Adventure 232

adventure 

where actions speak louder than words 

ISSUE 232 

JUN/JUL 2022 

NZ $10.90 incl. GST 

winter 

issue

Available Available from from leading leading retailers: retailers: 

Auckland: Auckland: Snowcentre 

Taupo: Taupo: Gordons Gordons 

Wellington: Gordons Gordons 

Canterbury: Gnomes Gnomes 

Wanaka: Wanaka: MT Outdoors MT Outdoors 

Queenstown: Small Small Planet Planet 

Dunedin: Dunedin: Beggs Beggs Ski Shop Ski Shop 

Distributed by Outfitters by Outfitters 

0800 0800 021 021 732 732 

www.black-crows.nz 

www.black-crows.nz

The media sucks! 

I clearly remember as a young teenager playing rugby league and 

I knew that we had two boys in the team that were over age and 

should not be playing. Every win was tainted. What was harder 

than knowing that you were not really winning fairly was knowing 

that your team, the guys you played for, were not someone you 

could be proud of and not a team I wanted to belong too. 

I feel the same way now about the media. 

The media has always been a bit like that. Historically whatever 

sold newspapers, was pushed to the front; not just current news 

but outrageous news, twisted headlines, the girl in a bikini on 

page three, that sort of approach. Then came along the women's 

weekly’s, showing images of movie stars on their day off to get 

beer-belly shots, or the no-makeup shots. Those tabloids that 

chased Princess Diana, hunting for a gossip shot, (that's a whole 

other editorial!). 

Move to the last few years, the news media has moved more 

and more online. As we all have struggled with covid, the media 

has not done its reputation any good. Whenever there is an 

opportunity to over sensationalise a covid issue they have 

leveraged people’s fear and worry to gain clicks – clicks, not to a 

news feature based on fact or even entertainment but feeding on 

fear and uncertainty just to get clicks. 

As we go to print Ruapehu has been making a few rumbling 

noises and the media has come out with 'Likelihood of eruption 

has certainly increased', ‘Mt Ruapehu tremors highest in nine 

years’ or ‘Mt Ruapehu has the strongest tremor in 20 years’ 

all with underlying rhetoric of the White Island tradegy. One 

website, with a misleading heading, pushed doom and disaster 

for the winter ski season. Then used a video of a professional 

volcanologist discussing the recent activity. If you listen to the 

expert, he says there is nothing to worry about, it is a usual cycle 

for this time of year, be aware but carry on as normal. 

As Adventure Magazine we wrote to the mainstream media and 

asked them to stop ramping up a story that had no base in truth 

because of the impact it would have on the livelihood of those 

who need the mountain to be fully open this year. 

Ruapehu has now started to fall out of the media clickbait limelight 

(the clicks must have started to fall off) and covid seems to be 

less of an issue. So the media has now started to hypothesise 

that there will be a massive spike in Covid numbers this winter 

and on top of that, we are about to be flooded with the Monkey 

Pox. All this just to set off our Covid alarm bell and get us clicking 

again. 

Scaremongering to create clickbait, to create revenue, is 

embarrassing for any of us in the media. It has become its own 

nasty pandemic. A pandemic to which there is no vaccine, so I 

guess the only cure is awareness. Don’t follow the negative hype; 

focus on the fun, the good, the right and the true. Winter is coming 

and rather than face it with Covid and Monkey Pox concerns we 

should be planning for an amazing winter season. This issue of 

Adventure will be low on the effects of Monkey Pox and high on 

how much fun winter can be. 

Let your concerns be about how often you can get to the 

mountain and not led by some clickbait incentive pulling at your 

fear strings. 

From the staff at Adventure enjoy winter 

Steve Dickinson - Editor 

your Adventure starts with Us 

23 Locations Nationwide | www.radcarhire.co.nz | 0800 73 68 23 | adventure@radcarhire.co.nz

page 10 

Image by Alpine Guides Image by Eric Skilling 

Image by Zhi Yuen 

page 22 

page 46 

#232 

10//A Winter's Dream 

Hiking Ruapehu 

20//Nim Purja 

Breaking records 

contents 

22//Nelson Lakes 

Lake Angelus, Sabine and Speargrass Huts 

28//Georgia 

A little known treasure 

34//Suffrage and Growth 

An accidental romance 

42//Winter Fishing 

They still have to eat 

48//Winter Mackenzie 

Standout moments 

55//Mindfulness 

The art of paying attention 

76//Adventure Travel 

Fiji | Niue | Tahiti | Rarotonga | Vanuatu 

plus 

62. gear guides 

94. active adventure 

FOLLOW US ON 

www.facebook.com/adventuremagnz 

adventuremagazine 

www.adventuremagazine.co.nz 

Nzadventuremag 

JOIN THE CONVERSATION 

#ADVENTUREMAGAZINE 

World Class Indoor Climbing 

First visit $25* then free for a week! 

Fantastic community, beginners 

welcome, boulder classes for all ages 

and abilities, inquire now. 

* Discounts for youths and own gear 

Student Mondays, entry $15 

www.northernrocks.co.nz 

@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 skiing 

Photo by Neil Kerr. 

Fraser McDougall & Sam Smoothy 

in the Richardson Mountains, 

New Zealand. 

For over thirty years Bivouac Outdoor has been proudly 100% New Zealand owned and committed to 

providing you with the best outdoor clothing and equipment available in the world. Gear to keep you dry, 

warm and safe either in-bounds, sidecountry or backcountry this season. Ski, board and gear hire plus full 

workshop and servicing facilities available this season at our Tower Junction (Christchurch) store. 

Supporting Aotearoa's Backcountry Heritage 

STORES NATIONWIDE 

www.bivouac.co.nz

BEHIND THE COVER 

Nirmal “Nims” Purja is seen on top of Mount Everest in Nepal on 

May 15, 2022. Nirmal 'Nims' Purja MBE haș claimed two more 

incredible world records after the intrepid mountaineer became 

the first person to summit three higher 8,000m peaks – Everest, 

Kanchenjunga, and Lhotse - in just under nine days and do the 

Everest to Lhotse traverse in 26 hours - both without oxygen. For 

the full story see page 20. 

Photographer by: Pemba Sherpa / Red Bull Content Pool 

SEXY AF 

A tasting team member dropped off a selection of Sexy AF alcohol 

free spirit products for a cocktail order. An intriguing product made 

from vegetable glycerin (perhaps another name for sugar), some 

have been awarded double gold at the World Spirit Competition. 

A striking label coupled with catchy names, the Friski whiski, 

AperTease, and Amar-oh combo really did taste like a cocktail with 

a reasonable mouthfeel for a non alcoholic drink. Promoting sober 

curious and mindful drinkers this product has certainly caught 

our attention. Mixed with some citrus, this easy going serve was 

smooth and delicious. 

For an equal parts serve 

1 jigger (22.5mls) AperTease @sexyafspirits 

1 jigger Friski Whiski 

1 jigger Amar-oh 

1 jigger freshly squeezed mandarin juice 

Juice of half a lime 

Shake with ice, double sieve, and garnish with mandarin 

segments. 

Follow @cocktailontherock | www.cocktailontherock.co.nz 

Find your AF products at www.clearheaddrinks.co.nz/ 

EDITOR & ADVERTISING MANAGER 

Steve Dickinson 

Mob: 027 577 5014 

steve@pacificmedia.co.nz 

ART DIRECTOR 

Lynne Dickinson 

design@pacificmedia.co.nz 

SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES 

subscribe at www.pacificmedia-shop.co.nz 

DISTRIBUTION 

Ovato, Ph (09) 979 3000 

OTHER PUBLICATIONS (HARDCOPY AND 

ONLINE) 

www.adventuremagazine.co.nz 

www.adventuretraveller.co.nz 

www.adventurejobs.co.nz 

www.skiandsnow.co.nz 

@adventurevanlifenz 

PUBLISHERS 

NZ Adventure Magazine is published six 

times a year by: 

Pacific Media Ltd, 

P.O.Box 562 

Whangaparaoa, New Zealand 

Ph: 0275775014 

Email: steve@pacificmedia.co.nz 

adventuremagazine.co.nz 

NZadventurebike 

adventurejobs.co.nz 

adventuretraveller.co.nz 

Contributions of articles and photos are welcome and must 

be accompanied by a stamped self-addressed 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.

BOBO.CO.NZ/SALEWA

80,000 followers can't be wrong 

JOIN THE CONVERSATION 

08//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#232

@ adventuremagazine 

@ adventuretraveller @ adventurevanlifenz

CENTRAL 

PLATEAU 

* 

A WINTER’S DREAM: 

COOL HIKES IN 

RUAPEHU 

Words by Adrift.co.nz Images by Zhi Yuen 

Just because its winter doesn’t mean 

you can’t go out and play. Hiking boots 

on and all rugged up in cosy woollen 

layers, there’s nothing like a winter’s 

day out exploring the great outdoors. 

With Tongariro National Park at your 

doorstep and the iconic triple peaks 

of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt 

Ngāuruhoe as your backdrop, head 

to Ruapehu to discover a network of 

world-class walking and hiking tracks 

made for intrepid explorers. 



"With Tongariro National Park 

at your doorstep and the iconic 

triple peaks of Mt Ruapehu, Mt 

Tongariro and Mt Ngāuruhoe as 

your backdrop, head to Ruapehu to 

discover a network of world-class 

walking and hiking tracks made for 

intrepid explorers." 

Tongariro Alpine Crossing 

When winter arrives, the otherworldly landscapes of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing 

are transformed to something beyond your wildest dreams. Renowned as one of the 

best one day hikes in the world, taking on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing during winter 

is a unique wilderness adventure best experienced with a guide. The elements are 

in full force with ice, snow, and alpine conditions to reckon with, so it is essential to 

go a professional guide. Additional preparation, equipment, specialised navigation, 

and high-level backcountry skills are essential to enjoy this winter expedition safely. 

Even if you’ve already done the Tongariro Alpine Crossing during the summer months, 

it’s another level of adventure during winter so book with a local guide to be able to 

rediscover this iconic hike to the fullest. 

Waitonga Falls 

A favourite with locals, Waitonga Falls is Tongariro National Park’s highest waterfalls 

at 39 metres high. With access from Ohakune Mountain Road, this 4 km easy and 

well-formed return track offers incredible views of Mt Ruapehu with majestic panorama 

from the Rotokawa pools alpine wetland area. The perfect spot to pause, reflect and 

take in natural wonders of this UNESCO Dual World Heritage site of geological and 

cultural significance. 

Tawhai Falls 

Short, sweet and a must-do for Lord of the Rings fans, the beautiful cascades of 

Tawhai Falls is an easy, 20-minute short walk easily accessible from roadside along 

State Highway 48 nearby National Park Village. This family friendly walk delivers 

gorgeous views from the top of the falls along with an easy to follow track to the 

bottom of the falls. 

Mounds Walk 

Come sundown, the quick and easy Mounds Walk is a great way to watch the sun go 

down as golden hues sweep over this unique landscape. Just a few minutes’ drive 

from National Park Village off of State Highway 48, the formed mounds is a stark 

reminder of the unique natural environment and geological wonders of NZ’s oldest 

National Park. 

Taranaki Falls 

Situated in the heart of Tongariro National Park, the Taranaki Falls Track is a 6 km 

loop, well-formed track that’s regarded as one of best short walks in the area - even 

during the winter months. Traverse dramatic volcanic terrain to the stunning Taranaki 

Falls as its alpine waters cascade 20 metres down to picturesque pools. On a clear 

day take in the spectacular views of Mt Ngāuruhoe and Mt Tongariro as you journey 

through alpine shrublands, mountain beech forest and volcanic soils. 

ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//13


Tama Lakes 

Popular year-round, the stunning Tama Lakes walk is a 

great alternative to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing that is 

phenomenal to experience during the winter season. This 

17.6 km track is an extension of the popular Taranaki 

Falls Track full of diverse terrain ranging from undulating 

tussock country, alpine lakes, and ancient lava flows. 

Regarded as an advanced tramping track, going guided 

is definitely the way to go for an unforgettable winter 

expedition to the Tama Lakes. 

Discover four seasons of incredible hikes and walks at 

www.visitruapehu.com

Terrace Restaurant & Bar Open daily 

5 minutes from Whakapapa Ski field 

Backpacker to Superior Family Accommodation 

On-Site Ski & Snowboard gear hire 

Skotel Alpine Resort | SkotelAlpineResort 

Ngauruhoe Place | Whakapapa Village, SH 48 

www.skotel.co.nz | info@skotel.co.nz 

+64 7 892 3719 | 0800 756 835 

COMFORTABLE 

ACCOMMATION 

ACCOMMODATION 

FROM DORM BEDS 

TO PRIVATE DOUBLE 

ENSUITE ROOMS 

CHALLENGING 

INDOOR 

CLIMBING WALL HALL 

OPEN DAILY 9AM-8PM 

OPEN DAILY 9AM - 8PM 

TONGARIRO 

VOLCANIC 

ADVENTURES 

BUS TO WHAKAPAPA 

SKI FIELD AND 

MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS 

MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS 

4 Findlay Street, National Park Park 3948 

nat.park.backpackers@xtra.co.nz 

07 892 2870 www.npbp.co.nz 

Dual Heritage 

Tongariro National Park 

Sky Waka Hot Deal 

2 Nights in a King Studio | Breakfast Daily | 2 x Sightseeing Pass Sky Waka 

2 x Mini Golf pass | $50 Food & Beverage Voucher 

BYO Bikes & explore our 4 biking trails from National Park Village 

Free wifi & parking | From NZD $599 

17 Carroll Street, National Park 3948 

info@plateaulodge.co.nz | +64 7 8922993 

www.plateaulodge.co.nz

RIDE IN 

RUAPEHU 

Ride to your own rhythm to take in the scale and serenity of Ruapehu’s Greater 

Outdoors. 

Magnificent mountain peaks, ancient rainforests, and forgotten worlds await, 

with spectacular suspension bridges and viaducts, historic relics and secret 

waterfalls to discover. 

Home to two Great Rides and options for all abilities, there’s plenty of 

two-wheeled adventure to be had in Ruapehu. 

VISITRUAPEHU.COM

RIDING RUAPEHU 

ADVENTURE THROUGH TIME AND SPECTACULAR SCENERY ON RUAPEHU’S GREAT RIDES 

From the UNESCO Dual World Heritage site of 

Tongariro National Park to the waterways and byways of 

Whanganui National Park, wind your way through alpine 

villages, mountain towns and historic relics to discover 

the best of Ruapehu by bike. 

Home to the Timber Trail and Mountains to Sea - Ngā 

AraTūhono, two of New Zealand’s Great Rides. Ruapehu 

offers over 400 km of epic trails of local gems and worldclass 

rides to discover. 

The Timber Trail 

Distance: 85km 

Grade: 2-3 

The Timber Trail follows the path of old logging roads, 

and the historic bush tramlines through Pureora Forest 

Park. A testament to forward thinking environmentalists 

who protested against native logging in 1978, this area 

is one of the last remaining intact podocarp forests in 

New Zealand. Highlights of the trail include spectacular 

suspension bridges, giant ancient trees and fascinating 

relics from the area’s timber milling history. There’s also 

the Ongarue Spiral, an engineering marvel and great 

fun to ride over and then down through a tunnel under 

the track. The trail is normally ridden over two days with 

memorable accommodation available at Piropiro, the 

midway point. There are two lodges, a campsite, and 

fully serviced glamping here, nestled into a remote bush 

setting. Tour operators offer packages with shuttles and 

accommodation to make the planning easy. 

Ohakune Old Coach Road 


Grade: 3 

The Ohakune Old Coach Road follows the route of the 

old dray road between Ohakune and Horopito. This day 

ride is full of surprises and incredibly beautiful, taking in 

some magnificent railway heritage including two striking 

viaducts and a spooky old tunnel. It offers some fantastic 

views over the volcanic plateau of Tongariro National 

Park, and some spectacular sections regenerating native 


Main image: Spectacular scenery on the Timber Trail 

Above top to bottom: Mountain Biking The Marton Sash and Door Trail / Ohakune Old Coach Road 

bush. You can ride the trail in both directions as an out 

and back, or take a shuttle to ride the trail in a mostly 

downhill direction from Horopito back to Ohakune, where 

you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy some mountain village 

hospitality after your ride. 

Mangapurua Track (Bridge to Nowhere) 


Grade: 3* 

The Mangapurua Track is a classic back country ride, with 

a spectacular finale. The trail starts deep in Ruatiti Valley 

with a steady climb over a saddle and into the remote 

Mangapurua Valley, a long-abandoned farming settlement 

surrounded by bush-clad hills and dramatic bluffs. 

The ride and the riveting story that goes along with it end 

at the Bridge to Nowhere, a graceful concrete monument 

to the settlers’ broken dreams. 

Then on down to the Whanganui River. When the ride 

is over, your next adventure begins! Load your bikes 

onto the back of a jet boat for an invigorating ride out to 

Pipiriki. You’ll need to book your transport in advance, and 

local tour operators offer packages with shuttles and jet 

boat ride.*In or after significant rain, may ride as a grade 

4. Check track status on the Official Mountains To Sea 

website before riding. 

Mountains to Sea - Ngā Ara Tūhono 

Ohakune Old Coach Road and the Mangapurua are part 

of the Mountains to Sea Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride. If 

you’re looking for a varied multi-day ride from the top of 

Turoa ski field right to the Tasman Sea at Whanganui, 

there are a couple of options to choose from, the Classic 

Experience, or the Adventure Route, or sections of the 

track make great day rides. Have a look at Fishers Track, 

Kaiwhakauka and Marton Sah and Door. 

For more info to plan your trip visit: 

www.visitruapehu.com. You can also download 

ride maps from the official websites, Timber Trail and 

Mountains to Sea. 


NIM PURJA: 

BREAKING RECORDS 

NIMS SUMMITS EVEREST, LHOTSE AND KANCHENJUNGA IN JUST UNDER NINE DAYS. 

Images and text by Red Bull 

Nirmal 'Nims' Purja MBE haș claimed two more 

incredible world records after the intrepid mountaineer 

became the first person to summit three peaks higher 

than 8,000m – Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Lhotse - 

in just under nine days and do the Everest to Lhotse 

traverse in 26 hours - both without supplementary 

oxygen. 

The Nepal-born naturalised British climber is well 

known for summitting all 14 of the world's 8,000m 

peaks in seven months and he also made history on 

January 16, 2021, when the former Gurkha and British 

Special Forces operative and his team became the first 

mountaineers to summit K2 in winter. 

After receiving worldwide acclaim for those feats, Purja 

embarked on a new adventure in early May with his 

Elite Exped team as they tackled the Himalayan peaks 

of Everest, Lhotse and Kanchenjunga. 

Purja and his team went from Base Camp to Camp 

2 on May 5, and then on May 6 started the push - 

with a few hours break at Camp 3 - to the 8,586m 

Kanchenjunga peak which they summited at 10.50am 

on May 7. 

They switched over to the Everest Base Camp on May 

10 and departed at 3am on May 11 for Camp 2 where 

they acclimatised for two days before heading up to 

Camp 3 on May 13 ahead of the final push. 

They left the South Col at 11pm on May 14 and, in a 

very quick time of just nine hours, they summitted the 

world's most famous peak of 8,849m at 8am on May 

15 to complete the second leg of the feat. 

Lhotse was the final peak and on May 16, the team left 

the South Col around 3.30am and reached the 8,516m 

summit around 10am with Purja the first to summit 

three peaks higher than 8,000m – Everest, Lhotse and 

Kanchenjunga - without oxygen in an incredible time of 

just eight days, 23 hours and 10 minutes - a new world 

record. 

The 38-year-old, who took full advantage of this 

season's good Everest summit window, revealed: "As I 

was focused on guiding and helping our team achieve 

their new possible, it was all in a chilled manner. My 

mission has always been to inspire people and to 

show what human beings are capable of, that's what 

gives me the energy and excitement – showing people 

that nothing is impossible. I'm trailblazing and I want 

to inspire everyone to know they can achieve their 

dreams too." 

He also did the Everest to Lhotse traverse without 

supplementary oxygen in 26 hours to claim another 

world record despite getting Khumbu cough before 

Kanchenjunga due to low humidity and high-altitude 

temperatures. 

He added: "I was leading and guiding without oxygen 

– I was checking in and making sure everyone was 

ok, fed and rested and strong. And for me when I do a 

summit push it is from Base Camp to the summit and 

then from the summit back to Base Camp. It has to be 

authentic – no helicopter lifts back to Base Camp – 

unless the summit is void or there's an emergency or 

rescue." 



NELSON 

LAKES 

* 

FOUR DAYS IN 

NELSON LAKES 

LAKE ANGELUS, SABINE AND SPEARGRASS HUTS 

By Eric Skilling 

“Lake Angelus is my favourite place in the world” he 

said as we discussed the trip ahead. Okay, he was born 

in the area so maybe I could excuse a bit of bias, but 

that was a bold claim from someone who has visited 

some amazing places all over the globe. Judging by the 

number of photos I brought back, maybe he was right. 

My biggest encouragement was when he also said he 

wasn’t feeling that fit. Time to kick some butt, or so I 

thought. Alas, a lot can happen in four days, and nature 

would find a way of bringing me humbly back to earth by 

doing what nature does. 

DAY 1: Lake Angelus. 12km in 6 hours. As so often 

happens in NZ, you step out of the car park and head 

straight up a hill. In this case a 650metre climb for the 

first hour-and-a-half. The upside is there are plenty of 

switchbacks, views of Lake Rotoiti, and the forest is full 

of the welcoming calls of bellbirds. It wasn’t long before 

I was back in the groove and feeling grateful to be out 

tramping in such epic country. 

The landscape changed abruptly as we left the bush line 

and started the poled route along Roberts Ridge. The 

track wound its way ahead through alpine scrub before 

disappearing into swirling mist. This was late February, 

and we were still warm after the climb, so we by-passed 

the shelter and kept going until we came across Martin. 


On top of the ridge overlooking Lake Angelus valley. 

Martin is probably not his real name, but the 

name seems to suit him. Martin is the name 

we gave to the larger-than-life-sized wooden 

model that looms out of the mist with hand 

raised. He warned us that the track ahead 

was “difficult, rocky and exposed” and “it 

was still a long way to the hut!”. He urged 

us to TURN BACK! If we were tired or cold. 

Dramatic stuff. I gave Martin a cuddle and we 

continued onward. 

We met a couple returning from Lake Angelus 

who told us the sky would clear once we 

reached Flagtop at 1650m, and we would get 

great views of Julius Summit (1794m). Well, 

it didn’t, and we didn’t. But a few hours later 

we did emerge out of the cloud and got to 

see the full jagged ridge of the Julius Peak, 

its multicoloured slopes falling steeply into 

the Speargrass River valley. To the northwest 

we could just make out what could have been 

the Hope Range and Mt Owen. 

A few hours later and we were standing on 

top of the ridge overlooking Lake Angelus 

valley. This is one of those moments that 

is hard to describe. The scene is unique. 

Several hundred metres below the two lakes 

stand out starkly, their colours ranging from 

a deep blue to almost black, edged with 

Saying G'day to Martin 


Sunrise at Lake Angeles, photographs don’t capture the feeling of remoteness, the cold mist, the smell of the alpine vegetation, 

and the sound of the Hukere stream making its way from the lake. 

turquoise and greens. Above them the valley 

is ringed by a serrated line of weathered peaks, 

with multiple scree slopes reaching down to the 

encroaching alpine tussock that surrounds the 

lakes. 

Angelus hut itself, stands nicely placed on the edge 

of the lake looking very fragile and out of place in 

this wild landscape. 

Once at the hut there was plenty of time for a swim, 

a cup of hot sweet coffee and to share stories and 

banter with others in the hut. Lake Angelus seems 

to be a mecca for couples. Andrea and Patrick from 

Nelson, Beth and Mulock from Dunedin, Gabriela 

and Leandro from South America. I had to settle for 

my mate Don. 

Next day I was up in time to catch the sunrise, but 

photographs don’t allow you to share the feeling 

of remoteness, the cold mist, the smell of the 

alpine vegetation, and the sound of the Hukere 

stream making its way from the lake. When the 

sun eventually reached over the peaks to the east, 

light spread over the glacial valley, still filled with a 

lumpy blanket of swirling cloud. Special. Then the 

breeze dropped and the surface of Lake Angelus 

became a mirror, creating almost perfect reflections 

of the scree slopes and skyline above it. 

Day 2: Sabine hut, Lake Rotoroa. 6.8km in 6 

hours. Note the warning – expect an average 

pace of 1.1km an hour. DOC describes the track as 

“steep” in that charming, understated kiwi way. 

A perfect day for tramping. We scrambled and 

boulder hopped along the ridgeline, with expansive 

views from Mt Angelus, the Muntz and Braeburn 

ranges, and up Sabine River valley to Mt Franklin 

(2340 metres). Our lunch stop was just above 

the bushline, overlooking the full length of Lake 

Rotoroa and the promise of a refreshing swim. 

It was a welcome relief to walk into the cool cover 

of the beech trees after spending most of the tramp 

walking on rock and gravel with plenty of boulder 

hopping. Don’t get me wrong, the panoramas from 

the exposed tops are awe-inspiring, but it was bliss 

to step onto the bush track, cushioned by layers of 

fine beech tree leaves. Piwakaka skipped around 

us, and bellbirds greeted us with their inimitable 

song. Three hours to go. 

An hour later the path had become quite steep. A 

couple of wasps had miraculously snuck into my 

boots, settled on each of my big toes, and would 

occasionally give me a sting if I made any decent 

sized downward step. 

Then we reached “The Sign”. These large signs 

with their contour profiles and “You are Here” 

points are rare but usually very welcome. They 

impart guidance, direction, hope and anticipation. 

Sometimes they lie. This specific one was 

colourfully decorated with a profile telling us that we 

had an hour to go. That is a lie. Clearly whomever 

put up the sign did a “she’ll be right” and put it up at 

the wrong end of the trail. Soon afterward the steep 

track became even steeper. Handholds became 

commonplace. 

An hour later the lake looked no closer. By now 

another 10 wasps had made their way into my 

boots and settled onto a toe each. Almost every 

foot-plant was announced with a stab of pain to 

each toe. I was doing mini traverses wherever 

possible. Don meanwhile, seemed to be enjoying 

himself as he waited every 100m or so for me to 

catch up. I might be better at going uphill, but his 

forte was the downhills.

Top: Andrea and Patrick nearing the last ridge 

Above: 12 Heading along Cedric Ridge with 

Mt Franklin in the distance 

We stopped and I took of my boots and socks and rearranged 

everything. I enjoyed about 100 metres of relative comfort before the 

wasps repositioned themselves on my toes. 

Another hour later I was considering taking my boots off and walking 

bare foot when I heard voices echoing off the lake. We must be 

close. Going bootless on this terrain was a dumb idea so I turned and 

scrambled down backwards. The humiliation was complete. 

Ten minutes later I hobbled up to the hut and took off my boots, amazed 

that they had not melted by the flames from my blazing toes. A painful 

lesson in cutting toenails just before leaving on these adventures. 


Heading to Speargrass hut 

Day 3 and 4: Speargrass Hut and Mt Robert car park. 

18Km 9 hours. Don and I had set aside two days to 

complete the round trip from Sabine to the car park. It 

turned out to be a brilliant ideas for so many reasons. 

Not least were the weather gods continuing to smile down 

on us. It also turned a single tough day into one moderate 

and then another easy day to finish the trip. 

2 km 

Leaflet (https://leafletjs.com) | NZ Topo Map (/) images sourced from LINZ (https://www.linz.govt.nz/) - Crown Copyright Reserved 

Top to bottom: Speargrass hut 

The route we took 

Can't go past Backcountry Cuisine and Jetboil 

+ 

− 

 

50 

250 

Starting alongside the lake the track veers into the lush 

beech forest which is traversed by small streams and a 

couple of bridged rivers. The forest floor around us was 

covered in thick layers of lichen, ferns and bright green 

mosses. The clear streams made it mostly a waste of time 

carrying water. 

We also attracted the attention of some of the most 

confident piwakawaka and robins you will meet. During 

a stop a robin brazenly hopped down onto our packs, 

skipped down to our boots and then hopped onto our legs 

and picked seeds off our gaiters and socks. Priceless. 

Speargrass Hut is another of the many stunningly-well 

placed wilderness huts we have the freedom to visit. 

Nestled in a couple of hectares of sweeping speargrass 

and tussock, shielded on three sides by massive ridges 

including Julius Peak, and facing down the heavily 

forested river valley. Relatively new, the hut is also double 

glazed and more importantly, empty of people. 

The perfect place to reflect and enjoy a final night away 

from civilisation. 

Midday next day, after a cleansing dip into Lake Rotoiti, 

and an equally cleansing ale at St Arnaud, we found 

ourselves planning a return trip up Sabine Valley to the 

Blue Lake. 

Thanks to Don for a choosing a stunning itinerary. And to 

the folk managing those predator traps. 

I chose to use Backcountry Cuisine, Jetboil, Keen and 

Macpac products. 


We are 

the mountain 

people. 

Everything we make is designed by 

climbers, for climbers. Each piece is 

crafted by peak and crag to give you 

Everything we make is designed by climbers, 

absolute protection, comfort and mobility 

for climbers. Each piece is crafted by peak 

when and you crag really to give need you absolute it. protection, 

comfort and mobility when you really need it. 

WWW.RAB.EQUIPMENT 

Available now from Rab specialist stores throughout NZ. 

Hunting And Fishing New Zealand stores nationwide. Auckland: Living Simply, Waikato: Trek N Travel, Equip Outdoors, 

Taupo: Outdoor Attitude, Wellington: Dwights Outdoors, Motueka: Coppins Outdoors, 

Nelson: PackGearGo, Kaikoura: Coastal Sports, Christchurch: Complete Outdoors, Greymouth: Colls Sports, 

Hokitika: Wild Outdoorsman, Wanaka: MT Outdoors, Queenstown: Small Planet. 

Online: huntingandfishing.co.nz, dwights.co.nz, outdooraction.co.nz, mtoutdoors.co.nz, smallplanetsports.com, 

equipoutdoors.co.nz, gearshop.co.nz, outfittersstore.nz 

Distributed by Outfitters 0800021732 www.outfitters.net.nz

GEORGIA 

* 

GEORGIA: 

A LITTLE KNOWN TREASURE 

Words and images by Pol Tarrés Martrat 

When this story landed on our desk, I had to admit 

that I had no idea where Georgia (the country) was 

located, so I did a wee Google search. Turns out 

that Georgia is at intersection between Eastern 

Europe and Western Asia, bound on the west by 

the Black Sea and to the north and east by Russia 

and on its southern border lies Turkey, Armenia and 

Azerbaijan. 

Georgia small and mountainous, covering an area 

of only 67.900 km2. The Likhi Range divides the 

country into eastern and western halves whereas 

the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range forms the 

northern border and the Lesser Caucasus Mountains 

run along the southern reaches, so you can see it 

would be a great place for some snow sports. 

Pol Tarrés Martrat shares his experiences visiting 

this little known treasure that is Georgia from his 

home base in Spain. 

28//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#232 

The remote untouched beauty that is Georgia


Top: Playing around on the catski 

Left to right: Goderdzi resort / Cat team / Lone lines amongst the pines 

Destination Goderdzi: Southern Georgia 

Goderdzi Ski Resort is situated at an 

elevation of 1,724m rising to 2,364m, there 

are over 8km of slopes available and you 

can find endless freeride lines outside of 

the slopes. It had been snowing all night 

and found plenty of pow, the snow didn’t 

disappoint. We did a few runs, taking 

pictures and videos and enjoying the 

unbelieveable views of Goderdzi Valley. 

After sunset we skied to the front door of 

the hotel and headed into the spa for a bit of 

relaxation. 

We spent the next two days playing around on the catski. The 

terrain, although not very steep, was really fun as the catski could 

take you almost anywhere and we spent the day doing runs in 

the middle of the small houses and forest and some open areas 

where you can play around doing fast, long turns. 

Tuesday was a bluebird day with no wind and you could see for 

miles. The snow conditions were great and you could choose so 

many different lines. The conditions mean there is almost no risk 

of avalanche so it was like one big playground. We only had a 

meeting point with the catski at the end of the slope and the rest 

you were free to chose your line. We enjoyed every second of it. 

The following day the fog and snow arrived so we chose the forest 

to ski as it provided more visibility. After a quick lunch we went 

back to the top for a “sunset mission.” It’s amazing how the views 

can change with a colourful sunset. In this area there are a lot 

of small wood cabins that farmers use during the summer which 

makes for breathtaking scenery with all the small huts covered in 

untouched snow. 


ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//31 

The gondola dwarfed by its surroundings... Goderdzi Ski Resort

Top: All alone in Mestia / Far right: Even the overcast days are great 

Left to right: Time to relax / The views are incredible / Solitude and snow 

Destination Mestia: Northern Georgia - Greater Caucasus 

Our destination was Tetnuldi Ski Resort and things here were 

really different. The resort was much bigger, the runs steeper 

and mountains higher. With that came more people, however 

we still felt like we had the mountain to ourselves. The first 

day we woke to a cloudy sky so caught the lift to the top of 

the resort, above the cloud layer. Magnificent views of Mount 

Tetnuldi (4,858m) and Mount Ushba (4,737m) greeted us, it 

was spectacular. 

We went with some guides from Vagabond Adventures, they 

knew the terrain as this is their home resort, and with a higher 

risk of avalanche off-piste and a much larger area to ski it 

enabled us to ski freely without fear of getting lost. We spent 

the day skiing and enjoying the Georgian pow. 

The next day we went to Hatsvali Ski Resort where we did 

a few runs through the slopes with astonishing views of the 

Ushba Mountains before putting on skins and doing some ski 

touring. As time was limited, it was a short one but enough to 

know the area has a lot of potential and thousands of places to 

explore amongst the big mountains. 

Easy, cheap and fun. 

After a week in Georgia, we can say that the 

country exceeded our expectations, not only snow 

wise. We loved the food, we tried all types of 

khachapouris (a traditional Georgian dish of filled 

bread with cheese, meat or beans.) We also took 

part in a Khinkali masterclass and loved it, making 

and eating the traditional dumplings. 

The people were super charming, and we were 

invited to try their homemade wine and even the 

local vodka. Even though they didn’t speak a lot of 

Engilsh (or Spanish in our case), we were always 

received with a big smile. 

In conclusion it was an amazing trip to a country 

that is a hidden gem, and we know for sure we 

will be back again next year. It has so much to 

offer; tons of snow, delicious food, lovely people, 

astonishing landscapes, adventurous terrain and a 

charming culture. 



Tips (and 2 feet) dipped well-into the deep end above Parque Nacional Lanin, Patagonia. 

photo: P.M.Fadden

SUFFRAGE AND GROWTH 

AN ACCIDENTAL ROMANCE 

By Paul Fadden 

I learned to ski because I needed the 

money. 

A weird tour through the warped brothels of 

Italian immigration had just stripped me of 

a life’s savings, direction, and most worldly 

possessions. So when I answered a call 

promising winter employment high atop 

the Chilean Andes, I asked no questions. I 

simply said, “Si.” 

Raise the stakes; raise the allure, and so it 

goes until somebody’s ‘bust’. In my case, 

to ‘bust’ meant a fate worse than drowning 

by dirty toilet bowl. And I was tip-toeing 

the porcelain edge, I knew it. Lumped atop 

a kitchen table was a cluster of rumpled 

notes, random coins, a wrinkled bank slip 

and pocket lint, enough--to the Peso—for 

one last roll of the dice. 

What followed was a sixty-hour odyssey 

aboard two turbulent airplanes and two 

asthmatic buses, ending in regurgitation at 

the wheel wells of a rusty flatbed driven 

by one, Señor Nelson Rubilar Flores— 

‘Nelson’ for short. 

My broad-faced Chilean patron smiled 

widely beneath dancing eyes. He spoke 

not a lick of English save a single, 

intensely stressed declaration: ‘Eetz-Eem- 

Por-Tant.’ Ah Nelson, how right you are. 


He gripped me in brotherhood and chucked my 

pack over the tailgate. I climbed in and raised a 

thumb. Nelson punched it for Maipo. 

San Jose de Maipo in Provincia de Cordillera 

is Cabernet country, where the “roads” twist 

like vines and “driving” is aerobic. For sixty-six 

invigorating kilometers, Nelson roared ahead 

with reckless abandon. On the sixty-seventh, 

he crushed the brake like beer can and I laid 

eyes on my fate, the grand-daddy of Chilean ski 

culture and industry; Lagunillas. 

Centro de Esqui Lagunillas is the country’s 

pioneer ski area. Its low altitude and roots 

attitude paradoxically pin it down and prop it 

up. Big June snow meant an early start to the 

season and a dire need for staff. In me, Nelson 

saw cheap labor plus nothing to lose, and he 

was right. 

Promise of income accompanied by 

accommodation had already edged-out concern 

for creature comforts or inalienable human 

rights. But where, I could not help but wonder, 

was that accommodation? Save for a series of 

60 yr-old wooden platter lifts and a few sagging 

shanties, the base appeared to be featureless. 

I would have asked, but Nelson had the answer 

in the form of a shovel planted at my feet. 

“La Francesca,” he said, directing a reverent 

gaze uphill. 

A building nested a few hundred meters higher 

on the southern face. I hadn’t noticed because 

only its roof peeked above the snowpack. 

Nelson was carving a trail towards it and 

indicating, irritably, that I lend a hand. Cold 

but sweating, we excavated around clapboard 

walls, Plexiglas windows and doors too small 

for their frame. Inside, abandoned armies of 

crumpled wrappers, unwashed dishes and 

rotting food covered every surface. A mouse 

dropping carpet sullied an otherwise bare 

concrete floor. Heat was by wood fire, water 

needed boiling, and electricity ran only when 

lifts did. La Francesca, my fortress of solitude. 

Back at the carpark I learned there was a 

ski school and equipment rental among the 

sagging shacks. It was by working there that 

I would earn my luxurious accommodation. 

Approaching the shop required awkward hops 

through high, white dunes, and once there 

Nelson forced its door with his shoulder. Inside, 

and strewn everywhere, laid a disarray of 

skis. In mismatched pairs old or new, large or 

small, the floor was a felled forest of yellowed 

planks. This plus the La Francesca had to be 

rock bottom, surely, but the boot room proved 

otherwise. 


A dynamic demonstration of the benefits to be found beyond 'the known'. photo: P.M.Fadden

The author; finding footing atop the Catalunya Pyrenees and (inset) reveling in ducky-pow 

among the Japan Alps." photo: P.M.Fadden 

A mule, happily chewing hay, reined 

over a bale someone—maybe Nelson— 

had thoughtfully placed in a corner. (The 

room was a heated shelter after all, and 

much snow had fallen.) The contented 

beast cast me an eye that implied I was 

the actual ass. And I sighed to sense the 

legitimacy of the point. 

Meanwhile, Nelson scooped a pair of 

158 Vokl Supersports from the melee (I 

am 191cm) hoisting the skis, he purred 

“Classes, Plata,” and “Eetz-Eem-Por- 

Tant.” 

‘Plata’ signifies money, like ‘bucks’ 

denotes cash, and my employer knew 

full-well my need. Beaming, Nelson 

dodged the mule to retrieve a pair of 

shit-kicker Langes. And that rounded-out 

my kit. 

The assignment: resuscitate the shop 

then work as its instructor, with no ski 

experience whatsoever. 

The following months are etched in 

my bones as much as memory. Boil 

water, chop wood, ski-train with Nelson, 

shovel; feed the mule, sort gear, and 

share the romance of sliding downhill 

with the citizens of Santiago. Nelson’s 

bread and butter were those city folk. 

A foreigner-lead class was incentive to 

buy. That I was a learner myself seemed 

beside the point. 

At first, the incessant pace of each day 

slowed my recognition of the seed which 

was growing. By the time I did, it was 

there to stay. A surprise longing to ski 

had overgrown the shock of being made 

to. A dormant thing awoke and it defied 


equip 

yourself! 

all physical laws save gravity. Whether 

blistering sun or bitter cold, I skied. I 

hiked last lines while sun set. The ‘Plata’ 

no longer mattered. 

Then a big daddy storm came to call. 

Vicious wind coupled by low visibility 

closed Lagunillas for three days, sending 

Nelson (and the mule) scurrying to the 

valley below. I was forgotten, lightless 

and isolated within La Francesca. But 

rather than shiver, I made a date with 

said storm. Battening all hatches, and 

touching wood for an absent beacon, 

I set a boot pack into void. It was a 

scenario I’d never imagined for myself 

yet somehow felt drawn to all the same; 

navigating by inner compass, seeking to 

carve my own line leading home. 

Years have passed, yet skiing remains 

the source. For it I’ve risked frostbite, 

suffered crooks, lied to bosses, bailed 

on girlfriends, crashed in bathtubs, and 

accepted without reservation that this, 

to me, is a lifelong romance, simply 

because Eetz-Eem-Por-Tant. Sometimes 

that’s all there is to say. 

Low Prices Everyday 

Free NZ Shipping on 

orders over $150 for 

members 

Members Earn Equip+ 

Loyalty Points 

shop online or instore 

equipoutdoors.co.nz 

62 Killarney Road, 

Frankton, Hamilton, 

New Zealand 

P: 0800 22 67 68 

E: sales@equipoutdoors.co.nz

YOUR SNOW HELMET CAN BE YOUR ON-MOUNTAIN DISCO TOO 

The year is 2022, and by now most people have heeded the “gospel” 

of wearing a great helmet. We know quality helmets, with the latest 

safety technology (like MIPS), produced by a trusted helmet brand are 

keeping people safe and stylish all over the mountain. Their value isn’t 

news, but what may be surprising is finding out that most adult helmets 

have spaces to install audio drop-ins, and installation is easy! 

Over 20 helmet brands offer audio-ready compatibility allowing skiers 

and snowboarders to easily add a wireless system. These systems all 

provide Bluetooth audio and phone call capability with glove friendly 

controls. Phone calls on the mountain? Yes! The ear pad itself works as 

a wind noise dampener (or “DeadCat” in microphone parlance) so calls 

can be made on the blusteriest day. 

Installation is simple… just open each ear pad up and remove the 

pre-cut foam inserts. Not every helmet has clearly marked access so 

play around until you get it open. Smith provides a nice convenient 

zipper to access the internals. Some models, like the Oakley Mod 5, 

need extra foam removed so don’t be afraid to rip (or cut) out more to 

accommodate your audio system. Drop your audio kit in and enjoy the 

day with music in your lid! 

Search audio ready helmet 

brands & models using this 

QR code link: 

One audio kit sits above the rest in both audio performance and 

communication. The ALECK 006 is the wireless audio system that 

brings premium sound, group communication and a GPS enabled 

friend finder. The Aleck 006 puts your playlist at your fingertips, keeps 

your squad in touch on storm days, and makes meeting up for aprés 

easy. 

Pick up the ALECK 006 now at Torpedo 7 , Amazon.com.au or Aleck.io

TURN ANY HELMET INTO AN AUDIO MARVEL 

LEARN MORE 

CUSTOM 

HI-FI AUDIO 

GROUP 

COMMS 

FRIEND 

FINDER 

WWW.ALECK.IO 

AVAILABLE AT:

WINTER FISHING 

THEY STILL HAVE TO EAT 

By Steve Dickinson 

Despite our best intentions, when 

the air gets chilly, we tend to back 

off. Fish are a cold-blooded creature, 

they appreciate temperature, but 

they do not react to it as extremely 

as we do, however, like many 

people, fish tend to be less active 

in the cold. As cold-blooded 

creatures, their metabolism dips 

when temperatures take a dive. But 

they still have to eat, maybe a little 

less but if they eat, then they can be 

caught – simple. 

We spoke to a range of cold weather 

experts; fishermen, search and 

rescue, alpine guides, and ski patrol 

and this is their input. The simple key 

to enjoying the cold is staying warm. 

That is it, simple. 

If it gets cold and you want to stay 

warm the first rule, is you need to 

stay dry. Fishing and keeping dry 

may not be as easy as it sounds. 

The simplest solution is to keep a 

dry towel to dry your hands with after 

catching a fish or drying your legs 

with when launching a boat. The 

smallest hole in your waders will let 

in icy water and once your clothes 

are wet, especially if they are not 

wool, you are going to get cold quick, 

so no leaks. In winter on our boat I 

keep a dry towel in a dry bag just for 

towelling off, a second towel to keep 

drying your hands after catching fish. 

Second must do; is keeping your 

head warm. We lose 80% of our 

body heat via your head. You need a 

woollen beanie, balaclava, or buff. Of 

late I have been using a buff in that 

they are versatile, if you get too hot 

you can pull it down to your neck, if it 

gets real cold, you can use it pulling 

up over your ears and head, they 

just give you more options. But buy 

a good one there are loads of cheap 

synthetic ones on the market that 

are next too useless. A beanie and 

a buff can also be a good combo if 

it is really chilly. Word of advice, if 

you pull the buff up over your neck 

then over your mouth, your breath 

will cause condensation, which make 

the buff wet, remember keeping dry 

is the key. 

After making sure your head is 

warm next you need to look after 

your other extremities. Starting from 

the ground up, in waders make 

sure you have woollen socks, once 

again do not buy cheap. Even if 

the product says merino, not all 

merino is made equal. You tend to 

get what you pay for. Merion is light 

weight, breathable, merino manages 

moisture by a process called wicking 

– in that it will pull moisture away 

from your body which if chilled with 

make you cold. Merino is also antibacterial 

and odour resistance. 

Never use synthetic or worse cotton, 

as it is quick to suck up water, slow 

to dry and should never be worn 

next to your skin. If like me you find 

wool itchy, there are now a range of 

synthetic /wool blends and silk/wool 

blends which are easy to wear. Wool 

dries quickly and will retain some 

heat if it gets wet and has great 

thermal qualities – just ask sheep. 

Your other extremities are your 

hands, ears, and nose. There are 

a range of fingerless gloves on the 

market which are great for fishing. A 

well-known guide showed me a trick 

once where he had an additional pair 

of extra-large woollen gloves that he 

wore over his fingerless gloves for 

travelling. For ears and nose they 

can be looked after by your buff. 

There are a range of commercial 



hand warmers, they come in an array 

of sizes, and some are reusable. You 

either snap or mix them which causes a 

chemical reaction, and they warm up. Do 

not put them in your gloves – rather put 

them in a pocket so that if your gloves do 

get wet you can warm your hands up. I 

have heard of people putting them in their 

socks in their waders but really if it is that 

cold maybe stay home. To locate these if 

you cannot find in your local fishing store 

look to any ski outlet. Reusable ones 

are more expensive but with repeat use 

become a far better deal. 

The art of layering. There is an art to 

layering. Key rule, no cotton, only wool, 

some fleece, and microfleece. Over 

the last ten years there has been an 

explosion of quality layering products. 

What used to be just an itchy thermal 

layer and a woolly jumper that has all 

changed. There are now a full range of 

base layers, mid layers, and top layers. It 

is simple- when it is cold put more on. 

Fishing, unlike say tramping where you 

are constantly moving you need to be 

warm from the get-go. This includes 

fleece-based legging or pants. I have 

two different thickness fleeces legging 

I wear under my waders depending on 

how cold it is going to be. Top, I wear 

a RAB micro fleece, super lightweight, 

short sleeved, this is my go too product 

winter and summer. Mid layer long sleeve 

merino and if it is going to be cold, I add 

another layer on top, but making sure 

there is heaps of movement (not too tight 

for the last layer) – then jacket on top of 

that. An obvious observation is that you 

can always remove a layer, you cannot 

always add one. You do not want to be 

too hot so that you sweat, as sweat can 

chill off and make you colder. You want 

to be comfortably warm, and layering is a 

way to maintain that temperature control. 

When its cold drink plenty of water. Hot 

tea and coffee might seem a good idea, 

but you will need to pee, which mean 

exposure to the cold! A good option is hot 

water, or hot chocolate. What is a real 

‘no no’ is alcohol in any form as it lowers 

your core body temperature (even if it 

feels warm to begin with) – save that wee 

dram till you get back home and make it 

part of the boasting process, my winter 

suggestion is Fireballs. 

New Zealand is renowned for having 

four seasons in one day so be prepared 

– check the forecast but do not 100% 

believe it if it says all is good, be prepared 

for the worst. 

In winter it pays to fish with a friend 

should you take a tumble into the water 

someone is there to help out and in the 

worst-case scenario, go for help or at 

least be able to see the first signs of 

hypothermia. 

When we think of hypothermia, we 

think about people trapped on mountain 

side in a storm. That is not the case. 

Hypothermia can easily occur when you 

are exposed to cold air, water, wind, or 

rain. Your body temperature can drop to 

a dangerously low level at temperatures 

of only 10° or higher in wet and windy 

weather, or if you are in 16° to 21° of 

water you are at risk of hypothermia. 

It can happen easily, I once got 

hypothermia waiting for a bus in winter. 

Symptoms and signs 

•person feels cold to touch and may be 

shivering violently. 

•tiredness – person may fall behind when 

walking. 

•clumsy, uncoordinated, may fall over and 

appear drunk. 

•changes in mood with irritability, irrational 

behaviour 

•person may resist help. 

•slow to respond to questions. 

•shivering may decrease and stop – this 

is a critical sign. 

•loss of consciousness 

•pale or blueish skin colour 

What to do? 

The best treatment for hypothermia 

is prevention. But if you suspect 

hypothermia, the aim of helping the 

person is to stop further heat loss and 

warm the patient slowly. 

•Provide immediate shelter out of the 

wind and dry clothing. 

•If fully conscious, give warm drinks, 

lollies, chocolate, etc. 

•If isolated, body contact to reduce heat 

loss and slowly warm – e.g. huddle 

around the patient in a sleeping bag. 

•Get help. 

Winter fishing is all about comfort and 

safety. The two should go hand in hand. 

In most cases there should be little risk 

as long as people are sensible and 

aware. In winter it pays not to go as far 

from your safety access – your vehicle, 

accommodation etc. However if you are 

going further you need to make sure 

you are prepared. Prepare for the cold, 

prepare for the worst and you will be 

comfortable, safe, and prepared for winter 

fun. 


xposure 

Photographer: Andrew Chad, 

Athlete: Corey Seemann, 

Location: Jackson, WY, United States 

About the shot: If you ever want to frustrate 

yourself, try shooting skiing at night with a 

flash. We had an idea of what may happen if 

everything went in our favour, but that's the 

beauty of photography, it usually doesn't. So, 

when this image showed up on the back of the 

camera at the end of a week-long ski trip, we 

called it a night. Because sometimes a little bit 

of dumb luck is all you need. The image is fairly 

simple when it's broken down. A dark room, 

single flash and a white bounce sheet are the 

basic concepts here. Tracking the subject though 

the dark was a little tricky, but thank god for 

modeling lights. But what makes it special to me 

is the fact that Corey was wearing his daylight 

lenses in the middle of the night. The coloured 

lenses and the reflection of the snow in them is 

the real treat of the image. 

Photographer Credit: Red Bull Illume 2021

WINTER 

MACKENZIE 

There are moments in a Mackenzie 

winter that stand out and define 

the season: breathing in crisp 

alpine air, the contrast of snowy 

white mountains against bright blue 

skies, local eateries with roaring 

fires and hearty tucker – the perfect 

way to warm up with good cheer 

after a day exploring an alpine 

wonderland. The comfort of steam 

rising from hot pools while you 

admire the starry skies followed by 

a perfect sleep in blissful silence 

after a busy day. 

So head outdoors and come play 

in our expansive mountain-ringed 

plateau – the legendary Mackenzie! 


MACKENZIE 

REGION 

* 

Heliskiing ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//49 

- image by Mount Cook Heliski.

Mt Dobson - Image by Jeremy Lyttle 

THREE SKI FIELDS 

The Mackenzie Region has three ski fields, all situated within an 

easy drive of each other. These family-owned fields offer laid back 

uncrowded skiing and boarding with outstanding views of the 

lakes and mountains. 

Mount Dobson 

‘Dobbo’ as it’s known to locals, is located between Fairlie and 

Lake Tekapo. Famous for all-day sun, large learners area and 

regular snowfalls on the peaks. Go up past the groomed trails 

to try some off-piste on the smooth powder with views of lakes 

Tekapo & Pūkaki. Warming up at the historic Silverstream Hotel 

Pub afterwards is a must. A long standing establishment since 

1877, the pub offers craft beer, delicious meals, and live bands. 

Celebrate your day on the slopes in true rural style with a visit to 

this treasure! 

Roundhill Ski Area 

Close to Lake Tekapo, Roundhill is one of the country’s largest ski 

resorts at a whopping 500 hectares. The access road is one of 

the safest (no scary drop offs), and the carpark is adjacent to the 

learners area where you’ll often find adults cooking on the BBQ 

while the kids learn the basics. The more adventurous skier will 

love Australasia’s biggest vertical drop (783m). Located at the top 

of the T-bar is the precious von Brown Hut, a licensed café with 

some of the best views in the world. Try their speciality drinks 'The 

Jumping Goat' and the 'B&B Coffee'. 

Roundhill Ski Area - Image by Blackbird Media 

Ōhau Snow Fields 

Not far from Twizel is Ōhau Snow Fields. This is classic Kiwi 

skiing with the lodge offering old school charm with roaring 

log fire, group-style dining, and a cosy bar. All ski abilities are 

catered for, and there is some adventurous terrain near the top. 

Stay the night at the lodge, or simply drive over from your Twizel 

accommodation for a day on the slopes. The views of Lake Ōhau 

have to be seen to believed! 

Ōhau Snow Field - Image supplied 


Snow shoeing with Alpine Recreation 

SKI THE TASMAN GLACIER 

The Haupapa/Tasman Glacier is New Zealand’s largest 

glacier, and you can ski on top of it! And best of all, you 

needn’t be a hardcore professional, this is for intermediate 

level skiers. The runs are blue/green and range from 8-10km. 

After getting dropped off by helicopter or skiplane you 

find yourself on top of the glacier with mountains in every 

direction, including the mighty Aoraki/Mount Cook. The 

stillness up there is profound, no rustling leaves or singing 

birds – just silence and the occasional avalanche far away 

(don’t worry, it’s safe on the glacier). Explore ice caves and 

incredible ice formations at a relaxed pace with your guide. 

This is one bucket-list item that’s truly achievable by almost 

any skier. 

HELI-SKI 

After some adventure? You must be, you’re currently reading 

Adventure Magazine! Look no further than heli-ski, this is truly 

the stuff that puts you ‘above and beyond’. Charter a flight for 

a multi-day skiing adventure. Soar above the vibrant turquoise 

lakes, glaciers, and icebergs to spend your day amongst 

lofty mountain peaks, skiing virgin snow and revelling in the 

grandeur of it all. 

ALPINE RECREATION 

With the arrival of the winter snows the Southern Alps are 

transformed from tussock lands into an extensive playground 

for snowshoeing. Alpine Recreation offer 2-5 day trips from 

their Rex Simpson Hut at Lake Tekapo. Situated in the Kahui 

Kaupeka Conservation Park, part of the Two Thumb Range, 

you can enjoy views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Main 

Divide. It’s wonderful to be exploring the snowy valleys, icecovered 

streams, and relax in the evening at the hut nicely 

warmed by a logburner. Three days is the recommended trip 

length, but even if you just have a weekend to spare you’ll still 

get a refreshing break from the normal in a winter wonderland. 

Mueller Hut - Image by Siller Francisco 

WALKING TRAILS IN WINTER 

A winter walk is a great way to boost energy and wake up your 

immune system to stave off any winter colds! The fresh air and 

incredible snowy mountain views are sure to feed your soul while 

you get some exercise. 

To get right amongst the mountains you can’t beat hiking up to 

Mueller Hut in the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Dubbed the 

stairway to heaven, the Sealy Tarns Track in the Aoraki/Mount 

Cook National Park is a must for the fit adventurer. 2,200 steps 

take you straight up the freshwater lakes of Sealy Tarns providing 

spectacular views of the Hooker Valley and the National Park. 

The track branches off from the Kea Point track in the village 

and is steep with a total height gain of 600m. Those wanting an 

overnight adventure continue can continue on the alpine route 

for a couple of hours to Mueller Hut. This 28-bunk hut has gas 

cookers and solar lighting. During winter it’s strongly advised to 

bring an ice axe, walking poles and crampons. Pay the hut fee at 

the Department of Conservation visitor centre in the Aoraki/Mount 

Cook village, register your intentions, and check the avalanche 

advisory report as there is some avalanche risk along the route. 


Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail 

CYCLING THE ALPS 2 OCEAN CYCLE TRAIL 

Aoraki/Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo are the two starting 

points for the world-famous 315km Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail. 

This nine-section trail stretches from the Southern Alps to 

the Pacific Ocean. If riding the full trail doesn’t fit with your 

schedule, try one of the day rides. Some of the most scenic 

sections are near the town of Twizel. 

There are many recognised benefits of winter cycling. You’ll 

burn more calories due your body working harder to stay 

warm. Studies have shown that your resting metabolic rate 

increases when you’re exposed to cold. It all adds up to a fitter 

body while your lazy mates are busy with Netflix and chill. 

Some tips for staying safe while winter cycling include lowering 

your saddle to lower centre of gravity and decrease wobble 

on ice, letting some air out of the tyres to increase traction, 

layering appropriately, and wearing gloves. 

Adventure South have a winter Alps 2 Ocean packaged 

tour that includes mulled wine, hot water bottles, warm fires, 

soaking in hot pools, and much more to ensure total comfort 

for the six-day tour. 

STARGAZING 

Winter is the best time to experience the protected ‘park in the 

sky’, the 4,367sq km Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky 

Reserve. It gets darker sooner, and the centre of the Milky Way 

is right above you. The spacious landscape coupled with strict 

lighting controls ensures you’ll get a stellar view of the night 

sky in the Mackenzie. There’s a wide range of paid tours to 

choose from: a working observatory, floating in hammocks in 

hot pools, a wine cellar, farm tours, and even small group tours 

that deliver a bespoke experience at your accommodation. 

You can also try your hand at astrophotography with one of the 

region’s talented guide/photographers. 

View from Mt John – Dark Sky Project 

Another option is to bring plenty some cosy blankets and 

folding chairs (don’t forget a thermos of hot chocolate!) 

and find your own special place to ponder the universe 

beneath the stars. There are plenty of good locations on 

the canal roads, and seeing the stars reflected in the water 

is truly a special sight. 

HOT POOLS 

Everything you need for the ultimate day out is at Tekapo 

Springs. Try a thrilling snow tube ride, ice skate on the 

outdoor rink, then warm up in the hot pools. The onsite 

café is fully licensed with a wide range of food and drink 

for everyone. Treat yourself to a massage or beauty 

treatment at the day spa, or stargaze from a hot pool with 

their Tekapo Star Gazing tours at night. 


" 

mindfulness = attention+intention 

We have all done it. 

Rocked up to the boat, the ski 

field, the rugby game, or the hike, 

not feeling 100%. Sure, it was 

great meeting up with friends the 

night before but then adding too 

much merriment to the evening 

basically ruins the following day, 

possibly the week. You might not 

even be hung-over or sick, but 

the remnant of alcohol removes 

your edge, or, to use a term that 

has been used a lot recently, the 

alcohol impacts or removes your 

‘intention’. 

Intention; is defined as a noun 

as something that you want and 

plan to do: 

Stress, health, circumstance, 

weather can all get in the way of 

our intention. 

But alcohol is a substance that 

we ‘choose’ to add that often 

gets in the way of our core 

intentions. 

Your intention was to go fishing, 

skiing, biking, or tramping. Not to 

feel like ‘ah shit’ for the morning 

waiting for the alcohol fog to lift. 

With “Dry July” looming and with 

the event becoming more and 

more popular, it is a good time 

to look at our drinking culture. 

This is not a goodie-two-shoes, 

finger-pointing, evangelical 

crusade against alcohol. This is 

a look at being mindful, (which is 

very WOKE at present) paying 

attention and maintaining the 

right intention. 

What is mindful drinking? 

Mindfulness = attention + 

intention 

Mindfulness is about paying 

attention. So many of us go 

through life never really noticing 

or even considering how we feel, 

what’s going on in our heads, 

or how we respond to the world 

around us. 

An addictive world can creep 

up on us slowly, it is not always 

alcohol or drugs but can be 

anything, anything that we feel 

we must do ‘or feel compelled to 

do’, from that 5k run every day 

to simply checking your phone 

messages as soon as you wake 

up. Unaware repetition is the 

subliminal cancer that can rob us 

of our intention. 

If someone asked you the night 

before, ‘do you want to just 

have an average day skiing 

and feel sick or do you want 

this third glass of wine’ – it’s an 

easy answer. But only if you 

are attentive, if someone else is 

pouring your wine or you are not 

aware of time and numbers – 

you are not mindfully drinking. 

Mindfulness is also about living 

with intention. Sometimes it 

feels like life is happening to 

us, it is the way we have been 

" 

programmed. But 

as we notice what’s 

going on inside us and 

how we react to other 

people, we can begin 

to take control. 

We start to live 

deliberately. Making 

things happen for us 

instead of to us. 

Mindfulness is also about 

living with intention.

Living with intention 

Your intention can revolve around an 

experience or it can revolve around your 

whole life. Some are happy and don’t 

need to make any changes, others want 

change but are not sure how to bring it 

about and some simply have not noticed. 

Our reasons for wanting to change are as 

diverse as we are. 

So much of our culture revolves around 

alcohol and it is not until you stop that 

you realise how often that connection is 

there. If for no other reason do Dry July 

so that you can see for yourself how 

often and how basic that connection is, 

once you have identified it, it makes your 

intention so much easy to fulfil. 

Mindful drinking really is as simple as 

paying attention and living with intention. 

Drinking is not about getting drunk, 

it’s just a by-product. But the social 

aspect, not even pressure just location 

and process, can make not drinking 

uncomfortable, difficult. As awareness 

of the impact of drinking has grown, we 

have seen a growth of non-alcohol and 

low alcohol beverages bloom. I recall 

vividly receiving a pallet of non-alcoholic 

Heineken as a promotion and didn’t really 

know what to do with it. We all agreed 

it would never take off. We were wrong, 

now, supermarkets have whole sections 

dedicated to non-alcoholic drinks. I am 

a fussy beer drinker, I prefer a strong 

flavoured IPA, and now, sure enough, 

there are several on the market that is 

alcohol free. 

In the US there are now full blow AF 

(alcohol-free) bars. In New Zealand, 

we have seen the alcohol-free range 

increase, particularly online. Leading 

the way in selection is Clear Head 

Drinks an online company based here 

in New Zealand dedicated to alcoholfree 

beverages. We caught up with 

Donna and Rick and asked them how 

the company came about. 

How did clear head drinks come about? 

Clear Head Drinks was born out of 

the need from the co-founder of the 

company, Ricky Bartlett who decided 

to stop drinking alcohol 8 years ago 

but who wanted to still be able to drink 

alcoholic drinks but without the effects 

of alcohol. Looking around there was a 

very limited supply of drinks and those 

drinks that were available tended to be 

spread out amongst different shops, 

supermarkets, and online stores. The 

initial idea had been to gather all the 

drinks that were on the market and 

have them under one roof so that Kiwis 

had one place that they could come 

to buy NA/Alcohol-free drinks knowing 

that they were looking at the complete 

collection. The problem was that not 

all those drinks tasted any good and 

so we decided to look overseas where 

the markets were more established 

to find a wider variety. At that time, 

even though New Zealand was a 

craft beer nation, there were no NA or 

alcohol-free craft beers available that 

were brewed in NZ and so we went 

out to the USA, Europe, Canada, and 

Australia to find a range that would 

satisfy thirsty Kiwis. This is how the 

current set-up came into being and 

Clear Head Drinks now has a large 

range of beverage options from NZ 

and from overseas with many of those 

drinks being world leaders in their field. 

What was the biggest challenge you 

had in establishing the company? 

Clear Head Drinks was the first, 

dedicated NA/Alcohol Free online 

store in the country and so being the 

first brought with it some challenges 

because this path had not been walked 

before. Connecting with suppliers from 

overseas, arranging freight at a time 

when the supply chain was starting 

to be affected by Covid and coming 

up with the funds to be able to buy 

large amounts of stock to bring into 

the country were all big challenges. A 

large stumbling block was our website. 

We had a launch date in mind, but the 

development of the website did not go 

according to plan and so everything 

was delayed as we found a new 

website developer, and this turned 

out to be an expensive and timeconsuming 

exercise. 

" 

Clear Head Drinks was born out of the need from the co-founder of 

the company, Ricky Bartlett who decided to stop drinking alcohol 8 

years ago but who wanted to still be able to drink alcoholic drinks but 

without the effects of alcohol. 


" We will continue 

to do our part 

by bringing an 

extensive range of 

quality, healthy 

and tasty nonalcoholic 

drinks 

to the NZ market. 

As with the emergence of low alcohol beer 

did you originally feel any resistance to the 

concept? 

The idea for Clear Head Drinks came about 

8 years ago but it wasn't until the first full 

lock down that we acted and began building 

the company. If we had started the company 

when we had the idea, it could have been 

a different story as the non-alcoholic 

movement hadn't really taken off at that time 

and there was resistance to the concept. 

Fast forward 7 years and the overall move to 

a more "wellness" focused society in general 

and NA/Alcohol-free drinking had become 

more and more accepted worldwide and that 

acceptance was certainly growing here in 

NZ. When we asked people about our idea 

we were constantly greeted with positive 

feedback and people saying how there was a 

market for drinks like this and how more and 

more adults wanted to move away from the 

harmful effects of alcohol. You always had 

the odd person who would say "what's the 

point" but generally people understood and 

were hugely supportive and there is no doubt 

that Kiwis have really welcomed the idea 

with open arms. 

On a day-to-day level – week by week, have 

you been affected by distribution issues? 

The distribution issues have been twofold 

for us with delays and cost increases 

when bringing the stock in from overseas 

as well as delivery issues here at home. 

The importing of goods has become harder 

thanks to container shortages and the effect 

of covid on the distribution network (as well 

as boats getting stuck in Canals!) and so this 

has not only increased the time to get stock 

from abroad, but the costs have gone up. At 

home, the problems have been, again, due 

to the covid issue which has taken courier 

drivers off the road, and slowed the ability 

for our warehouse to pick, pack and dispatch 

orders and this has led to delays. 

I am aware that beer has a used by 

date – how do you factor that in with 

such and extensive range? 

There is a lot of juggling that needs to 

be done to have products in the store 

that have a significant shelf life so 

that customers have the certainty that 

when the drinks arrive, they are going 

to be as good as they can be. When 

purchasing from Europe for instance, it 

can take up to 3 months for the ship to 

arrive and if the product has, like with 

Beer, a 12-month shelf life then it is 

imperative that what is sent to us is as 

fresh as possible to make sure that we 

have plenty of time to be able to sell 

the goods and that when they arrive 

at your door they taste as good as 

they should. Keeping a close eye on 

when the "best before" dates run out 

enables us to order in the appropriate 

time frames so that we always have 

the best stock on hand. 

Do you see a trend in what is popular 

– what sells best? 

There is no question that New Zealand 

is more of a beer nation than anything 

else and so we probably sell more 

craft beer than any other drink. We 

do also sell a great deal of sparkling 

wine and one of our exclusive brands, 

Thomson & Scott, is our biggest 

selling individual product. We are 

finding that buyers are willing to try 

new things and that is why we look to 

increase our range on a regular basis 

to give more choice and variety. 

There is a worldwide trend to AF bars 

– do you think that will start to happen 

in New Zealand? 

The trend towards non-alcoholic 

bars is one that we feel is inevitable 

here in New Zealand. There was an 

attempt in 2015 with a bar called "Tap 

Bar" in Auckland but it didn't work as 

the market wasn't ready for it and the 

concept of the bar, opening at midnight 

to gather those spilling out of other 

bars, just didn't fly. 

Fast forward to 2022 and Unleaded 

Alcohol-Free opened in the Wairarapa, 

initially as part of the Greytown 

truckstop venue. Unleaded has been 

well received with even sceptical 

patrons becoming happy customers. 

With NA/Alcohol-free drinks becoming 

more mainstream, we do see AF bars 

having their place in NZ and it is only 

a matter of time before this happens 

across the country, initially with "popup" 

bars and then with permanent 

venues. 

What does the future look like for clear 

head drinks? 

The NA/AF drinks market is only just 

beginning here in NZ. There is a great 

deal of interest in the category, but bars 

and restaurants are still very slow in 

adopting the idea of alcoholic drinks 

and where they have jumped on board, 

the options are limited. There is no 

question that when NA/AF drinks are 

available they sell and so it's a case of 

educating more hospitality premises so 

that they understand that they can sell 

this style of drinks, keep more of their 

customers happy and make margin at 

the same time. We will continue to do 

our part by bringing an extensive range 

of quality, healthy and tasty drinks 

to the NZ market and continuing to 

push the message that you can drink 

authentic, great-tasting adult drinks, 

and continue to enjoy the ritual of 

drinking but not suffer the harm that 

comes with alcohol. 


New Zealand’s first online store 

solely dedicated to Non Alcoholic 

adult drinks. 

Perfect after a days adventuring - satisfy 

the taste without the after effects. Adult 

drinks that make you feel part of the 

socialising yet let you wake up the next 

day with a clear head ready for your 

next adventure. 

. 

No matter your reason.......we’ve got you covered 

Beers - Wines - Spirits - RTD’s - Ciders - All delivered to your door 

www.clearheaddrinks.co.nz

Got the pip 

In the mix 

O% 

www.clearheaddrinks.co.nz 

www.lyres.com 

www.stateofgracedrinks.co.nz 

www.mondaydistillery.com 

www.hancocks.co.nz 

In the spirit 

On the hop 


Unlike anywhere else? 

Yip. Here’s why... 

For starters, it’s not crowded. 

And the snow is incredible, because of, well, 

British Columbia winters. 

It could be just like anywhere else, but it ain’t. 

Come on over. 

There’s plenty of room. 

And the runs are endless, which means 

tired legs will be stoked to sink into the 

country’s largest slope-side outdoor 

hot pools. Let that soak in! 

The accommodation is right beside the lifts, 

our team is super-friendly, and well, 

it’s Canada, eh? The only thing stuck up here is 

the top of the mountain. It’s all pretty chill. 

(Except for the hot pools. Those are warm.) 

Save up to 

50% OFF 

LODGING & LIFT TICKETS 

See PanoramaResort.com/NZ for details. 

1.800.663.2929 / PanoramaResort.com

THE CARDRONA 

EXPERIENCE 

Established in 2013 The Cardrona experience is situated at 

the base of Cardrona Alpine Resort, just 45 minutes from 

Queenstown and 20 minutes from Wanaka town centre. It was 

started by Kel who had a passion for the region and a deep 

love of horses, which she combined to create an unforgettable 

kiwi experience for everyone. 

Simply The Cardrona activity centre offers first-class, familyfriendly 

guided horse treks and quad biking adventures in the 

stunning Cardrona Valley. You can explore The Cardrona’s 

unique slice of high-country heaven by horseback and quad 

bikes, summer or winter, all year-round. 

The handpicked trekking horses, with their kind and gentle 

temperament, take you on an unforgettable journey in the 

mountains. With a range of ages, heights and ‘horsanalities’ 

across the herd, The Cardrona can cater to different weights 

and experience levels. 

By horseback or quad you can experience the rugged highcountry 

scenery, see its changing moods and picturesque 

seasons which Cardrona Valley is renowned for. Learn about 

the regions gold-mining history, you check out the working 

farm and grab a beer at the iconic Cardrona Hotel. The 

possibilities are endless. 

Group sizes are small & book out quickly so be sure to lock in 

your saddles early to avoid missing out! 

Beginners’ options – to advance All levels catered for 

• Cost $199 - $349 

• How to book www.thecardrona.co.nz 

The most special and exciting way to create your lasting Wanaka memories is from 

horseback or quad bike high up in the stunning mountains of The Cardrona. 

Ride out with THE CARDRONA today to discover the secrets of our unique alpine paradise! 

WWW.THECARDRONA.CO.NZWW.THECARDRONA.CO.NZ

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... 

Roxburgh Gorge trail view 

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 

Tripadvisor 

Travellers’ 

Choice 

Bike It Now! 

⬤⬤⬤⬤⬤

INSULATED JACKETS 

ONE FOR EVERY OCCASSION 

By Lynne Dickinson 

If you take a moment to do a little bit of people watching, you 

will notice that nearly every second person will be wearing what 

we used to call a “puffer jacket”. These days they are not just for 

the avid adventurer, insulated jackets have become a staple in 

everyone’s wardrobe and there is such a variety of them that it is 

easy to get overwhelmed by the choice. 

There are now quite a wide range of fills available, and each 

comes with its pros and cons, so it’s about deciding which one 

best suits your needs. 

Synthetic: These used to be the underdogs of the 

insulated jackets, but as technology has improved 

so has the ability to imitate what nature provides. 

Synthetic fill jackets now are able to imitate the 

properties of down and yet remain water resistant 

enabling you to use your jacket in wet conditions. 

The downside in the past has been the warmth-toweight 

ratio, however, new synthetic insulation, seen 

in some of the high-end technical jackets have been 

engineered to resemble to warmth-to-weight ratios of 

down, and others have developed synthetic fill that is 

able to breathe in high-output activities. 


ab Xenon 2.0 Jacket $279.95 

An all-mountain lightweight, synthetic insulated 

jacket using 100% post-consumer recycled 

PrimaLoft® Silver insulation and a weather 

resistant recycled Pertex® Quantam outer. 

WWW.OUTFITTERS.NET.NZ 

patagonia Micro Puff® Jacket $399.99 

The best warmth for weight of any jacket Patagonia has ever 

built, the Micro Puff® Jacket delivers ultralightweight, waterresistant, 

down-like warmth with PlumaFill synthetic insulation 

– a revolutionary material that replicates the structure of down, 

offering the same warmth and packability but with the warmwhen-wet 

performance of synthetic insulation. This jacket is 

also Fair Trade Certified sewn, which means the people 

who made it earned a premium for their labour. It's available in 

men's and women's cuts, and a range of colours. 

WWW.PATAGONIA.CO.NZ 

Marmot Men’s Solus Jacket $299.95 

3M Thinsulate Recycled Featherless Jacket. 

Made with 75% recycled loose-fill fibres. As warm as 

700 fill power down, and maintains performance in 

wet conditions. 

WWW.MARMOTNZ.CO.NZ 

Wool/synthetic: 

Wool has always been considered one of the best 

forms of insulation and this is now being used in 

insulated jackets. With a high warmth-to-weight ratio 

and its ability to performs well when wet, it’s being 

used in a variety of insulated jackets. The downside 

to wool is simply that it doesn’t reduce in size when 

packed. 

icebreaker Women's MerinoLoft Helix Jacket $399.99 

A technical lofted jacket made with sustainable 

merino wool and recycled materials, the Helix Jacket 

is a warm winter outer layer for everyday versatility. 

WWW.ICEBREAKER.COM 


Down: Down jackets were always 

considered the penultimate in 

insulation. The down (usually geese 

or duck) has an incredibly high 

warmth-to-weight ratio and is the 

best insulator (pound-for-pound) in 

the world. It’s lightweight and packs 

down incredibly small. 

The main downside of the downfilled 

jackets is that they lose their 

heat retaining ability if they get wet. 

This has been counteracted with 

the development of water-resistant 

down. This is simply down treated 

with a water-resistant coating at 

a molecular level. Because the 

coating is applied at a micro scale 

it adds little weight and does not 

affect the loft. 

What is fill power? When looking 

at down jackets you want to take 

note of their “fill power”. This shows 

the quality of the down; the higher 

the number, the more volume the 

down will occupy. A 500-600 range 

fill will require more down (making it 

feel heavier and bulkier) to achieve 

the same warmth as a 800-900 fill. 

Baffles: 

These help maintain an even 

distribution of your fill and prevent 

the material from gathering at the 

bottom of your jacket. 

Wide baffles provide the warmest 

option, although they can 

sometimes feel bulky, whereas 

narrow baffles tend to compress 

the jacket more and therefore work 

well underneath a waterproof outer 

layer and are easy to pack up. 

The baffles have been designed 

to create real style and shape but 

if you are looking for warmth then 

you may want to consider the box 

wall stitched baffles as opposed 

to the stitch-through style. Stitchthrough 

keeps the insulation evenly 

spread, however the fact that it 

is stitched through the jacket can 

cause heat to be lost where the 

stitching is made, whereas the box 

wall stitching allows maximum loft 

and designed to prevent heat loss. 

Shell materials: 

The outer material will also depend 

on the use of your jacket. Some 

are completely waterproof, some 

water resistant and others not really 

designed for wet conditions. 

I have three insulated jackets in 

my wardrobe: One a classic down 

fill vest with durable waterproof 

resistant coating from Huffer with 

wide stitch-through baffles that I 

wear almost daily in the winter with 

jeans. 

One down-filled water-resistant 

jacket from RAB, super lightweight 

but super warm is my go-to when I 

am anywhere near the snow. I also 

take it hiking and it creates a great 

pillow when in its stuff sack. 

My other go-to is a featherless 

Insulation jacket from Marmot, 

which has a super stylish cut 

and cool baffle design. It’s warm 

enough to wear during the height of 

winter but stylish and compactable 

enough fit in any bag and not take 

up too much room. 

Marmot Women’s Highlander Hoody $449.95 

Pertex Quantum® fabric offers wind 

protection while also maximising the 

efficiency and warmth of 700-fillpower-down 

insulation. Lightweight 

and compressible. 


rab Cubit Stretch Down Vest $349.95 

Lightweight, packable and perfect 

for everyday wear, the Cubit Vest 

is cosy, stylish, stretchy, highly 

functional and gives new life to 

quality down. 


outdoor research Helium Down Hoody $449.99 

Durable, abrasion-resistant Pertex® Quantum, 800+ fill 

goose down. A waterproof version of Pertex® Shield with 

Diamond Fuse fabric adds weather protection to the hood and 

shoulders. Available in men's and women's specific versions. 

WWW.BIVOUAC.CO.NZ 


INSULATED.... 

rab Cubit Stretch Down Hoody $499.95 

A functional, everyday wind-resistant 

and lightweight stretch down jacket 

filled with 700FP P.U.R.E recycled 

down and Pertex® 3D Weave outer. 


Marmot Men’s Hype Down Hoody $649.95 

800-fill-power down provides exceptional 

warmth, loft, and compactibility. Pertex 

Quantum® fabric protects from wind and 

improves the efficiency of insulation. 


rab Microlight Alpine Jacket $399.95 

Rab’s classic lightweight highly packable, 

multi-purpose down jacket is an everyday 

jacket and mountain layer featuring a fully 

recycled shell, insulation and lining. 


rab Valiance Jacket $699.95 

The ultimate warm and waterproof down 

jacket made from durable, waterproof 

Pertex® outer and filled with the highest 

quality 800 fill hydrophobic down, keeping 

you warm throughout the winter. 


outdoor research Coldfront Down Jacket $349.99 

700+ fill power of responsibly-sourced-down insulation, 

85%-recycled VerticalX ECO insulation on the top of the 

shoulders and in the cuffs for increased weather resistance and 

a 53%-recycled ripstop exterior to block wind and resist rain and 

snow. Features include internal wrist gaiters with thumb loops. 

Available in men's and women's specific versions. 


Marmot Women’s Featherless Jacket $399.95 

Lightweight 3M Thinsulate Recycled 

Featherless Jacket. Made with 75% recycled 

loose-fill fibres. As warm as 700 fill power down, 

and maintains performance in wet conditions. 

WWW.MARMOTNZ.CO.NZ

MID & SHELLS.... 

Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Hybrid Shell $549.99 

A high-output piece designed to move and breathe 

with you, the Dawn Patrol Shell is the embodiment 

of durability. Designed with four-way stretch and 

double weave fabric, quick movements, banger uphill 

laps and light weather are all covered. Men’s and 

Women’s available. 

WWW.SOUTHERNAPPROACH.CO.NZ 

Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoody $179.99 

The Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoody offers 

ultimate sun coverage as well as water resistance for 

mountain missions with unpredictable weather. 

Men’s and Women’s available. 

WWW.SOUTHERNAPPROACH.CO.NZ 

rab Xenair Alpine Jacket $399.95 

An adaptable synthetic highly 

breathable, weather resistant 

insulated hoody perfect for 

alpine adventures. Made with 

Pertex® Quantum Air outer 

and insulated with PrimaLoft® 

Gold insulation. 


outdoor research snowcrew Jacket $399.99 

Designed for skiers and snowboarders, delivering 

performance, warmth and style with a 56%-recycled 

shell fabric and 85%-recycled insulation. Features 

an adjustable hood with a wire brim that fits most 

snowsports helmets, pit zips for ventilation, a 

powder skirt, fore-arm ski pass pocket and a doubleseparating 

front zip. 


outdoor research Archangel GORE-TEX Bibs $999.99 

3-layer GORE-TEX® Pro and full mobility with 3-layer 

GORE-TEX® Pro Stretch panels where you need 

them - on the knees, lower back and crotch gusset. 

Features include top to bottom zips, adjustable 

venting and cuff size adjustments to fit climbing or ski 

touring boots. 



Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Hybrid pants $479.99 

Designed with a single-minded focus on 

highly efficient mountain travel, the Dawn 

Patrol Pants are the quintessential highoutput 

touring pants. Men’s and Women’s 

available. 

WWW.SOUTHERNAPPROACH.CO.NZ

icebreaker ZoneKnit Merino Long Sleeve 

Half ZipT-Shirt $449.99 

A versatile, body-mapped zipneck 

top that’s ideal for highoutput 

mountain adventures, 

the ZoneKnitLong Sleeve 

Half Zip features 100% merino 

wool for all-natural warmth and 

temperature regulation. 

WWW.ICEBREAKER.CO.NZ 

Icebreaker ZoneKnit Merino Insulated Vest $399.99 

A body-mapped performance vest that’s ideal for 

high-output mountain adventures, the ZoneKnit 

Insulated Vest features 100% merino wool for allnatural 

warmth and temperature regulation. 


icebreaker ZoneKnit Merino Short Sleeve T-Shirt $119.99 

Our most breathable and lightweight tee for highexertion 

activities, the ZoneKnit Short Sleeve Tee 

features a clean design with mesh panels to help 

regulate your body temperature. 


GEAR FOR EVERY ADVENTURER 

www.marmotnz.co.nz

MACPAC'S PERRENIAL FAVOURITES... 

UBER LIGHT RANGE – THE JUST IN CASE LAYER 

Range includes – Jackets, vests and 

women’s coats. Kids’ jackets available 

too. 

True to its name, the Uber Light Range 

provides lightweight warmth without 

the bulk. It's designed to be a versatile 

mid or outer layer — depending on the 

weather — and it's filled with 650 loft 

RDS duck down for cosy warmth. The 

lightweight nylon outer features a water 

repellent finish to help protect against 

moisture, while the elastic bound hem 

and cuffs help to trap heat inside the 

jacket to keep you warmer. The Uber is 

perfect for layering up this season. 

The Responsible Down Standard (RDS) 

is an independent, voluntary global 

standard in the ethical sourcing of down 

and feathers. All Macpac down is 100% 

RDS certified. 

Features: 

• 650 loft Responsible Down 

Standard duck down 

• Lightweight nylon shell with water 

repellent treatment 

• Elastic bound hem and cuffs 

• Zipped hand pockets 

• Packs into tiny stuff sack (included) 

PRICING FROM $159.99 - $289.99 

WWW.MACPAC.CO.NZ 

HALO DOWN RANGE – A REMASTERED CLASSIC 

Range includes – Jackets and vests 

The Halo range balances warmth and 

versatility. This jacket is a great option 

for wearing around town, around the 

hills, and around the campsite. 

Its combination of 100% recycled 

fabrics and 600 loft RDS duck down 

provides plenty of feel good warmth. 

An adjustable hood, hem and cuffs help 

trap heat in, and a PFC-free WR finish 

encourages water to bead and roll off 

the fabric's surface. 

They have also updated a few features 

to modernise the style, as well as 

increasing the size of the internal 

pocket. This removes the need for a 

separate stuff sack because now you 

can pack the jacket in there instead. 

Features: 

• Internal draft tubes 

• Zipped hand pockets 

• Tricot lining on collar and hand 

pockets 

• Adjustable cuffs, hood and hems 

• Packs into internal pocket 

• Regular fit 

PRICING FROM $229.99 - $299.99 

WWW.MACPAC.CO.NZ 


GLERUPS BLACK RUBBER BOOT CHARCOAL $199.00 

Want to discover the comfiness and softness of 100% 

felted wool? Try glerups. Over time glerups will mould 

to your feet for all-day comfort. Available in slipper, 

shoe and boot with a leather or rubber sole. 

glerups is your best adventure accessory. 

WWW.GLERUPS.CO.NZ 

SALEWA WILDFIRE LEATHER $299.90 

The Wildfire Leather is ideal for everyday use, yet provides 

the support and stability required for hiking to light climbing. 

The high-quality, 1.4mm suede upper is supported by a 

protective rubber rand. Underfoot, the POMOCA® Speed 

MTN Path outsole has been developed to ensure versatile 

grip and sure-footed contact. 

WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ/SALEWA 

SALEWA ALP TRAINER 2 $299.90 

The Alp Trainer 2 is a low-cut alpine hiking and trekking 

shoe built for enhanced performance and control in a wide 

spectrum of mountain terrain. Its high-quality, thick suede 

leather upper ensures good comfort and protection and 

is further reinforced with a full 360° rubber rand to see off 

rock and scree. 


SALEWA ALP TRAINER 2 GTX $349.90 

The Alp Trainer 2 GTX has a suede leather and stretch fabric upper 

with a protective rubber rand for protection against rock, scree and 

debris. Featuring a GORE-TEX® Extended Comfort lining for optimal 

waterproofing and breathability. The EVA midsole provides superior 

cushioning and excellent comfort for a technical shoe. 


SALEWA ALP TRAINER 2 MID GTX $399.90 

The Alp Trainer 2 Mid GTX has a suede leather and stretch fabric 

upper with a protective rubber rand. Featuring a GORE-TEX® 

Extended Comfort lining for optimal waterproofing and breathability. 

The customizable Multi Fit Footbed (MFF) with interchangeable layers 

allows you to adapt it to the unique shape of your foot. 


SALEWA MOUNTAIN TRAINER LITE MID GORE-TEX® $399.90 

Made for alpine hiking and long backpacking routes – our 

lightweight, comfortable and supportive mid-cut boot performs well 

on rock and technical terrain. The waterproof, breathable GORE- 

TEX® lining makes it ideal for 3-season use, from higher activity 

levels in summer, to rain, mud or lingering snow. 



gasmate Alpine Butane Stove $79.99 

With a vaporisation tube for consistent 

performance at altitude, the Alpine stove is 

ideal for extended backcountry and alpine 

use. Lightweight at 450g with 11,850 BTUs of 

cooking power. 

WWW.KIWICAMPING.CO.NZ 

Gasmate Turbo Butane Stove & Pot Set 

$149.00 

For quick boiling when you need it! A 

super lightweight aluminium stove with 

quick boil technology, piezo ignition 

and accessories all packaged in a 

handy mesh carry bag. 


Kiwi Camping Mamaku Pro -5°C Sleeping Bag 

$129.00 

The Mamaku Pro -5°C sleeping bag provides 

exceptional warmth on cold adventures. The 

semi-tapered design features a drawstringadjustable 

contoured hood that packs down 

into the handy compression bag for easy pack 

and carry. 


Kiwi camping Mamaku Trek 0°C Sleeping Bag 

$119.00 

The Mamaku Trek 0°C is perfect for lightweight 

hiking with a semi-tapered design and drawstring 

adjustable hood. Complete with thermal lining and 

YKK zippers. 


Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket - Geo $179.99 

The Original Puffy Blanket combines 

the same technical materials found in 

premium sleeping bags and insulated 

jackets to keep you cosy indoors and out. 

WWW.RUMPL.CO.NZ 

local dehy kumera chickpea curry 

$16.50 

Mildly spiced Indian curry with 

spinach & brown rice. Refuel after 

a day's adventure! Dehydrated. 

Vegan. Home compostable 

packaging. 

WWW.LOCALDEHY.CO.NZ 

local dehy hummus $7.00 

Roasted Red Pepper & Sundried 

Tomato, also available in Beetroot 

and Zesty Lemon. Perfect for lunches 

on the trail. Dehydrated. Vegan. 

Home compostable packaging. 

WWW.LOCALDEHY.CO.NZ 

kiwi camping Boost LED Light with 

Power Bank $89.99 

Bright LED light with power bank to 

illuminate your tent and charge devices 

on the go. Features 11 light modes 

including SOS signal, built-in magnets 

and hanging hook. 


Mr Heater Portable Buddy $339.00 

Portable Buddy is a propane gas heater that 

is both lightweight and robust heating up to 

18m². Featuring a low oxygen and accidental 

tip-over safety shut-off. 



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 

TIRED 

LEGS? 

TRY OUR NEW 

APPLE & BERRY 

CRUMBLE 

DESSERT. 

deepcreek local ipa $3.79 

With only 93 calories per can, 

this mid-strength, refreshing, low 

calorie IPA is the perfect beer for 

the active lifestyle! 

WWW.DCBREWING.CO.NZ 

KEA KIT: Outdoor Survival System 

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 

hydro flask 12L Carry Out Soft 

Cooler 249.99 

Colder. Longer. Lighter. The 

perfect compact size to bring a 

little or a lot along for the day. 

Keeps items fresh for up to 24 

hours. 

WWW.HYDROFLASK.CO.NZ 

backcountrycuisine.co.nz 

 

 

Shackleton Blended Malt Scotch 

Born from Adventure: Shackleton Blended 

Malt Scotch is based on the spirit supplied to 

the 1907 British Antarctic Expedition, expertly 

crafted using a selection of the finest Highland 

Single Malt Scotch Whiskies. Available at 

various Liquor Retailers . 

WWW.GLENGARRYWINES.CO.NZ 

JÄGERMEISTER COLD BREW COFFEE 

Inspired by the innovative, 

everchanging drinks scene, 

we instinctively knew how a 

drop of Jägermeister and a 

backbeat of cold brew coffee 

could transform any night. The 

enviable result? A brand-new 

mix. JÄGERMEISTER COLD 

BREW COFFEE. A unique 

fusion of JÄGERMEISTER’s 

56 botanicals and intense cold 

brew coffee. 

WWW.LIQUORLAND.CO.NZ

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 

Quest bike trailers $1495 inc GST 

Designed and engineered 

in the Southern Alps of New 

Zealand, it will take you on 

and off the road carrying all 

the necessities to have a great 

time exploring our beautiful 

cycle trails or on that epic 

overseas adventure. 

WWW.QUESTBIKETRAILERS.COM 

aleck 006 

Universal Wireless Helmet Audio 

& Communication Aleck 006 is the 

bluetooth drop-in system that puts 

your soundtrack into your snow helmet 

and keeps you connected to friends 

and family with easy, push-to-talk 

communication. 

WWW.ALECK.IO 

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 

INSTANT PASTA $4.89 

Just add boiling water for perfectly cooked 

pasta. 

3.5 Health Stars 

Sizes – Family 120g 

WWW.BACKCOUNTRYCUISINE.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 

Experts at adventure travel since 2000 

We live what we sell! 

www.madabouttravel.co.nz 

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. 

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

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

t r a v e l 

FIJI 

DESTINATION ADVENTURE 

Fiji has for centuries been the 

quintessential South Pacific tourist 

destination for beaches and cocktails 

by the pool. Sure, Fiji has all that, but 

there is so much more; with such a 

unique position in the South Pacific 

and an array of beaches, crystal 

shallow water, vast oceans, rivers and 

mountains. Fiji has everything to offer 

those looking for an island adventure. 


Exploring an isolated cave, Fiji

Clockwise from top left: Surfing Cloudbreak, one of the many spots to surf in Fiji / Mount Tomaniivi Summit (aka Mt. Victoria) - Fiji's highest 

mountain - on the Cross-Island hike with Talanoa Treks. / Sigatoka Sand Dunes Sunset 

Fishing 

With Fiji having some of the most 

incredible marine life globally, Fishing 

is slowly becoming a popular sport in 

the island nation. With such a dense 

underwater eco-system, the oceans 

of Fiji offer everything from Tuna and 

Marlin to Wahoo, Walu and Mahi Mahi, 

there’s plenty to catch that will challenge 

even the most seasoned fisherman. 

Although Fiji’s tropical waters house 

fish throughout the year, some types 

are more plentiful at certain times than 

others. If you’re looking to catch Mahi 

Mahi, you can do so year-round, but 

you’ll find them in abundance from 

December through to February and 

again July through to August. Giant 

Trevally flock Fiji’s waters around 

February through to April, Wahoo from 

July through to August, Blue Marlin 

February through to March and Yellowfin 

Tuna making a popular appearance from 

March to April 

On Namotu, Big Game Fishing is 

something not to miss. While people 

generally come for the surf, they can’t 

help but take some time out to try their 

hand at fishing and have a freshly 

caught fish for dinner when they return. 

Half Cast Charters, operated through 

Volivoli Beach Resort offers some of 

Fiji’s best Big Game Fishing on The 

Bligh waters. The waters between the 

islands of Viti Levu where the resort 

is located, and Vanua Levu combined 

with depth and reef structure allows for 

amazing sports and game fishing. It’s 

hard to resist the chance to relax on the 

open waters with a cold one as you wait 

for a bite. 

Dive into happiness 

Dive into some of the world’s most 

beautiful and colourful network of 10359 

square kilometres of coral reef, including 

the world-famous Great Astrolabe Reef. 

With more than 1000 species of fish 

and several hundred sorts of coral and 

sponges, Fiji offers an abundance of 

unique diving snorkelling experiences. 

You can even get up close and personal 

with some of the oceans friendly giants 

if you go at the right time of year – you 

can swim with Manta Rays or Hawksbill 

Turtles. 

Located between the second and third 

largest islands of Fiji, Vanua Levi and 

Taveuni, Rainbow Reef offers a display 

of vibrant colours under the water, 

provided by the hard and soft corals and 

marine life that call the area home. 

There are around 230 hard and soft 

corals creating a feast for the eyes. With 

the fantastical beauty, it’s no wonder that 

this is one of the top diving destinations 

in the world. Plunging your face beneath 

the surface of these warm waters, you’re 

bound to forget the world above sea 

level for a few breathless moments. 

Discover Fiji by foot (or dune buggie) 

Fiji isn’t just white sand beaches, 

although there are plenty of those 


Clockwise from top left: Beautiful beaches await / Aerial of the Wainibau waterfall at the end of the Lavena Coastal Walk. Bouma National 

Heritage Park, Taveuni / Underwater image of lady freediving and spearfishing near Savasi 

too! From stunning waterfalls, lush 

tropical rain forests, rugged coastline 

and dramatic mountain tops, there’s 

so much to explore by foot. There is a 

reason why Taveuni is referred to as the 

‘Garden Island’ of Fiji—80% of the island 

is covered by tropical rainforests, along 

with natural rockslides and ancient lava 

flow. Then there’s the Sigatoka Sand 

Dunes, whose rolling sand dunes are 

something straight out of Arabian nights! 

Challenge yourself and climb the 

highest mountain in Fiji, Mt Tomaniivi 

(Mt Victoria). The best way to tackle 

the mountain is with Talanoa Treks on 

their overnight excursion. Walk through 

some magnificent cloud forest to reach 

the summit at 1,323m. On a clear day, 

you will have some amazing views 

across Viti Levu. Be rewarded at the end 

with afternoon tea and a dip in the river 

before heading back to the coast. 

Get yourself on Fiji’s only self-drive 

dune buggies on a guided tour with 

Terratrek. Discover Fiji’s most beautiful 

waterfalls and rainforests or head up into 

the mountains for panoramic views with 

outlooks on the Pacific Ocean. 

Explore the secret spots of Fiji 

Ditch the pool side lounge chair and sign 

up for an adventure you’ll never forget! 

Whether it’s kayaking or rafting on the 

Navua River, jet boating up the Sigatoka 

River or zip-lining through tropical 

rainforests, there are adventures for 

everyone of any age. 

Described as an ‘underwater cathedral’, 

the Sawa-I-Lau Caves in the northern 

Yasawa Islands are a must-do when 

visiting Fiji. Sculpted by centuries of 

wave erosion eating away at limestone, 

you’ll be absolutely blown away by the 

spectacular natural architecture right in 

front of you. Sunlight streams down into 

the Pantheon-esque cave – the roof of 

the cave soars over 15 metres above 

the water. Guides from the local village 

are available to take you through an 

underwater passage to reach a secret 

adjoining chamber – all you’ll need is the 

right gear, and a reasonable helping of 

courage. 

Hang loose on the waves 

Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, there 

are plenty of waves to catch in Fiji. For 

those after leisurely longboard breaks, 

head to Natadola Beach on the Coral 

Coast. But for those wanting to put their 

skills to the test, have a go at what the 

locals call ‘Thunder Reef’, Kelly Slater’s 

favourite, Cloudbreak the Mamanuca 

Islands. If you want to watch the drama 

from afar, there are many boats that take 

you out to watch the action on the waves 

with a cold one in hand. For those 

wanting an all-inclusive surf holiday, stay 

at Namotu Island Surf Resort , which is 

located near many famous breaks and 

offer yoga and massages to help you 

recover after a big day on the waves. 

To find out more visit www.fiji.travel 


t r a v e l 

NIUE 

LIKE NOWHERE ELSE 

The South Pacific island of Niue is one of 

the smallest countries in the world, on one 

of the largest raised coral atolls on earth 

and it prides itself on being ‘special’. 

Niue and its people have won numerous 

awards for environmental programmes and 

sustainability, and it’s uniquely not just for 

the tourists. The whole community is on 

board and involved with looking after and 

maintaining Niue’s unique aspects both 

above and below the water. 

The absence of surface running water such 

as streams and creeks contributes to the 

island’s pristine crystal-clear surrounding 

ocean, the clarity of which is unforgettable. 

With no lagoon or fringing reef, the steep 

drop-off is just meters from the land, pelagic 

migratory fish such as yellow-fin tuna and 

wahoo, which are normally deep-sea fish 

are caught no more than two hundred 

metres from shore and are in abundance. 

I personally have fished all over the South 

Pacific and there is nowhere like Niue! 

When Captain Cook first visited Niue 

he tried to land three times but gave up 

because he thought that the natives who 

came to greet them were painted in blood. 

(The locals in fact had eaten a native red 

banana, called the hula-hula.) 

Niue island is pristinely clean and those that 

do live there take great pride in their island, 

and unlike what Captain Cook thought they 

could not be more welcoming to visitors. 

For such a small atoll there is plenty to do: 

When you go to Niue you can swim with 

spinner dolphins and see whales close up in 

season. It must be the only island that has 

an honesty bar. You can visit the smallest 

yacht club in the world, catch an Uga 

[coconut crab], or snorkel in warm, safe rock 

pools teeming with colourful fish. 

E 


What is unique about Niue as an island 

is its isolation and its coral origins that 

create a unique coastline. The whole 

island is dotted with a myriad of caves, 

sheltered rocky coves, chasms and secret 

beaches. The Huval Rainforest is home 

to stunning indigenous trees and these 

have been designated as a Conservation 

Area to protect and conserve the island’s 

primary rainforest. 

One of the most famous chasms, is 

the Matapa Chasm, in the village of 

Hikutavake. An amazing and safe place 

to swim and snorkel, encased by steep 

cliffs overhanging a deep long cool pool 

and as always full of fish. It is next to the 

open ocean but isolated from its currents 

by large boulders on the seaward side 

creating a natural swimming pool. 

Another well-photographed feature of 

the island is Talava Arches. A massive 

rock archway noted by Captain Cook 

in the late 1700’s, it is surrounded by a 

network of complex caves. As with most 

of Niue, there is good tourist access, but 

it is natural, you need to wear good shoes 

and stick to the created paths. 

Apart from simply exploring Niue, you can 

also go kayaking, biking, fishing, diving 

(Niue Blue dive company offers PADI 

certified dives). Niue is distinct from all 

the other South Pacific islands because 

there are no beaches as such. But there 

are kilometres of coastline to explore. 

There is locally available a map that not 

only tells you how to get to a range of 

amazing caves and chasms but also tells 

you what tides are best for exploring each 

of them (by my own experience it pays to 

do your homework). 

Niue is walking the talk on environmental 

protection with the creation of the ‘Niue 

Nukutuluea Multi-Use Marine Park’. The 

Niue Oceanwide project (NOW) has been 

a significant part of Niue’s sustainable 

development over the last decade. Based 

on scientific assessment and thousands 

of years of traditional knowledge, Niue 

has established 40% of its region as a 

‘no-take’ Large Scale Marine Protected 

Area (Niue Mona Mahu) which is 

significant for a Pacific Island that relies 

on fish. More details here about Niue 

Marine Park can be found here: 

www.niueoceanwide.com 

Something new, (but has always been 

there) is star gazing, and once again 

there is nowhere like Niue. Niue was the 

world’s first whole country to become 

a ‘Dark Sky Place’, receiving formal 

accreditation from the International Dark- 

Sky Association (IDA) as an ‘International 

Dark Sky Sanctuary’ and ‘International 

Dark Sky Community’, covering the whole 

of Niue with Dark Sky protection and 

deeming it a ‘dark sky nation’. 

Niuean’s have a long history of star 

navigation and visitors to Niue can view 

the spectacle of an unspoilt night sky. 

Guided Astro-tours are led by trained 

Niuean community members. Niue’s 

viewing sites currently used for whalewatching, 

are also ideal spots for Dark 

Sky viewing. More details here: 

www.niueisland.com/darkskynation 

The list of what Niue has on offer to 

experience and to do is long! 

BORDER OPENING / WEEKLY 

FLIGHTS FROM NZ: 

Niue's border with NZ reopens, and 

weekly flights from Auckland commence 

from Tuesday 28 June 2022. 

JUST 3 ½ HOURS AWAY: Although 

Niue is a world apart, the island is just 

a 3 ½ hour flight on Air New Zealand 

departing each Tuesday morning (but 

check online as the day of week could 

change). 

AVOID THE CROWDS: With a land 

area of 260sq. kms there is space for 

you here. When out exploring you often 

feel like you are the first one to discover 

the many secluded coves, caves and 

pools. 

Niue even uses NZ dollars – and 

English is spoken universally. 

To find out more visit: 

www.niueisland.com 


Real explorers, 

Real Niue. 

Niue’s borders reopen 28 June 2022. 

Your average traveller won’t be able to tell you where Niue is on a map – which is 

why you won’t find the average traveller in Niue. What you will find is the world’s 

largest raised coral atoll; unspoilt, majestic and waiting for you to explore. 

Start exploring Niue today, www.niueisland.com

t r a v e l 

THE ISLANDS OF TAHITI 

A WAVE RICH PARADISE 

Images by Steve Dickinson 

As with most iconic surf destinations, it is only the 

perfect days or the outrageous days that find their 

way into the media. 

French Polynesia is an amazing surf destination 

for everyone, even on the not so perfect days. 

It is about halfway between South America 

and Australia, this wave rich part of French 

Polynesia’s most notorious islands chain it known 

for its crystal-clear water, crisp clean barrels 

and the notorious wave of death, Teahupoo 

(actually surprisingly only one person has died 

here and that was in 2000). Personally, I have 

seen Teahupoo at is worst (best) during Code 

Red in 2011, when the waves were so huge and 

ferocious that the ocean was closed by the local 

council to all water activities (known as Code 

Red). However, this was ignored by the big wave 

surfers of the region, and I was lucky enough to 

be there. In a lifetime of photographing surfing, 

I have never seen anything even come close to 

the magnitude and power of the waves on that 

day. But that was a once in a lifetime event, most 

days surfing in Tahiti can simply described as 

‘mellow fun’.

Previous Page: Teahupoo at its best 

Above: A boat is the best way to reach the breaks in Tahiti 

Top Right: They start them young in this neck of the woods 

Bottom Right: Tikanui Smith at Ta'apuna 

Unlike a lot of surf destinations around 

the world French Polynesia's locals are 

welcoming and friendly. They love the 

fact that you have come to share in their 

wave abundance and if treated with the 

respect you will make local friends in no 

time! 

French Polynesia is not one island but 

actually 118 islands spread across five 

archipelagos. Every island has some 

sort of wave at some time of the year. 

Access to most of the reef passes 

require a boat, however, there are 

numerous water taxis that will take you 

and even homestays (pensions) where 

trips out to the local breaks and a surf 

guide are all part of the package. 

There are a few breaks around the main 

city and as you would expect these do 

get more crowded, one great break is 

Taa’puna; seeing it close enough to 

paddle out too and fairly consistent not 

to mention only the five minutes from 

Papeete, it gets busy. 

Further up the coast there is the black 

sand beach break of Papara, which is 

good for kids and families. 

Continue on that same road (there 

is only one) and you will arrive at 

Teahupoo, which is a very long paddle 

but do-able and can get crazy but 

normally only when it gets really big. 

If it is big and you really just want to 

just look, you can pick up a water taxi 

from the Teahupoo marina for an hour 

viewing. 

Unlike beach breaks, which most of us 

are used to riding, most of the waves in 

French Polynesia are reef based, which 

often means they are shallow and if you 

fall you don’t bounce off the sand but 

get scratched up by the coral. It worth 

spending some time watching the locals 

to see how to avoid this. 

Another issue not often discussed is 

water flow. A lot of the reef-based waves 

are in a pass. Where water travels from 

in the lagoon out to open water and it 

can be a lot more like a river than a rip, 

once again keep an eye on the locals to 

know where to go and where to sit. 

Best Surf Seasons in French 

Polynesia 

March - June: From March to June, 

the southern hemisphere comes alive, 

putting up consistent south swells that 

create some great surf options. 

During winter: Once again there is 

consistent swell throughout the whole of 

winter right up until October. 

Spring: As summer arrives things 

start to quieten down a little especially 

towards the end of October this is also 

the rainy season but it’s still warm and if 

you want to hunt around there is always 

swell somewhere. 

Summer: November to March is 

basically their summer and surf is 

smaller and less consistent. 

The bottom line for surf travel is don’t 

always make it about the waves. If 

you just focus on just the surf, you will 

fail to see what an amazing place any 

surf destination can be. The trick is to 

love where you are and then add great 

surf as the cherry on the cake. French 

Polynesia has a huge amount to offer 

and great waves for everyone are just a 

part of the full experience. 

To see what is available visit www.tahititourisme.nz/en-nz/ 



Cook Islands. 

Lonely Planet’s top place to visit in 2022 

Float above the world’s bluest blue 

OVERWATER HEAVEN

t r a v e l 

VANUATU 

THE PLACE FOR YOU! 

Life is about Moments! There are 

moments that makes use laugh, cry or 

change our perspective and open our 

eyes and hearts. 

The moments we remember are those if 

consequence and significance – the ones 

we file away in the scrapbooks of our 

lives. That’s especially true when it comes 

to holidays and probably even more so 

now. 

A visit to Vanuatu holds the promise 

of incredible moments to be made, 

remembered and shared. It is these 

moments that define our experience and 

call us back for another stay. 

Vanuatu is not a about a simple list of 

things to see and do, but more about 

how it makes you feel. Its about moments 

that connect us to people, places, and 

emotions. When you Answer the Call 

of Vanuatu, you’ll be swept away in any 

number of incredible moments that will 

make you feel good. 

After all a holiday isn’t meant to be 

taken to seriously: its about letting go 

and getting ready to leap into your next 

adventure. 

We know people are still keen to get out 

and experience the world in full colour. 

Making connections, experiencing 

different, treading lightly, but mostly 

jumping into another place entirely both 

physically and mentally. It is also clear 

that smaller is better when it comes to 

fellow travellers. 

To be honest this is pretty much the 

holiday experience in Vanuatu pre all the 

challenges of the past few years, so I 

guess we are good are it. 

Vanuatu is slowing starting the re-opening 

process and over 2022 will gradually 

reduce the restrictions and requirements 

of entry. This will be a gradual process 

linked to vaccination targets. 

So, what is it about Vanuatu that will 

make it a strong contender for your 

holiday shopping list as travel gets freer? 


Above: Matava River, Santo - Image by Joel Johnsson

1. Get Back to Your Passions: Whether it 

be walking, diving, canyoning, or exploring 

volcanos now will be the time to get back 

to your passions. I am sure you have a 

full bucket list of sites to dive or walks to 

traverse can we suggest you make sure 

that Vanuatu on your list. 

There will be some you know about such 

as the President Coolidge wreck dive in 

Espiritu Santo, but we offer much more 

than that without having your fellow diver 

right next to you. The coral reefs and 

fish life off Tanna are yet to really be 

discovered and Hideaway and Tranquillity 

Islands are eagerly waiting to do what they 

do best. 

The remote Island of Gaua offers a 4-day 

hike with local guides to the highest 

waterfall in Vanuatu, Siri Falls, after 

canoeing across Lake Letus. Oh, and did 

we mention that you also stride up Mount 

Garet the highest peak on the island and 

an active volcano. 

2. Off the Grid: Do you feel the need to 

lose yourself in an environment where few 

people venture? Or to hangout in a no fuss 

bungalow on the beach or by the side of 

a volcano enjoy the hospitality of a local 

family who have looked after the land for 

forever? 

There is no shortage of off the grid 

locations and experiences across Vanuatu. 

These special locations offer some of the 

most relaxing and freeing experiences 

as you simply can’t bring your everyday 

habits with you. 

Imagine: - 

• Spending 4 days at Lonnoc Eco Beach 

Above: Gaua - Mbe Solomul River 

Insert: Tanna Kastom celebrations 

Bungalows set in tropical gardens amidst 

blue holes, Champagne Beach, and 

Lonnoc Beach right in front of you for 

swimming and snorkelling. 

• Pele Island and its neighbour Nguna 

are in MPA Nguna-Pele Marine Protected 

Area. The island are a short boat trip 

from mainland Efate which transport you 

into the truly beautiful location. There 

are plenty of island bungalows to choose 

from and your daily activities can be 

hiking, hammocking, banana boat safaris, 

snorkelling or fishing. 

• Perched up in a treehouse amongst 

the canopy of a banyan tree surround by 

birdsong and looking out to the rumblings 

of Mount Yasur, one of the worlds most 

accessible volcanos, on Tanna Island is 

about as off the grid as you can get. Set in 

the middle of a local village experiencing 

real island life is part of the journey. 

Jungle Oasis Bungalows, Banyan Castle 

Bungalows or Tanna Yasur Homestay 

Bungalows love sharing their connection to 

the land and life living next to a volcano. 

3. Connection and Kastom: Kastom 

is what holds community, family, and 

connection together in Vanuatu. It is 

unwritten and unspoken but demonstrated 

everyday in how things get done. Kastom 

respects the land, the people, and the 

community. 

How can you experience Kastom as a 

visitor? Spend some time in the markets, 

attend an event such as the Naghol (land 

diving) in Pentecost, talk to the Mama’s 

with their skilfully made handicrafts or 

watch the kids play fearlessly in the water, 

lagoons, and Blue Holes. It is part of life in 

Vanuatu so really you don’t need to look it 

will be part of what makes you let of your 

comfort zone but still feel safe. 

4. Adventure: Adventure, the dictionary 

definition is and exciting or remarkable 

experience. For some it will be the local 

market and the new foods, sounds and 

laughter or other pushing themselves 

on the hike into the Millennium Cave, or 

choosing the option to channel your inner 

explorer and walk for 3 days to the volcano 

rather than 4WD. Adventure has never 

been so much fun as it is Vanuatu. 

5. Road Not Travelled: If being the only 

visitor at a particular time is your idea of 

how a trip of discovery should be, staying 

with a family in their bungalow, after 

catching a light aircraft over the islands, 

Vanuatu could keep you travelling for 

quite some time. Below are a couple of 

suggestions but there really is no shortage 

of opportunities. 

•Epi Island 

•Maskalyne Islands 

•Rah and the Rock of Rah 

•Moon Cave and Maewo 

•Hiking up the little explored volcanos of 

Ambrym 

For more information check-out www.vanuatu.travel

1.30pm Siri Falls, Gaua 

Hiking Diving Culture 

Volcanos 

Go explore at vanuatu.travel

Boots 

Packs 

Rainwear 

Sleeping Bags 

All your tramping & trail essentials! 

Same shop & family since 1988. 

Fuel your adventure! 

Delicious dehydrated meals by Local Dehy 

are made in Wānaka by adventurers, for 

adventurers. All our meals are 100% 

vegan, bursting with flavour and come in 

lightweight home-compostable packaging. 

Order online today and enjoy memorable 

plant-based meals on your next adventure. 

www.localdehy.co.nz 

LOCAL DEHY 

FOOD FOR THE HILLS HILLS 

adventure ad 3.indd 1 

10/05/2022 3:49:06 PM 

S.A Shuttles are a specialists when it comes to Auckland Airport shuttle 

services. We pick-up passengers from the Airport and deliver to; hotels, 

motels, CBD and the suburbs (door to door). This service is available to 

meet every flight arriving into Auckland Airport. 

• BOOKED shuttle services to meet flight 

• On demand shuttle services for group bookings 

• Direct shuttle for individual needs 

• Corporate Transfers for Business Client 

We also do tours around the North Island | www.southaucklandshuttles.com | bookings@sashuttles.com | 0800 300 033 (Toll free)

Adventure 

MustHaves 

Keep powered on any adventure 

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

The Old Nurses hOme 

GuesThOuse 

Welcome to The Old Nurses Home Guesthouse 

This historic renovated building in Reefton allows you to enjoy the stunning 

Victoria Conservation Park with access to outstanding bush walks, historic 

mining sites, and withing 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. 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. 

www.reeftonaccommodation.co.nz 

+6437328881 

info@reeftonaccommodation.co.nz 

“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

A digital currency 

designed for everyday 

payments 

qoin.world 

Available to download on

Jeep ® Gladiator, engineered from the ground up to be a true 4x4 adventure truck, ready to transport you down 

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

Adventure 232

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?