survival System $279.99
Be fully prepared for your next adventure with KEA KIT. The compact, modular
and durable survival kit that includes everything you need & nothing you don’t.
WWW.KEAOUTDOORS.COM
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//81

BACK COUNTRY CUISINE:
The first thing you’ll notice is that the front label on their pouches have changed
for the better by adding Health Star Ratings and energy, protein, fat and carbs
per pouch. They have also improved the readability of our back labels.
Back Country Cuisine is available at leading retailers.
For more information or to find your nearest stockist visit:
www.backcountrycuisine.co.nz
tasty chicken mash $9.49 - $13.99
With smoky flavoured freeze dried chicken, cheese
and vegetables.
3.5 Health Stars - Gluten Free
Available small serve (90g) or regular (175g)
WWW.BACKCOUNTRYCUISINE.CO.NZ
Apple & Berry Crumble $13.19
A sweet mix of freeze dried apples and berries topped
with a delicious gluten free cookie crumb.
3 Health Stars - Gluten Free
WWW.BACKCOUNTRYCUISINE.CO.NZ
TIRED
ARMS?
TRY OUR NEW
TASTY CHICKEN
MASH DINNER.
INSTANT PASTA $4.89
Just add boiling water for perfectly cooked
pasta.
3.5 Health Stars
Sizes – Family 120g
WWW.BACKCOUNTRYCUISINE.CO.NZ
Epic coffee Drip Filter’s
Single from $2.99, 10 Pack from $24.99
Your favourite new adventure essential – specialty coffee,
roasted in micro-batches and loaded into adventure-proof
drip filters. Proceeds from every product sold are donated to
ONETREEPLANTED.
WWW.EPICCOFFEE.CO.NZ
Guilt free dinning since 98!
backcountrycuisine.co.nz
Hey Piña 440ml: Fruited Sour 4.5%
ABV $8.99
For decades the pineapple, or 'Piña',
in Spanish, was South America's
precious little secret. The now
famous sweetness blends sublimely
with the vibrant raspberry, balanced
with zesty lime.winter.
WWW.DCBREWING.CO.NZ
Mango Tango 440ml: Fruited Sour 5%
ABV$8.99
Mango Tango is a magical fusion of
tropical flavours. Mango and Passionfruit
form an elegant connection, embracing
with a vibrant and playful expression of
aromas. Sweet and sour perfection.
WWW.DCBREWING.CO.NZ
Berrylicious 440ml: Fruited Sours 4.5%
ABV $8.99
Packed full of Blackberries, cherries
and raspberries. Berrylicious is vibrant
and juicy, with a perfect mix of sweet
and sour berry flavours, balanced with
light tartness and subtle floral and
earthy overtones.
WWW.DCBREWING.CO.NZ

FEED YOUR ADDICTION
Like a ‘perfect storm’, we have seen a dramatic growth and
development in online stores over the past 5 years. Now as we are
made to keep our ‘distance’, online, ecommerce takes on a whole
new meaning and value. We are dedicating these pages to our client’s
online stores; some you will be able to buy from, some you will be able
drool over. Buy, compare, research and prepare, these online stores are
a great way to feed your adventure addiction while you are still at home.
Never have a dead phone
again! Because now you can
charge straight from the Sun
with SunSaver. Perfect for
that week-long hike, day at
the beach, or back-up for any
emergency. Check us out at:
www.sunsaver.co.nz
www.packraftingqueenstown.com
Specialising in
small group guided
packrafting trips and
courses from our base
in Queenstown New
Zealand.
www.adventuresouth.co.nz
Whether you enjoy
cycle trails, road
cycling, mountain
biking or walking,
Adventure South NZ
can help you to explore
New Zealand at
your own pace.
Full-service outfitter selling hiking
and mountaineering gear and
apparel, plus equipment rentals.
Specialising in ski & snowboard
touring equipment new & used;
skis, boards, bindings, skins,
probs, shovels,transceivers &
avalanche packs.
www.smallplanetsports.com
Our motto is “Going the
distance” and we pride
ourselves on providing top
quality outdoor and travel
equipment and service
that will go the distance
with you, wherever that
may be.
www.trekntravel.co.nz
Gear up in a wide selection of durable, multifunctional
outdoor clothing & gear. Free Returns. Free Shipping.
www.patagonia.co.nz
Stocking an extensive range
of global outdoor adventure
brands for your next big
adventure. See them for travel,
tramping, trekking, alpine and
lifestyle clothing and gear.
www.outfittersstore.nz
Specialists in the sale of Outdoor Camping Equipment, RV,
Tramping & Travel Gear. Camping Tents, Adventure Tents,
Packs, Sleeping Bags and more.
www.equipoutdoors.co.nz
Our Mission
To bring like-minded adventurers together for epic journey’s
fuelled by top-notch coffee. All while supporting the things
we care about and restoring nature.
www.epiccoffee.co.nz
Our very own online store where
you will find hard goods to keep you
equipped for any adventure.
www.pacificmedia-shop.co.nz
84//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

Ultra lightweight running shoes, made by runners. No
matter where the trail takes you, Hoka One One will
have you covered.
www.hokaoneone.co.nz
PACKRAFT NZ
Unlock your adventure horizon with Packraft New Zealand.
Online supplier of Kokopelli packrafts, accessories and
adventure inspiration. Shop online or contact us for expert
advice for everything packrafting; hike-raft, bike-raft, hunt-raft,
whitewater, fishing, canyoneering, urban and travel.
www.packraftnewzealand.co.nz
Bivouac Outdoor stock the latest in quality outdoor
clothing, footwear and equipment from the best
brands across New Zealand & the globe.
www.bivouac.co.nz
Shop for the widest range of Merrell footwear, apparel
& accessories across hiking, trail running, sandals &
casual styles. Free shipping for a limited time.
www.merrell.co.nz
Whether you’re climbing mountains, hiking in the hills
or travelling the globe, Macpac gear is made to last
and engineered to perform — proudly designed and
tested in New Zealand since 1973.
www.macpac.co.nz
Living Simply is an outdoor clothing and equipment
specialty store in Newmarket, Auckland. Your go-to place
for quality footwear, packs, sleeping bags, tents, outdoor
clothing and more.
www.livingsimply.co.nz
Offering the widest variety,
best tasting, and most
nutrient rich hydration,
energy, and recovery
products on the market.
www.guenergy.co.nz
Fast nourishing freeze dried food for adventurers.
www.backcountrycuisine.co.nz
Jetboil builds super-dependable
backpacking stoves and camping
systems that pack light,
set up quick, and achieve
rapid boils in minutes.
www.jetboilnz.co.nz
Supplying tents and
camping gear to Kiwis
for over 30 years, Kiwi
Camping are proud to
be recognised as one of
the most trusted outdoor
brands in New Zealand.
www.kiwicamping.co.nz
With stores in Clyde and
Cromwell, Bike it Now! is
your access point to the
Central Otago Bike trials: T
> Lake Dunstan Trail
> Otago Central Rail Trail
> Roxbourgh Gorge
and more...
www.bikeitnow.co.nz
Excellent quality Outdoor
Gear at prices that can't
be beaten. End of lines.
Ex Demos. Samples. Last
season. Bearpaw. Garneau.
Ahnu. Superfeet.
www.adventureoutlet.co.nz

Boutique Sister Resorts
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium
Cook Islands.
LONELY PLANET’S
TOP Destination
to Visit in
2022!
Experience the Cook Islands’ Signature Beach Resort
• Rarotonga’s best 4 star Full-service beach resort | 111 rooms/suites/bungalow/villas
• Prime, secluded white sandy Aroa Beach | Best snorkelling in Aroa Lagoonarium Marine Sanctuary
• On Rarotonga’s southwest sunshine coast | Sizzling sunsets
• Extensive free activities - stand-up paddleboarding, snorkelling (all-tide), kayaking, tennis, gym,
beachfront swimming pool, learn to dance the hula, make a lei, play the ukulele, husk a coconut
• Kids & Teens Stay + Play FREE (to 16) | Free Moko Kids Club (4-11) | Free Teen Zone (12-16)
• Captain Andy’s Beach Bar & Grill l Function + conference facilities
• SpaPolynesia | Seventh Heaven All-Inclusive + Over The Moon Wedding Packages
• Sister resort to adjacent Sanctuary Rarotonga-on the beach
+ Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort (both adults-only)
Slip off your watch, your shoes, your cares and immerse yourself in Paradise
Aroa Beach + Lagoonarium | Rarotonga | COOK ISLANDS
toll free 0800 727 686 | P (+682) 25800
| info@therarotongan.com
www.TheRarotongan.com (Live Chat avail.)

READY AND WAITING
The Cook Islands are open...
The Cook Islands, on the 14th of January, opened to New Zealand for quarantine free travel! No MIQ, just a negative test and you are
on your way to warm seas and sun filled beaches. But there is a lot more to the Cook Islands than proximity, stunning beaches, and
swaying palms, it is also a mecca for adventure; from its deep-sea fishing to its shallow lagoons for snorkeling and kiting. The Cook
Islands will keep you busy every day for as long as you want. Obviously, there are all the standard tourist ‘’to-do’’ options; the cultural
village, the coconut tree climbing demonstration, the glass bottom boats and trips out to smaller more remote islands. But here we will
outline a few adventures that you may not be aware of...
Group Paddle image thanks to KiteSUP Chasing big ones! Image by Marlin Queen
Image thanks to Adventure Cook Islands
Kiteboarders have known for years
what an amazing destination the
Cook Islands are for any wind-based
sport. But it is also an amazing place
to Learn to kiteboard because of the
Cook Islands shallow lagoon and
warm steady trade winds it is the
perfect place to learn to kiteboard.
There are companies such as Ariki
Adventures and KiteSup just to
mention a couple, who can give you
an introduction to kiteboarding, where
quickly you will have the opportunity to
experience the feeling of flying with an
inflatable kite and get you well on the
road to becoming proficient, in warm
safe water? The local tutors know the
best times, the best wind, and the tides
to make the learning experience fun.
As you would expect, with the
protection of the reef, the lagoon
is ideal for paddleboarding; with
very little swell, crystal-clear water
that is full of marine life. On your
paddleboard, which you can rent or
take a tour, you can access a range of
secluded islands and sandy parts of
the reef. There are several companies
that rent out paddleboards as do many
of the hotels and resorts. However,
if you are not a ‘’go it alone’’ kind of
guy or you just really want a add bit
of local knowledge there are those
running paddleboard tours like Lagoon
Explorer.
As with all South Pacific islands
fishing can be as much fun for
the really experienced down to the
complete novice. The Cook Islands
offer a lot of options like game fishing
with Marlin Queen fishing charter.
Tuna, marlin, Mahi mahi, they openly
brag they are out to get the big ones
and by the look of their website and
images they do just that. But there
are smaller operators like Reef and
Beach fishing tours which is a unique
concept. Mata George (aka Sunshine)
gives a half hour talk first about the
tide, water, and wind in Rarotonga. He
also tells of what not to touch or walk
on to protect the coral and visitors'
own safety. Then an explanation of
the different types of bait for different
types of fishing, what times to go out
and where to find the fish, pure local
knowledge.
Warm clear water and an abundance
of sea life leads to one major activity
- diving. In the Cook Islands some––
resorts, such as The Rarotongan
Beach Resort and Lagoonarium,
offer in house dive lessons, dive
experience and certification in their
hotel pool. There are also a range of
dive operators who can not only take
out qualified divers to experience the
pristine underwater world, but you
can also get PADI certified both in the
lagoon and for the open water.
There are also a range of great options
for trekking. There are bush walks
you can do by yourself, but it is not
like New Zealand and if you wanted
to do a guided trek, like to the top of
Mt Rameau, which takes about 3-4
hours then it is suggested you go with
a local guide company like Adventure
Cook Islands. Wandering off on your
own might seem like fun, but there is
a lot of private land, and it is easy to
get lost.
Rarotonga is not a very big place, and
you can easily rent a scooter to get
around, (make sure you get a licence
from in town they are only $29.50) but
a nicer, quiet option is to bike. There
are again a range of rental options
plus some of the resorts have them
for hire. But you can do tours, it’s not
mountain biking as we know it with
downhill single track but it’s a way to
see the island and interact with the
locals. Like anywhere biking is a nice
way to meet the people, smell the air
and take in the view.
Basically, the Cook Islands have
been looking after tourist for a lot of
years, they are well established and
well prepared to make sure you can
basically do whatever it is you want
to do, easily, professional, and safely.
The hard part is choosing from so
much on offer!
88//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

Anyone can learn to kiteboard- image thanks to KiteSUP -
Image thanks to Adventure Cook Islands-
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//89

VANUATU'S OUTER
ISLANDS Top tips...
Vanuatu’s outer islands are rich in culture, landscape
and adventure, but before you book your flights and
hop over to this tropical paradise, it’s important to get
some tips to help you understand the nuance of this
family of islands. Here are eight things you need to
know before booking your Vanuatu escape.
Get used to island time: Make sure you don’t bring
your traditional approach to time and tourism to
Vanuatu. Sure, you may be told your charter flight
will leave the outer island airport at 2pm, or that your
driver will pick you up at 11am, but don’t be mad if
nobody arrives on time. It’s not done out of spite, or
laziness, there’s just no reason to rush. If you always
keep a good book tucked away in your backpack,
or a deck of cards, you’ll be just fine. Have a couple
of buffer days at the end of your trip as well, just in
case!
Tell your friends and family you’ll be back soon,
you’re going off-grid: It’s so easy to romanticise
going off grid – lying back under coconut palms,
floating in crystal clear waters. Being disconnected
from the cyber world can be both anxiety inducing
and incredible freeing. However, going ‘off-grid’ in the
outer islands of Vanuatu
means more than just no internet. It often means no
electricity either.
While the capital city of Port Vila and main tourism
towns have power and modern amenities, this is not
the case everywhere. Unplugging is part of the charm
of the remote islands of Vanuatu, but it does mean
you need to be prepared. Pack some spare batteries
for your camera and let your friends and family know
you may be out of contact for a few days. You can
get a local sim card, but they don’t work everywhere.
Understand that a lack of electricity will affect your
ability to have a hot shower, run a fan in the heat of
the day and flush a toilet. This is a great opportunity
to let it all go, soak up the sun and the culture, and
sink into Vanuatu life.
90//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

Pack your own snorkel
gear: If you’re a keen diver,
you’ll be overwhelmed by
just how many reefs there
are to explore. You won’t
always be able to source
gear to rent, so if you love
to explore the underwater
world, it’s best you bring
your own snorkel and
goggles. You never know
who you might meet under
there: a sleepy dugong,
a friendly turtle or an
excitable pod of dolphins.
Pack your hiking boots:
Vanuatu’s outer islands
aren't just isolated beaches
and fresh coconuts. There
are hundreds of hikes and
volcanoes and waterfalls
that will take your breath
away. Good (waterproof)
hiking boots are essential
if you’re the adventurous
type. Wet weather gear
wouldn’t be a bad idea
either– you never know
when the tropical rains
might hit.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, stock up on the main islands: There
are few stores dotted around the outer islands, but they don’t always
have the variety of snacks you may be craving – although the fruit
will be unbelievably good. If you fly into Santo or Port Vila, stock up
there. We recommend Aelan chocolate http://aelanchocolate.com/ –
it’s a local social enterprise that makes the most delicious chocolate,
with cocoa grown from the volcanic soil across the outer islands!
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//91

Book most of your activities when
you get there: I know it’s tempting to
book everything before you go – to
get on that plane with a clear plan and
a strict itinerary. But you can’t do that
for the outer islands of Vanuatu. And
that’s part of the magic. It’s part of the
essence of this network of islands.
It’s not about how much you can jam
pack into a small amount of time. It’s
not about aligning things this way and
that. It’s about immersing yourself into
the way of life of the Vanuatu people.
Your loose plans will change. You’ll
learn about an activity that wasn’t
listed online. If you come with a vague
idea but nothing set in stone, you’ll
leave yourself open to the unexpected
adventures that await in Vanuatu. You’ll
also see the most beautiful side of the
people who love to care and share – so
let them!
Get ready to dance: Often, when
you have the privilege of witnessing a
traditional cultural dance in an outer
island village, a smiling local will drag
you into the circle, teach you how to
move, and encourage you to dance
and sing. Embrace this! Move your hips
and stomp your feet and laugh with the
children. Once you allow yourself to let
go, you’ll be dancing your way across
the islands.
Be Prepared
While adventure is why we are here, drama is not. Realising that you
are going into remote areas where there is very little infrastructure,
adjust how you prepare your gear to suit this reality. Ensure you have
a good medical first aid kit, take plenty of cash (there are no ATMs in
the remote islands), insect repellents, bag liners for wet days, pack
spares of necessary items (batteries), medication and so on. Grab
what you need before you go.
More information can be found www.vanuatu.travel
92//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#230

vanuatu.travel

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Tongariro Crossing Packages: B&B, Shuttle, Lunch, From $266 -$417 per night
info@plateaulodge.co.nz | +64 7 8922993 | www.plateaulodge.co.nz
Your mobile
power solution
www.sunsaver.co.nz
Go further for longer on your next adventure with the Quest Bike Trailer.
The Quest Bike Trailer was born out of the stunning mountains of
Arthurs Pass in the South Island of New Zealand and developed to
withstand the roughest of journeys. A true triumph of Kiwi ingenuity and
a proven product to take you further for longer.
www.questbiketrailers.com

TONGARIRO CROSSING SHUTTLES
-come and hike through our magic landscape-
5.45am - 7.15am - 8.30am - 9.45am departures
$45per person for return trip
www.tongarirocrossingshuttles.co.nz
Tongariro National Park a Dual World Heritage Site
“Escape ordinary”
Caring luxury | Local flavour | One of a kind
Mountain bike clean up area and a secure mountain bike storage room available
1191 Pukaki Street, Rotorua
p: +64 7 348 4079 | w: regentrotorua.co.nz

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far corners of the earth. Learn how Gladiator can expand your boundaries at jeep.co.nz