Adventure Magazine

adventure
where actions speak louder than words
where actions speak louder than words
ISSUE 243
Apr/May 2024
NZ $11.90 incl. GST
SURVIVAL
INCREDIBLE TALES OF SURVIVING NATURES FURY

Pure
joy
comes
to
those
who
hike.
The roll of the dice
We had recently returned from Hokkaido, Japan when we heard
the new of Isabella Bolton and Joshua Sellens.
Sadly as these pages went to print two young Kiwis, Isabella
Bolton, 21 And Joshua Sellens 33, lost their lives in an avalanche in
Japan on Mt Yotei in Hokkaido. Both were experienced riders and
both knew the area well.
Coincidentally, this issue of Adventure is about surviving; about
keeping safe and making the right decision. Survival is all about
taking precautions, mitigating risks, making good choices, and
weighing up all the danger factors. But at the end of the day, no
matter how careful you are, how risk-averse or cautious you are,
sometimes you are just unlucky.
There is a full feature on social media misadventures on page 30,
now I am sure those people didn’t put their hands up to get killed,
but if you hug a wild leopard or hang by your fingernails from the
72nd floor, you are not being cautious nor risk averse.
But, if you have checked the conditions, examined the terrain, taken
good advice, and gone with experience and the right gear, then
sometimes, when things go wrong it is just the roll of the dice and
sometimes chance does not go your way.
Adventure sports are about reward; that is why we do them; the thrill,
the excitement, and the fun, but there is a risk, and sometimes, risk
catches up with you through no fault of your own.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families of those who have lost
loved ones in Japan, and cliche as it sounds, doing what they loved.
Steve Dickinson
Editor
Mt Yotei, Hokkaido
SIDE NOTE: This issue many of the stories
are supplied by people who were in the
moment, doing their best to survive, so some
of the photos may be a little blurry, others a
little shaky - as you read through the pages,
keep in mind the photographers had other
things on their minds...
Men’s
Women’s
All New: Moab Speed 2
The future of hiking.
merrell.co.nz
| | |

We Are Every
Hard-Won
Summit
BEHIND THE COVER
25 year old Tom Mahuta Robinson
embarked on an extreme adventure when
he set out to design, build and row across
the Pacific Ocean.
He spent a total of 265 days at sea in
complete isolation, travelled thousands of
miles and experienced incredible highs.
He also experienced his fair share of
challenges. This photo was taken as he
documented his journey.
For the full story, see page 10
EDITOR & ADVERTISING MANAGER
Steve Dickinson
Mob: 027 577 5014
steve@pacificmedia.co.nz
ART DIRECTOR
Lynne Dickinson
design@pacificmedia.co.nz
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These excerpts can be found on the Adventure traveller website www.adventuretraveller.co.nz
TURTLE SEASON ON NINGALOO REEF
Down on the shoreline in the moonlight, tiny waves are rippling
around a rock. Suddenly the rounded lump shifts forwards, and
then again. Not a boulder after all but a mature female green turtle
hauling her 150kg body out of the ocean. Lumbering up the beach,
leaving a trail like a tractor tyre, she’s searching for the best nesting
site. Her in-built GPS has led her back to Ningaloo Reef (Nyinggulu),
possibly to the same beach on which she herself hatched from an
egg decades ago.
we ARE tramping
From November to March, this scene plays out night after night
along Ningaloo Reef. For lucky humans who have witnessed this
miracle of nature, it’s simply unforgettable, and for the best chance
of a turtle encounter, it pays to join a professionally guided tour.
During turtle nesting season, Exmouth Adventure Co. operates a
Summer Sunset Turtle Watching Tour .
ALASKA PLUNGES INTO DEEP FREEZE WITH
TEMPERATURES WELL BELOW ZERO -40
In March, much of Alaska plunged into a deep freeze,
with temperatures dipping as low as -40 degrees
Fahrenheit in some places. Anchorage is seeing
some of its coldest temperatures in years as the
mayor of the state’s largest city opened warming
facilities for those who are homeless or who don’t
have reliable heating. The extreme cold in some
areas caused heating fuel to thicken, breaking
heaters, and in Anchorage, the roofs of at least two
businesses collapsed under the weight of the snow.
Meanwhile, Alaska’s capital, Juneau, set a new
January snowfall record of more than 6.5 feet.
RUN10023
NIUE’S HIKULAGI SCULPTURE PARK:
A GLOBAL MICROCOSM
Sitting incongruously in the middle of the natural rainforest of
the Pacific Island of Niue is a physically small but conceptually
monumental treatise on global environment concerns, the Hikulagi
Sculpture Park. Artist Mark Cross explains why this remote island
sculpture park is of international relevance.
The Hikulagi Park was established in 1996 by members of the then
Tahiono Arts Collective, a small group of artists and art enthusiasts
who had returned to their Pacific home, countering the trend of
urban drift that has devastated many rural and island populations in
the Pacific.
In the case of Niue, much of the land was abandoned after having
been rendered largely infertile by naive colonial horticultural
methods. The artists saw this land as a tabular rasa, a blank canvas
where they could produce works of art that not only enhanced
the land but also spoke of the very cause of its infertility. Several
acres of such land south of the eastern village of Liku were at the
artists’ disposal and, while being ideal for the purpose of the artists’
environmental concerns, it was also ironically surrounded by the
pristine rainforest which once covered the now degraded land.
Whether it’s a day trip with the family or a multi-day adventure deep into the wilderness, Bivouac has the best
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Photo: Mark Watson
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4//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243
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These excerpts can be found on the Ski & Snow website www.skiandsnow.co.nz
STAY IN BOUND - MASS RESCUE
On January 20th, a backcountry rescue unfolded near
Vermont’s Killington ski resort, involving 23 skiers and
snowboarders caught in freezing temperatures. The group,
primarily front-side resort participants, made an ill-fated
decision to venture into the backcountry from Killington
Resort, ignoring warnings and heading beyond designated
boundaries near the Snowdon Six Express lift.
Descending into Brewers Brook, a steep gully with powder
accumulation, the group reached the bottom only to face
a challenging 2.5-mile trek over steep and icy terrain.
Lacking essential touring equipment like climbing skins or
splitboards, they became exhausted, cold, and disoriented.
Your alpine
adventure
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offers an array of amenities including an
18-hole championship golf course, archery,
claybird shooting, and more. Adventure
awaits with biking, walking, and jet boating
along the Rakaia Gorge nearby. After an
action-packed day, relax in our comfortable
accommodations and savor delicious cuisine
at our onsite restaurant. Book your stay now!
THIRD PLACE FINISH FOR FINN BILOUS
AT FINAL STOP OF THE 2024 FREERIDE WORLD TOUR
Finn Bilous (Wānaka, 24) has finished in third place at the final
stop of the 2024 Freeride World Tour, held on the formidable Bec
des Rosses in Verbier, March 2024.
Bilous put down an incredible run, including a gnarly 360 over the
Hollywood cliff and a huge cross-court 360 on the super exposed
face, impressing the judges and delighting the huge crowd
gathered at the bottom.
Search and Rescue coordinator for the Vermont State
Police, disclosed that despite being in the backcountry,
the individuals were not experienced in such terrain. With
growing severity, 21 skiers and snowboarders, including
six children, initiated multiple distress calls to 911. This
prompted a daring rescue mission, highlighting the critical
importance of preparedness in the unpredictable Vermont
backcountry.
When asked about throwing the 360 off the Hollywood cliff, Bilous
explained; “We came here last year, looked at this face for a whole
week and never got to ski it, so it has been percolating away in the
back of my brain. Conditions lined up this year and I had to do it. I
am glad it worked out, it was pretty scary with the flat light in there
and punchy snow but I am stoked with how it turned out.”
The men’s categories dropped in from the very top of the Bec
des Rosses for the first time since 2018, providing some of the
most technical and exposed terrain in any freeride competition
on the planet. The conditions on the face over the last five years
have been challenging, rendering the top of the mountain unsafe
for freeride competition so lower start positions have been used
instead. However, the snow and weather conditions aligned,
making for an incredible display of riding from all the athletes.
KIWI SPEED SKIER TAWNY WAGSTAFF CLAIMS FIRST
WORLD CUP PODIUM OF HIS CAREER
Tawny Wagstaff (Methven) has claimed the first speed skiing
world cup podium of his career with a third place finish in
Vars, France. This result also marks the first speed skiing
world cup podium for a New Zealand athlete since FIS record
keeping started in 2002.
6//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243
Wagstaff reached a mind-boggling speed of 212.61Kph to
secure the bronze medal. He was just 1.9Kph behind sixtime
speed skiing world champion Simone Origone of Italy
who took the win. Simon Billy of France rounded out the
podium in second place.
Wagstaff said, “I am very happy, I have put a lot of work
in over the last year so it is nice to see the rewards of my
efforts. The course was in excellent condition with light
winds. The top guys are something else, legends at what
they do, generally only 1-2Kph separates the podium so
can be very close.”
Remaining calm before each race, knowing he is going to
travel at incredibly high speeds, is an art. He explained; “I
rely on many coaching techniques, deep breaths, being in
the moment and trusting what I’m good at, it’s a challenge
but what I live for. Taking in the intensity, it’s not often in life
we can have this feeling so I make the most of it.”
Wagstaff is also the current New Zealand speed skiing
record holder. He clocked an incredible speed of
248.61Kph in March last year at the same venue as today’s
podium success.
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Queenstown done right...
A winter wonderland
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RIDE FOR REFUGE
FORGOTTEN WORLD ADVENTURES is excited to announce its
inaugural fundraiser event to be held on Saturday 13th April 2024. They
will be welcoming on board rugby royalty Sir Wayne Smith KNZM, who
will ride the rails with members of the public who book to take part in
this special event.
Forgotten World Adventures are proud supporters of the Taumarunui
Women's Refuge & Support Centre, which provides vital support and
services in the community in which they operate. All proceeds of the
event will go to the Refuge as they attempt to promote awareness and
support the women and families affected by violence. Their staff will
also be donating their time to the cause.
New Zealand rugby union coach and former player Sir Wayne Smith
was assistant coach of the All Blacks for 16 years and is regarded as
one of the greatest coaches in history, having won three Rugby World
Cups, most recently as head coach of the Black Ferns in 2022. Wayne
was promoted to Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit
in 2023 for services to rugby and his charity work helping children with
cerebral palsy.
Nestled in the heart of Queenstown
amidst a picturesque wonderland.
Hulbert House provides a cosy
luxurious escape, with views of the
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the snow drift down.
Guests can expect a full day’s itinerary which will see the group travel
with an expert guide and conductors along 40km of the old Stratford-
Okahukura Railway line in self-driven rail carts through pristine native
bush, beautiful farmland and forgotten townships, from Tokirima to the
self-proclaimed, unique Republic of Whangamōmona. Commentary
about the cultural and historical significance of the railway, its hand-built
tunnels, bridges, pioneering engineers and the surrounding region will
be provided at scheduled stops along the way.
The event package costs $425 per person - all enquiries to be directed
to bookings@fwa.co.nz or call 0800 7245 2278 to speak to the
bookings team.
Book directly and you can save up
to 25% for multi-night stays.
68 Ballarat Street, Queenstown

SURVIVAL
the best laid plans
of mice and men
Images and text supplied by Tom Robinson
Tom Mahuta Robinson is a 25-year-old adventurer
and boatbuilder from Brisbane, Australia. In
2022, aged 23, Tom set off from Peru, in a boat
he designed and built, on his most ambitious
adventure yet - to become the youngest person
ever to row the Pacific Ocean.
For the next 14 months Tom experienced the
highs and lows of extreme adventure, facing many
challenges along the way. He spent a total of 265
days at sea in complete isolation, as well as many
months living in harmony with the inhabitants of the
remote islands he visited. The journey ended in a
dramatic rescue off Vanuatu - Tom survived to tell
the tale, break a world record as the youngest to
row the Pacific, and share his story with you...
10//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243
A hat and sunglasses were essential, except when the camera was running

Tom training on the Brisbane River
It was my fourth day at sea since departing Luganville, Vanuatu, on the last leg
of my journey across the Pacific. I was hoping to make landfall in Australia in
approximately 50 days. I was settling into what I knew would be a wet and bumpy
passage back home, with Vanuatu experiencing its windiest season in over five
years.
All day I had been rowing quite comfortably, Maiwar (The boat, ‘Maiwar’, named
after the Aboriginal name for the Brisbane River, is 24’ long (7.3m), 6’ wide (2m),
and weights over one ton when fully loaded) was making her way westward at a
good rate of knots and I had stayed basically dry while rowing with the 20 knot
south-easters on the beam.
At about 4:00pm local time I hung up the oars a little early and retired to the cabin
to do a bit of navigating and prepare for dinner. As usual, I had been in the nude
most of the day, as chafe is always an issue and, in those conditions, it only takes
a few days to run out of dry clothes. Once inside the cabin I contemplated closing
the hatch, but decided against it, as the conditions were relatively benign – (not a
single wave had come aboard all day), – a fateful error of judgment.
I was sitting on my bunk, looking out the hatch, and then, in a split second, my whole
world was turned upside down. My view turned from blue sky to blue water, a huge
crashing sound was heard, and Maiwar was capsized like a bath toy.
There was no time for fear or even a thought, it all happened so quickly. The next
moment I was holding my breath, I looked around me in complete shock, identified
the open hatch, swam through it and made my way under the boat, through the
afternoon-light pierced blue water and came up to the surface, gasping for breath
as I grabbed onto the gunwale of an upturned Maiwar.
My first thought was “Oh my God, it’s happened, the worst possible scenario has
just become my reality”. I scrambled onto the upturned hull and took stock of the
situation.
His boat, Maiwar, under construction.
Exploring the Penrhyn/Tongareva lagoon.
By this stage it was getting dark, and I knew
that of the two emergency position indication
beacons (EPIRBS) I had on board, at least one
would already be going off, due to a fault with the
mounting bracket, and there would be no way
to turn it off; whether I wanted help or not, my
distress signal was going out to the world, and
there was nothing I could do about it.
I then re-entered the water and grabbed a heavy
line, tied it to the rowlock on the starboard side
of the boat, and climbed back on top of Maiwar. I
then began to lean outboard with all my weight in
an attempt to right the boat.
The naked rower
"OH MY GOD, IT’S HAPPENED, THE
WORST POSSIBLE SCENARIO
HAS JUST BECOME MY REALITY"
12//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//13

" JUST AFTER DARK THE FULL
GRAVITY OF THE SITUATION
BEGAN TO SINK IN, DOUBT
STARTED TO CREEP IN, AND THE
THOUGHT OF MAKING IT OUT
ALIVE SEEMED VERY SLIM INDEED"
After a few tries I quickly realised that it was not
going to happen before darkness set in, as by
then it would be too dangerous to attempt anything
further.
I then tied the heavy sea-anchor line across the
boat with enough room for a loop around my waist.
In rapidly fading light I swam back under the boat
and removed one of the EPIRBS from its holster
and attached the lanyard to my wrist.
For the next 14 hours I clung to the bottom of the
boat, one hand gripping the keel, the other holding
onto the EPIRB. Sometimes it took all my strength
not to be washed off the boat by breaking waves.
Just after dark I began to realise the full gravity
of the situation, doubt started to creep in, and the
thought of making it out alive seemed very slim
indeed; it was not a good headspace to be in.
Before too long, I came to grips with my situation
and began to make plans. I decided to stay atop
Maiwar for the night, then, on daybreak, try once
again to right the boat, this time by moving stores
around and flooding certain sections of the hull. I
was quite confident I would be able to right the boat
and continue on. The morning would also bring the
chance to get to the food and water stored onboard.
But before any of this I had to survive the night.
I kept my chin up, and tried to make the most of
a less than ideal situation. The way I looked at it,
the worst possible thing that could have happened,
had happened, so things could only get better from
there on in.
I began to sing: S.O.S by ABBA played on
a continuous loop for a few hours while I
contemplated my situation. I began to feel
remarkably positive about the whole ordeal, and
couldn’t help but smile in the face of adversity. If
it was adventure I was looking for, I had certainly
found it!
As the night wore on, and on, and on, I came to
terms with the fact that it would probably be the
longest night of my life. I shuddered at the thought
of a seemingly endless night still ahead of me.
With all the hardship I was facing, the worst by far
was the cold. Not since rowing up the South American
coastline 14 months earlier, had I felt the need to
wear a jumper or wrap myself in a sleeping bag,
and there I was, stark naked and shivering through
the night. Of course, the best remedy for physical
discomfort is a strong mindset, and if there’s one thing
that a rogue wave couldn’t take away from me, it was
my strong mind and positive outlook.
14//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//15

Tom entering Penrhyn/Tongareva lagoon after 160 days at sea
Finishing touches
Tom anchored in Pago Pago Harbour, America Samoa; 11 months after departing Peru.
I thought warm thoughts, imagined a
bonfire on Maiwar’s bottom, and relished
the few times I was able to urinate on
myself. But mostly I kept my mind active to
distract my senses from the hardship that
surrounded me; really no different from
what I had been doing for the past year.
And then, before I knew it, a faint blue
appeared in the east. I couldn’t believe
it. Already, the night was over, and soon
enough, the sun would rise and warm my
body, the day would begin, and my lot
would improve. The longest night of my
life had been shorter than I had expected.
About an hour later, just as the sun
began to rise above the eastern
horizon, a black silhouette appeared
on the horizon. A Ship!. I cried out for
joy; safety was coming, and it was all
going to be alright. The giant Auckland
based cruise ship the Pacific Explorer,
responded to my call for help. The cruise
operator Carnival Australia diverted
the cruise liner north of its course from
New Caledonia to Vanuatu, and I was
rescued just before 7am.
Even after being rescued, the
strangeness of the whole situation has
not yet left me. The lens through which
I view the world is still slightly refracted,
but one thing has become very clear
indeed: It was all worth it, every last
minute, and to lament even a single
moment would be an equally fateful error.
Of the handful of people I have seen
since my return, they seem to meet me
with a melancholic smile, the corners of
their mouths turn down and their eyes
say sympathy very softly.
Sympathy! Sympathy? Sympathy be
damned! I made a mistake and I paid
the price. So what if the ending was not
how I expected?
When I departed Peru 14 months
ago perhaps it was not clear, even to
myself, why I was rowing across the
Pacific, but since then it has become
well and truly clear. It wasn’t about the
final destination; fame and glory can go
the way of sympathy. They can all be
damned.
I went out into the Pacific chasing
adventure, proper old-fashioned seatof-the-pants
adventure. I went out into
the Pacific to test myself, to challenge
myself, to come face to face with the
raw elements of man and nature; to
learn what I could endure, how strong I
was, how far mother nature could push
me – where the limit lay.
I went out into the Pacific to explore,
to taste a different way of life, to live
purposefully, traditionally and above all,
happily.
Success can be measured any way you
like, indeed it’s one of the true beauties
of life. Make it what you will, but above
all, take away from it what you will.
Before this journey of mine began I had
no idea just how adventurous it would
be, just how fulfilling, how beautiful, how
hard, how torturous and how exciting it
would all be.
Real adventure is not a thing of the past,
I discovered for myself that it’s still out
there, alive and well, the ripe fruit are
there for the picking.
So do not lament for what could have
been, for what went wrong and for what
was expected. Do not frown. Please,
rejoice with me.
If there is one thing I have heard over
and over again, it’s that those of you at
home have enjoyed living this adventure
vicariously through me, perhaps a rare
chance to follow me through the far
reaches of the earth and mind, where few
ever go. And now, I look back on what
has been, on every moment of despair
and joy, and everything in between, and
I cannot help but smile. I’m back home,
an immense weight has been lifted off
my shoulders, a weight I have carried for
many years, and I cannot help but rejoice.
Rejoice for what has been and for what is
yet to come in life.
In a short note I must, of course, thank
the thousands of people around the
world who have supported me
" BEFORE THIS
JOURNEY OF MINE
BEGAN I HAD NO
IDEA JUST HOW
ADVENTUROUS IT
WOULD BE, JUST
HOW FULFILLING,
HOW BEAUTIFUL,
HOW HARD, HOW
TORTUROUS AND
HOW EXCITING IT
WOULD ALL BE. "
on this journey. It is only through the
kindness, generosity and love of so
many individuals that my adventure was
successful.
I cannot thank enough my family who
supported me tirelessly from the very
beginning, and who had a bit of a scare
last week. .I would also like to apologise
to the passengers whose holiday was
interrupted by my situation.
To the Australian Maritime Safety
Authority, MRCC Noumea and all the staff
of P&O Pacific Explorer, without your help
I simply would not be writing this.
After returning for an expedition to
Papua New Guinea Tom Mahuta
Robinson is now back in Brisbane,
writing a book about his journey.
Follow Tom:
Instagram: tom_mahuta_robinson
Facebook: Tom Mahuta Robinson
Website: tomrobinsonboats.com
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SURVIVAL
Biblical Weather
on the Routeburn Track
Words and images by Gary Chesters
The changing faces of Lake Harris on the Routeburn Track
Even a little rain can make a big difference
In the wild expanse of Fiordland, where rain is
as common as sunshine, surviving a hike without
a downpour is akin to winning the lottery. With
over six meters of rainfall annually, and nearly
200 rainy days, staying dry is a rare luxury. Yet,
amidst the damp, there lies a silver lining—the
rain unveils breath-taking waterfalls unseen in
drier times.
But nature's whims can turn from blessing to
curse with very little warning. In January 2024,
relentless rains, exacerbated by global warming,
unleashed chaos across New Zealand's southern
reaches. Torrential downpours submerged the
land, triggering floods and creating landslides,
wreaking havoc on iconic trails like the Routeburn
and Milford Tracks.
18//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243
Among those caught in the maelstrom weather bomb were
Queenstown locals, Gary Chesters and his hiking companion, Dale
Le Maitre. What began as a gentle drizzle soon escalated into a
deluge of biblical proportions, prompting an urgent need for not just
a Plan B but a Plan C.
Gary's first-hand account, shared through social media, painted a
vivid picture of their journey; from carefree days by the clear blue
rivers to the heart-stopping reality of navigating nature's fury.
In the serenity of rivers and the security of marked trails, you might
find solace. Yet, when nature unleashes her wrath, even the most
serene landscapes become treacherous. We reached out to Gary,
eager to hear his tale first hand of survival amidst the ferocity of an
extreme weather event.
"GARY'S FIRST-HAND
ACCOUNT, SHARED THROUGH
SOCIAL MEDIA, PAINTED
A VIVID PICTURE OF THEIR
JOURNEY; FROM CAREFREE
DAYS BY THE CLEAR BLUE
RIVERS TO THE
HEART-STOPPING REALITY
OF NAVIGATING NATURE'S
FURY."
Gary taking a dip on the Routeburn track only weeks
before

GARY'S STORY
“In the middle of January, 2024 we started off
on the Routeburn and embraced the gentle
drizzle, “just another day in the mountains” I
thought. But things were about to change.
Our original plan was to hike up to the high
point and go off-trail camping to the Valley
of the Trolls, but with the weather less than
ideal we opted for option B, an overnight at
Routeburn Flats Campground, only an hour
and a half from the carpark at the start of the
Routeburn. But what we really needed was a
plan C – what to do in an emergency.
We could sense that the weather was going
to deteriorate so set up camp and braced
ourselves for a rough night, totally unaware
of the enormity of the situation ahead. At
around 2am the rain hit and we hunkered
down in our tents, but the rain was relentless
and heavy. In the dark it’s hard to know what
is happening outside but I have to admit that
thoughts of the river breaking its bank and
flooding our tent sight in the pitch black of
night did pass my mind and we got very little
sleep after that.
There was a certain relief when day broke,
but it did not stop the rain from falling.
Eventually it subsided and we assumed we
were through the worse of it so ventured
on a side trip up to the Routeburn Falls,
a couple of hours up. It didn’t take long
before the rain returned and once again it
poured, torrents of water cascaded down the
mountains transforming the serenity.
As we returned to the flats the mountains
seemed to reach saturation point and
everything just let go! There were waterfalls
popping up everywhere and the Routeburn
River changed in front of our eyes. One
minute it was a peaceful river, the next a
raging torrent with now angry brown dark
streaks gushing in its wake. The river
became its own creature.
At first we watched in awe, mesmerized
by the transformation, until a feeling of
seriousness overcame us. It was now rising
30cm every 15 minutes with no signs of
slowing down. It was at this point that I
glanced over at my tent to see it was now
underwater. The next minute the river broke
its bank and engulfed the flats campground.
Excitement, and maybe a splash of
adrenaline got the better of me. My plan
was to retreat to higher ground, batten down
the hatches and watch the show unfold.
However, after a quick back and forth with
my hiking buddy, the consensus was to pull
the pin and get out of there. In retrospect, a
more sensible move.
The track from Routeburn Flats back to the main entrance soon began to disappear
"AT FIRST WE WATCHED IN
AWE, MESMERIZED BY THE
TRANSFORMATION, UNTIL
A FEELING OF SERIOUSNESS
OVERCAME US. "
After talking with the park ranger we figured out a
turnaround section in case things got really bad, and set
off back to the carpark. It was here the chaos began.
Water was trying to breach everywhere, flowing with
brutal force across the hiking trails and access points.
At one point, knee-deep in what was now a fast flowing
river, boulders struck our feet and the reality of the
situation we were in hit us. We had just exited the
turnaround point when a huge log washed through
the area where we had stood moments before. A few
seconds earlier and it would have crushed us.
We pressed on and based on the park rangers
information, hoped that we were past the worse of it.
Adrenaline surged through me, I was excited, worried,
happy, scared, every feeling possible, all at once.
Finally we saw the bridge, the last point of crossing and
breathed a sigh of relief that the bridge was still intact.
With the amount of water flowing and the sheer force
of it we really didn’t feel safe until we crossed that last
bridge.
We later found out that over 300mm of rain had fallen in
a 48 hour period.
The mountains are truly an untamed beast; not
having the right equipment and knowledge in such
environments can be fatal, and sometimes is. These
tools and an experimental mindset are essential as
the weather can, and sometimes does, change for the
worst.”
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//21

FLASH FLOODS CLAIM MORE
LIVES EACH YEAR THAN ANY
OTHER EXTREME WEATHER
EVENT.
Trickling streams turned into waterfalls
SO WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP
SURVIVE.
1.PLAN AHEAD:
STAY UP-TO-DATE WITH NATIONAL
WEATHER FORECASTS AND IF THE
RISK OF FLASH FLOODING IS HIGH,
POSTPONE YOUR TRIP.
2.KNOW YOUR ROUTE:
UNDERSTANDING THE ELEVATION
AND TOPOGRAPHY OF YOUR
DESTINATION IS VITAL. KNOW THE
HIGH GROUNDS AND ALSO BE
AWARE OF FLOOD PRONE AREAS.
3.PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR
SURROUNDINGS: STAY VIGILANT AND
EVACUATE IMMEDIATELY IF YOU
NOTICE A DRY RIVERBED FILLING
WITH WATER OR IF STREAMS AND
RIVERS TURN MUDDY OR CLOUDY.
Walking the "track" moments before a large boulder came through right where we had once been
Below: Routeburn Falls in full flow
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS WITH GARY
Things obviously got scary there for
a while, how did you cope having to
make serious decisions? There are a
few points where I stopped to come back
to myself, 3 deep breaths, grounded
myself before making a decision. I think
that’s quite important as sometimes, we
just make decisions without really coming
back to ourselves mindfully. So, rather
than reacting, acting from that place of
more calmed state of mind.
What’s some lessons you have learnt
in life that have helped you in this
situation? Whilst learning myself to
become a dive instructor and rescue dive
instructor I learnt how to imagine a series
of the worst case scenarios happening.
The secret is to not to dwell on them as
they can manifest, but if you prepare
yourself mentally if the worst does happen
you're already prepared. Then, rather
than reacting with fear, you can react from
a more grounded position.
What do you think was the best
decision you made? To stay calm -
acting not reacting. In regard to the actual
decision, it was a team-made decision
to go. I believe it was the right one in the
end.
What, if any, was the worse decision
you made? Crossing the last river -
where the log nearly hit us. In the end, it
was the right move on both counts but it
could have been very different. In such
times, having a calm head makes all the
difference and that comes with experience
and time.
What advice would post-trip Gary give
pre-trip Gary? Nothing really. I feel I
had all the right kit and the experience.
(maybe pack more food).
How has this trip affected any future
trips or planning? The weather changes
even surprised me, I think always hope
for the best, but plan for the worst. And
remind myself, regardless, that indeed -
things can change, and do sometimes.
The downside to experience is if not
checked, the experienced hiker/trekker
can become complacent.
Any other tips? It’s great practice to take
some form of emergency beacon/ SOS
device in case things get really dicey, so
you can contact emergency services. And
it’s always great to hike with a buddy and
a lot safer.
Having the right equipment is essential.
An old mountain guide told me to always
pack a headlamp and rain jacket,
regardless of the weather. That way, if
you’re by yourself and you fall or get
stranded, you can see, and other people
can see you. You can also stay dry and, to
a degree, warm when layered. They don’t
weigh a lot, and they could save your life.
22//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243

SURVIVAL
Free solo.
Calculated risk
or a tragedy
waiting to happen?
Words and images by Derek Cheng
The monitor-sized block that almost swept me from
the ridge of the Evolution Travers in the Sierra Nevada,
California.
The handhold that broke and nearly ejected me
towards oblivion on the southern flanks of Mount
Robson, Canada.
The panic that engulfed my friend who, climbing
ropeless in the Wyoming’s Cirque of the Towers, had
to compose herself to avoid being swallowed up by the
gaping, exposed nothingness reaching for her ankles.
The giant rock block that I dislodged but managed
to catch on my knees, which would have otherwise
eviscerated the four climbers below me in Canada’s
Bugaboo mountains.
There’s been a lot of debate about the rights and
wrongs of free soloing, especially in light of the
publicity of Alex Honnold’s scarcely believable free solo
of El Cap in Yosemite.
Discussions among climbers traverse whether it should
be done at all, given the obvious risks, and if so, how.
This isn’t a treatise imploring you to go out and try it,
but rather an exploration of the rationale.
Keenan Waeschle at dawn on top of
one of the nine peaks that make up the
Evolution Traverse
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//25

Much of the public perception is
misguided, casting free soloists as
adrenaline junkies who test themselves
in the most extreme way possible. This,
in my experience, has no basis in truth.
You don’t simply take a fancy to a line
and decide to jump on it without much
thought.
Most free solos are likely to be
on grades where a fall—and any
adrenaline—is highly improbable, or on
routes you’ve climbed so many times
that you’re on auto-pilot. Even Honnold
spent two years climbing Freerider
(5.13a/28) with a rope before he
committed to trying it ropeless.
And while there is definitely a rush,
it’s nothing like the pulsing feeling
of throwing for a 50/50 move when
you’re under lactic acid attack and your
forearms are bulging out of your skull.
If you’re doing that and ropeless, then
you’re truly mad.
Instead it’s the most potent climbing
flow, a total immersion in a zone that
so enriches every pore and heightens
every sense. The unique circumstances
command your attention. You have
no option but to master your fear and
deal with anything that may or may not
happen, from negotiating brittle rock to
strenuous moves above a potentially
lethal fall.
Mastery in such a high stakes game
can deliver a feeling akin to the
transcendental.
But, for me, this was the light at the
end of a very long tunnel. For years I
viewed free soloing, like most climbers,
as simply too risky to even consider.
Then one afternoon in the Pines—the
campsite in the climbing haven of
Arapiles, Australia —I was party to a
conversation with far more experienced
climbers about the virtues of simulclimbing.
“You are basically soloing but in a safer
way and with a bunch more gear,” one
older, grislier climber was saying. “And
it can be an essential skill if you’re in
an alpine environment and trying to
minimise the time exposed to objective
hazards. In the mountains, with potential
avalanche terrain or incoming storms,
speed is often safety.”
Arapiles, with its abundance of easy
multi-pitch climbs, was the perfect place
to try simul-climbing.
This happens when two climbers are tied
into a rope, but instead of one person
belaying as the other climbs and places
climbing protection to guard against a
fall, they both move up at the same time.
A fall from either climber will likely pull
the other one off the wall, but as long as
there are at least two pieces of protection
between the climbers (in case one of
them fails), the falls shouldn’t be fatal.
It all depends, of course, on where you
place the protection and how far the
leader might be above the last piece.
But in general, if done well, it’s safer
than soloing but still much speedier than
when the leader climbs and their partner
belays.
A buddy and I spent that afternoon
simul-climbing, knocking off five multipitch
trad routes in a few hours. It was
exhilarating to move so quickly across
so much rock.
Comfort levels commonly expand as
a challenging activity becomes more
familiar. Several more simul-climbing
days on grades no harder than 12
peppered my Arapiles season, and the
more familiar I became, the more my
gear placements tended to become 10
metres apart, rather than every third
metre.
Still, the thought of climbing ropeless
was terrifying and, when a bunch of
friends gang-soloed up Tiptoe Ridge (5),
I stayed behind.
Simul-climbing, however, became an
essential tool in the alpine toolbox.
One of the first occasions was in the
Cirque of the Towers. An early start saw
me and my friend at the base of the
350m-high northeast face (5.8, 15) of
Pingora, one of the 50 Classic Climbs of
North America, with a double rack and a
50m-half rope. One simul-pitch later, we
were on the summit.
The neighbouring peak, Wolf’s Head,
also has one of the 50 classics, and we
rappelled over to it and solo scrambled
up the fourth class terrain at the base
of the East Ridge (5.5/12). When it
steepened, we tied in and simul-climbed
to the top.
"MUCH OF
THE PUBLIC
PERCEPTION
IS MISGUIDED,
CASTING FREE
SOLOISTS AS
ADRENALINE
JUNKIES WHO
TEST THEMSELVES
IN THE MOST
EXTREME WAY
POSSIBLE."
Mitch Woodward soloing Agamemnon, the classic grade 11 climb at Arapiles, Australia
26//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243

The truth is that you’ve probably done
some free soloing if you’ve ever done
any alpine routes. It is rare to rope up for
any and all mountain terrain. Some will
be comfortably ropeless while crossing
glaciers on well-trodden boot tracks, or
scrambling up non-technical approaches,
or climbing more technical rock.
I was still very cautious the first time I
ended up soloing technical terrain. It was a
300m-long corner system called Joy (5.6,
13) on Mt Indefatigable in the Canadian
Rockies. We intended to climb it as a party
of three, but I decided to start soloing up to
take photos of my friends from above.
I wore a harness with a half-rack of cams
so I could build an anchor, sit on gear
and wait for a rope if I was in any way
uncomfortable. But I didn’t end up needing
them.
When I topped out, I was acutely aware
of the awesome tremendousness of the
experience.
I slowly branched out. The trade route
on Sir Donald, a gorgeous 5.4/12 line up
the northwest ridge, takes a whole day if
pitched out, but is a casual few hours as a
solo. And a fine one it is, with mostly easy
scrambling and huge holds wherever the
terrain steepens.
A bluebird day accompanied me from
Irene’s Arete (5.8/16) up Disappointment
Peak, in Grand Teton National Park, to
Exum Ridge (5.7/15) on the majestic
Grand Teton.
The Sierra Nevada has so many peaks
that there is literally no limit to potential
link-ups. One of the most popular is
combining the southeast buttress of
Cathedral Peak (5.6/14) with Matthes
Crest (5.7/15), a nearby mile-long fin of the
most exquisite granite.
Soloing eventually became an integral part
of trying alpine traverses or grand link-ups,
one of the most memorable being a fourpeak
day in the Canadian Bugaboos. It
started with simul-climbing most of McTech
Arete (5.10a/18) to the top of Crescent
Spire, simul-climbing the first three pitches
and then soloing the rest of the northeast
ridge of Bugaboo Spire (5.8/16), soloing
the west ridge of Pigeon Spire (5.4/12),
and then pitching out the harder sections
of the ultra-classic Beckey-Chouinard
(5.10d/20) on the South Howser Tower.
It was on this latter peak that I dislodged a
huge block with my hand, but managed to
catch on my knees before gently dropping
it on a ledge. It would have flattened one
or all of the four climbers below me. The
immenseness of the narrowly-avoided
consequences was written all over the
open-mouthed, eye-bulging face of the
climber next to me as he belayed his
leader above. A quick reminder of how
easily things can go wrong.
Similarly tragic consequences were
narrowly avoided during our traverse of
The Cirque of the Towers, in Wyoming,
which ticks 12 summits. My diminutive
friend Cat didn’t have the wingspan to
comfortably reach a good handhold
above a gaping abyss of nothingness.
She started to panic, couldn’t reverse the
move, and I quickly moved towards her
intending to offer her my outstretched
hand. Just as I could reach her, she
committed to the move and avoided what
would have been a deadly fall.
And on the Evolution Traverse, a spine of
granite crossing nine peaks (5.9/17) and
with more than 3000m of elevation gain
and loss, I narrowly dodged the firing line
several times as my movement wobbled
titanic boulders.
Once my weighty heft broke off a foot
nubbin, throwing me gracelessly onto a
ledge. Luckily it was only a metre below
me, and a mildly sore bottom was the only
consequence.
Towards the latter peaks, I leapt from one
rock and landed on a lichenous boulder
that instantly dismissed my footing, forcing
me to throw down my upper body in a
desperate bid for purchase. Each time I
emerged with nothing more than a scratch.
Pause, breathe. Reset, continue.
The final two peaks offered the best
climbing: excellent rock, steep climbing on
solid holds, and a jubilant anticipation that
grew with each step.
I spent the following days eating burgers,
soaking in hot pools, and contemplating
the pros and cons of free soloing. Every
discipline of climbing has an element of risk,
and every climber makes an assessment
based on experience, temperament of the
day, objective hazard of the route, etc. One
climber’s epic free solo is another’s casual
outing in approach shoes.
"TOO RECKLESS?
THAT DEPENDS
ON ALL THE
ELEMENTS IN
THE EQUATION,
AND ONE OF
THE BIGGEST
ELEMENTS IS
‘YOU’. ANOTHER
IS RANDOM,
INDISCRIMINATE
LUCK."
The Evolution Traverse, a spine of granite crossing nine peaks (5.9/17) and with more than 3000m of elevation gain and loss, where I narrowly
dodged the firing line several times as my movement wobbled titanic boulders.
Many climbers choose their routes because of the risk
factor. That is, they are aware of what lies ahead and
willingly embrace it.
Sometimes catastrophe strikes. I’ve narrowly avoided
one of my own when I was hit by rockfall that broke
several bones in my face, neck and back. Just last
month a friend - a highly skilled and experienced
climber - fell to his death while soloing one of the
smaller granite walls above Yosemite in California.
Does that make it reckless? Probably. Undoubtedly more reckless
than sitting at home watching TV. But if we never did any activity
that might end in injury, we would never do anything.
Too reckless? That depends on all the elements in the equation,
and one of the biggest elements is ‘you’.
Another is random, indiscriminate luck. You could be the most
prepared person in the history of the world and be swallowed in a
freak rockfall, or the world’s most careless gumby and come home
completely unscathed.
28//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//29

SURVIVAL
the fatal
pursuit of
social media
stardom
"FROM DAREDEVIL
STUNTS TO
DANGEROUS
CHALLENGES, THE
QUEST FOR
ONLINE
VALIDATION
HAS CLAIMED
NUMEROUS
LIVES."
In the age of social media, the quest for attention and validation and click bait
income has led individuals to increasingly extreme activities in the pursuit of viral
fame. The allure of likes, shares, and comments has driven some to engage in
dangerous stunts and challenges, resulting in tragic consequences. The morbid
question that looms over this trend is, how many people have lost their lives in
the relentless pursuit of the perfect social media post?
The statistics surrounding fatalities linked to extreme activities for social media
content are alarming. From daredevil stunts to dangerous challenges, the quest
for online validation has claimed numerous lives. Despite the evident risks, the
temptation to go to more extraordinary lengths for that perfect shot or video has
proven fatal for too many.
One of the primary culprits behind these tragedies is the constant pressure to
outdo previous feats and create content that stands out in an oversaturated
online landscape. Social media platforms, while providing a platform for selfexpression,
can also inadvertently fuel a culture of one-upmanship, pushing
individuals to push safety boundaries for the sake of engagement.
Whether it’s cliff diving, hugging a lion, or participating in a cliff edge selfie. The
desire for a moment of internet fame blinds them to the potential life-threatening
outcomes.
This trend has prompted discussions on the ethical responsibilities of both
content creators and platforms. Social media influencers face scrutiny for their
role in glamorising risky behaviour without adequately emphasising the potential
dangers.
A simple warning on a video of someone plummeting to their deaths is not is
discouragement but more of an appetiser.
The toll of lives lost in pursuing social media stardom is an unfortunate reality.
How you curtail this trend without impeding personal freedom, it is right to
say ‘Well its their choice’ and it is, however, the impact of one-upmanship, in
particularly with youth, (and those dealing with youth know the impact of social
media) should there not be a more concentrated effort to limit the impact from the
platforms where they post, or is that threatening free speech?
WOULD BE GOOD TO
HAVE SOME NUMBERS
HERE OR SOME OTHER
STATISTICS SUCH AS
GRAND CANYON SELFIE
DEATHS AND OTHER
STUFF
WU YONGNIN
Wu Yongning went out to do what he loved
best - scale a skyscraper without safety
equipment and film himself dangling off its
roof by his fingertips.
What happened next almost seems
inevitable - the Chinese climber fell,
plunging 62 storeys to his death.
Beijing News investigation found that
Mr Wu had posted more than 500 short
videos and livestreams on Huoshan,
garnering a million fans and earning at
least 550,000 yuan ($126,000).
Huoshan had prominently promoted his
videos as recently as June. The last being
a shocking clip of what appeared to be his
final moments, his fatal attempt to scale a
building in Changsha city.
LUCKY ESCAPE
A woman was mauled by a
jaguar in Arizona after entering
a zoo enclosure to take a selfie.
She luckily received
non-life-threatening injuries.
30//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//31

SOFIA CHEUNG
32-year-old influencer Sofia
Cheung died after slipping and
falling 5 meters in the Ha Pak Lai
nature park, while she was taking
a selfie with friends at the edge of
a waterfall. Her Instagram account
featured photos of her outdoor
adventures, including scaling cliffs
and mountaintops.
32-year-old influencer Sofia
Cheung died after slipping and
falling 5 meters in the Ha Pak Lai
nature park, while she was taking
a selfie with friends at the edge of
a waterfall. Her Instagram account
featured photos of her outdoor
adventures, including scaling cliffs
and mountaintops.
A 46-year-old Chinese tourist died
after falling into the sea while taking a
selfie on a cliff at Devil's Tears on Nusa
Lembongan, off the coast of Bali.
Six members of the same family drowned at
Ramdaha Falls in Chhattisgarh. Two teenage
sisters attempted to take a selfie but slipped
into the water. Four other relatives tried to
save them but they all drowned
PATRICK WARD
A New Zealand tourist fell to his death from a
moving train on the World War II “death railway” in
Kanchanaburi province in western Thailand.
Patrick Ward, 45, had come with a group led by
a tour guide from River Kwai bridge and rode
the train yesterday to see the death railway, also
known as the Thai-Burma Railway.
Ward opened a door of the train and tried to take
a selfie to show the view outside but he slipped
on the steps at the door and fell to his death.
The tour guides had warned travellers not to lean
out of the carriages, which have open spaces
where they connect. Doors can also be opened
for passengers to sit on the steps and they can
also lean from the windows.
REMI LUCIDI
French daredevil Remi Lucidi died after
falling from the 68th floor of a Hong Kong
skyscraper, according to reports.
The 30-year-old, known as “Remi
Enigma” on Instagram, lost his footing
outside a penthouse apartment at the
721-foot-tall Tregunter Tower,
After gaining access to the high-rise by
telling a security guard that he was there
to visit a friend on the 40th floor, Lucidi
made his way to the top floor, according
to Sky News.
Lucidi was seen on surveillance camera
exiting the elevator on the 49th floor and
again on the staircase to the top floor,
where a door had been forced open.
32//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//33

SURVIVAL
Organic evolution
the essence of
business Survival
Adventure Magazine and Media has been involved with Nick
Montague -Brown and Outdoor Action for over 20 years. In a world
where adventure retailers are being gobbled up by consumer giants
and evaporating like early morning dew under the withering heat
of corporation expansion. Outdoor Action not only survived but has
developed and expanded. Now twenty years down the adventure retail
road this is their story:
Where did it all start? Purchasing
Outdoor Action wasn’t exactly an
impulsive decision. At the time, we
were residing overseas in Brazil, deeply
engrossed in the preparations for our
wedding, seeking a fresh challenge. Our
search for new opportunities led us to
explore various business listings online.
That's when we stumbled upon Outdoor
Action. With a lifelong passion for the
outdoors and a history of adventurous
pursuits, this opportunity struck a chord. It
presented a seamless blend of business
and pleasure.
What was it like in the beginning?
They were intense and long, starting our
days at 6:00 am and often not finishing
until midnight or later, seven days a
week. This routine continued for almost
the first year. We were deeply immersed
in understanding the local New Zealand
outdoor industry and building relationships
with customers and suppliers. There
were mistakes, or as I prefer to call them,
'learning curves'. But with each challenge,
we grew more knowledgeable and
adaptable, a process that still continues.
After being in the adventure retail
business for over 20 years what are the
key elements to business survival?
Celebrating 20 years in the adventure
retail sector, Outdoor Action's
longevity is rooted in unwavering
customer satisfaction, honesty, and
trust. Communication is key, ensuring
transparency with customers, suppliers,
and partners alike. Our ability to make
tough decisions and build a dedicated
team underpins our success. These
core principles have guided us through
two decades and promise a future of
continued adventure and exploration.
Was there trepidation at losing the
retail store and going online only?
Certainly, transitioning to an online-only
model was a risk, as with any major
business decision. In business, there
are no guarantees; success requires
hard work, passion, and dedication, and
sometimes even those aren't enough.
We had our concerns, but our belief in
ourselves and the positive feedback from
both new and long-standing customers,
who assured us they would continue their
support, gave us the confidence to move
forward.
"IN BUSINESS, THERE
ARE NO GUARANTEES;
SUCCESS REQUIRES
HARD WORK, PASSION,
AND DEDICATION, AND
SOMETIMES EVEN THOSE
AREN'T ENOUGH."
With the transition from bricks and
mortar what is the key to the survival
of an online store? As we've embraced
a fully online presence, it's important
to note that we're not newcomers to
the digital space. Our journey online
has been concurrent with our physical
store operations, providing us with a
wealth of experience and insights that
have been invaluable in our transition.
This longstanding familiarity with the
online world has been a key factor in
understanding what it takes to succeed
digitally.
A user-friendly and easily discoverable
online store is essential, supported by
our efforts in organic search and targeted
advertising. This ensures a frictionless
shopping experience from discovery to
purchase.
Our commitment to delivering on our
promises has always been a bedrock of
our reputation, addressing any issues
quickly to ensure customer satisfaction.
Moreover, balancing competitive pricing
with the sustainability of our business is
crucial. We strive for a pricing strategy
that's both smart and fair, enabling
customers to make informed decisions
with confidence.
In essence, our enduring online presence
has not just been about survival; it's been
about leveraging our experience to build
trusted relationships and guide our store
towards sustained success in the digital
marketplace.
Transition from brick and mortar to
fully online what was the biggest
mistake you made? Transitioning
from brick-and-mortar to a fully online
model didn't come with what I'd call
mistakes, thanks to extensive planning
and research. There were challenges,
of course, but they were all within our
realm of expectation. We were wellprepared
for the financial demands of
running an effective online adventure
store, understanding that it would surpass
the costs of operating a physical store in
complexity and scale.
Perhaps the most unexpected aspect
was the need to retrain our team. Many
had joined us with retail environments in
mind and found themselves navigating
a significantly different landscape
in an office setting. This shift led to
some turnover as we moved towards
assembling a team dedicated entirely to
ecommerce. It was a transition that, while
challenging, ultimately shaped the robust
and specialized team we have today.
The journey taught us that success online
isn't just about cutting costs; it's about
strategic investment in the right areas—
digital marketing, logistics, and team
development. These investments have
been essential in refining our approach,
allowing us to better serve our adventureseeking
customers and thrive in the digital
marketplace.
Transition from brick and mortar to
fully online what was the biggest
positive surprise you found?
In navigating our transition from brickand-mortar
to a fully online platform, I
wouldn't say I encountered surprises
in the traditional sense. This was
largely because we embarked on this
journey with thorough research and
meticulous analysis. We didn't leave
room for surprises; instead, we came
in fully prepared, armed with insights
and strategies to ensure a seamless
shift. Our philosophy has always been
to strive for perfection but plan for the
worst. This approach empowered us to
anticipate challenges and devise solutions
proactively, turning potential hurdles into
opportunities for growth and innovation.
The smoothness of this transition
reaffirmed the value of preparation and
strategic foresight in business, highlighting
the strength of our team and the
robustness of our planning processes.
"OUR PHILOSOPHY HAS
ALWAYS BEEN
STRIVE FOR PERFECTION
BUT PLAN FOR THE
WORSE."
Specific brands survive and some
do not in your opinion are their
specific basics that a brand needs
for longevity? In my view, the bedrock
of a brand's longevity is unequivocally
quality. There's a saying by Henry Royce,
the British engineer, which encapsulates
this belief perfectly: "The quality will
remain when the price is forgotten." This
philosophy is something we hold dear at
Outdoor Action. We live by the rule that
if we wouldn't use a product ourselves,
we won't sell it. This commitment to
quality has guided our selection of brands
over the years. We've carried a wide
range of brands, but we've been quick
to cut ties with those that resulted in an
excessive number of warranty claims and
quality issues. It's a clear indicator to us
that quality isn't their priority. From our
experience, brands that fail to prioritize
quality, to put it simply, don't make the cut
in the long run. Ensuring the products we
offer embody quality not only aligns with
our values but also builds trust and loyalty
among our customers, cementing our
place and the brands we support in the
market for the long haul.
Why start bringing in your own
brands? Our goal was clear: to offer
high-quality products at competitive prices
to Kiwi adventurers. Introducing our
own brands became a strategic move to
achieve this objective. It allowed us to go
the extra mile for our customers, ensuring
the perfect balance between quality and
value. By having more control over our
product offerings, we could provide a
tailored experience that met the needs of
our outdoor enthusiasts.
Mountain Equipment stands out with
its 65-year heritage. Although it had
been in New Zealand for some time, its
representation had faltered in the years
before we took over, with a mismatch in
product offerings. We saw the potential to
realign and reintroduce these high-quality
brands to Kiwi adventurers in a more
relevant and effective way.
What advice would today Nick Montague-
Brown give Nick who was just starting
off twenty years ago? Firstly, embrace
patience. Building Outdoor Action is going
to be a long journey filled with both triumphs
and setbacks. Each challenge is a lesson in
disguise, shaping you into the leader you'll
become.
Be adaptable. The landscape of our
industry will change faster than you can
imagine. Your ability to pivot and embrace
new ideas will be crucial to staying relevant
and successful.
Invest in relationships. The connections you
make with customers, suppliers, and your
team are the backbone of this business.
Trust and respect in these relationships will
carry you through the tough times.
Don't forget about your team. They're your
greatest asset. Hire people who share your
passion and vision, then trust them to bring
those to life. Their growth is your business's
growth.
Lastly, hold onto your passion for adventure
and the outdoors. It's why you started this
journey. That genuine love is what makes
Outdoor Action resonate with so many
people.
To the younger me, know that this
adventure is as much about your personal
growth as it is about the business. Keep
these pieces of advice close and enjoy the
journey ahead.
34//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//35

SURVIVAL
failure in the
name of safety
Words and Images by Guy Cotter
Back in 2018 we ran a story written by then CEO of
Adventure Consultants, Guy Cotter. This is possibly one of
the most relevant pieces of writing and advice from one of
New Zealand's most successful and competent adventures,
as relevant today as it was when he wrote it...
If you’re going to be a
mountaineer you’ve got to
make peace with the fact that
you are going to be a failure,
repeatedly. Over the course
of your climbing career you
will attempt climbs you won’t
get up because you’re (pick
one or more) too scared, too
weak, too slow, too fast, too
early, too late, too tired, too
hungry, can’t see, chose the
wrong partner, wrong clothes,
you’re hungover, forgot the
crucial equipment, brought too
much equipment, brought too
little equipment, toilet paper
got wet, weather was too/hot/
cold/wet/dry/windy, chose the
wrong day/season/time of life
and so on.
In fact, the list of excuses
for your upcoming string of
failures is almost endless
and over the course of your
climbing career you use the
entire spectrum of defences
to explain how useless you
really are.
But we all know that in
climbing these failures are
justified, right? After all, the
argument goes, we do have
to fail at times in the name
of safety. There is certainly
no argument about that. We
must be prepared to change
our plans or back off a climb
when the level of risk is too
high. There are simply times
when there is no doubt about
the level of risk we are facing
that makes retreat imperative,
such as, a storm that drops
lots of snow and creates an
avalanche hazard that you
can’t sit out until it stabilises,
and you simply have to leave.
But there are the other times
when you’re just having a bad
day, or you decide you hate
your climbing partner and just
cannot spend another moment
with them or you have some
other doleful reason to fail.
Now you may not feel like
returning to the pub/hut/basecamp
and admit you backed off
because you are so lame and
that’s when you pull out the
safety card. No one is going to
criticise you for that because
safety is paramount, and you
can sometimes even convince
yourself that your pitiful lack of
willpower was actually justified
for safety reasons.
But, there are times when
being a lame useless
paranoid failure is exactly the
right call even though you
can’t properly explain your
rationale. I’ve had many an
experience (while failing)
when I’ve not been able to
articulate my reasoning and
that `things just didn’t seem
quite right. And yes, I have
used a fair portion of the
aforementioned excuses to
justify my fallibilities.
In fact, I’ve failed so often that
I’ve got myself to a stage in
life where I don’t mind failing.
If there is a route that is too
hard for me and I’m simply
not good enough to climb it
then I’m good with that. I’m so
good at failing that my sense
of self-worth is not destroyed
by the thought of other people
criticising me when I do fail.
Now I can even apply this
apathetic approach to the
rest of my life and while
I’m surrounded by type A
personalities who are still
stuck in the ‘80’s using jargon
like ‘goal setting’ I’m blissfully
living life without concern that I
might be exposed as a failure
because in reality I’m really
accomplished at it!
This revelation has been
spawned through events
that occurred to me in the
course of my climbing career.
I recall once when I was an
aspirant guide I turned back
on an ascent of Mt Cook
while other guides were still
continuing onwards, and they
successfully summited. While
they were comfortable, I was
completely uncomfortable
with the conditions, in my
view it was too warm, and I
couldn’t say to myself that if
I continued with the ascent,
that I was making the right
decision with the information
I had at hand. My poor client
was devastated and quite
rightfully made a complaint to
the guide company and at the
time I felt terrible about the
whole thing.
Just three years ago (now
8 years) a similar event
occurred on Mt Manaslu in
the Himalayas. A storm laid
down a heap of snow and the
forecast was indicating an
oncoming frontal system that
would hit us after only three
clear days. This didn’t give
us enough time to give the
snow slopes leading to high
camp time to settle before we
would be forced to have our
Sherpa team climb the slope
to stock the camp in time for
us to follow the next day and
summit the day after.
A golden rule of snow
safety tells us that 90% of
avalanches occur during or
the day after a storm. My
experience in the Himalaya
has shown me numerous
times that the most dangerous
time is the day following a
storm when the sun has been
on the slope only a short time.
36//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243

Making a decision whether to summit Manalsu straight after a storm can be a tricky one.
"THIS WAS A SLOPE
THAT WAS KNOWN TO
AVALANCHE, IT SLID IN 2012
AND 11 PEOPLE DIED, THE
LIKELIHOOD OF AN
AVALANCHE WAS HIGHEST
THE FIRST DAY
AFTER THE STORM.
IT WOULDN’T BE TOO MUCH
OF A PUSH TO SUGGEST
THAT THE FACT NO-ONE
DID DIE WAS MORE LUCK
THAN SKILL (AND AGAIN, I
WAS TRULY THANKFUL FOR
THEIR LUCK)."
There were a large number
of groups on Manalsu that
season and there was a lot of
pressure to get to high camp to
summit before the next storm
that was forecast to arrive
in a few days, which would
shut the season down due
to extremely high winds. As
leader of that expedition I had
a choice; I could break my own
rules and send the Sherpas
up that slope the day after
the storm, or I could make a
safety conscious choice, even
if I wouldn’t be too popular for
making it.
We knew that other teams
would be on that slope next
day and there was a chance
nothing would go wrong, and
that people would get up that
slope safely and then go on
to summit. I told my team
that I was going to look either
like a sage in their eyes next
day if people got avalanched
on that slope, or an overly
conservative failure if nothing
occurred. Well, as it turned out,
it was the latter. No avalanche
took out the climbers on that
slope and no-one died. I was
very thankful for that outcome.
But, and here is the guts of
it, this was a slope that was
known to avalanche (it slid in
2012 and 11 people died) and
the likelihood of an avalanche
was highest the first day after
the storm. It wouldn’t be too
much of a push to suggest
that the fact no-one did die
was more luck than skill (and
again, I was truly thankful for
their luck).
However, the question in my
mind was whether people were
still climbing this slope due to a
fear of making a conservative
call, or because they had no
idea of what they were doing,
or because they had more
information about the state
of that slope at the time and
therefore knew more about it
than I did?
(I’m certainly happy to admit
failure and learn something)
I will never know the exact
answer to that question and I
suspect there were numerous
differing reasons behind their
decisions.
Fast forward a couple of years
and we are on Dhaulagiri
making our summit attempt.
The forecasts were projecting
winds and snow, but our
physical observations gave us
no confidence in the forecasts,
so we climbed to high camp in
good weather. Our following
summit day was flawless,
resulting in our entire climbing
team reaching the summit.
Elation at making the summit of Dhaulagiri
38//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243

"SUCCESS IS THE
OUTCOME I ALWAYS
AIM FOR BUT WHEN THE
STARS ARE NOT ALIGNED,
AND THE SIGNS ARE
CLEARLY INDICATING
ONE SHOULD BE
OPERATING ON THE
RIGHT SIDE OF CAUTION
IT’S A NO-BRAINER"
A heap of snow and a frontal system, what would you do?
The comparison in outcome
between these two
expeditions was palpable. As
climbers we have to always
be prepared to make safe
calls. The irony is that if we
always make calls that are
too conservative, we’ll never
get up anything. I know
climbers who always pull the
safety card and have never
succeeded on anything.
Sadly, I’ve also known plenty
who perished because
`conservative’ wasn’t in their
vocabulary.
The art is when to know to be
conservative and when not to.
There is no exact answer to
this, accidents do just happen
in the mountain environment,
but as a minimum we should
at least be observing the
rudimentary and very basic
rules around safety. There
is an issue when people
ignore or don’t know those
rules around safety. Doing it
once and getting away with
it shouldn’t’ make you think
you made the right call. Do
it repeatedly and you will
certainly get spanked.
There is no better measure
for assessing hazard than
your own observations
and a developing healthy
respect for history. Carefully
observing what is occurring
around you at all times will
reveal clues as to what is
changing in a positive or
negative way. Changes in
temperature, sunshine and
clouds, wind direction and
strength, precipitation, snow
texture and loading as well
as heuristic factors, will all
have an effect on the potential
outcome of decisions you
make and you will be better
equipped to make judgement
calls if you stay tuned in to
these phenomena. There
are often clues as to what
hazards you are exposed to
if you observe closely what is
going on around you. Always
have an opinion about what
will happen next and reflect
afterwards whether your call
was correct or not.
The historical data you want
to know is whether there
have been incidents on
this slope/face/mountain/
similar situation, as the most
ignominious failure is to repeat
an event that has occurred
previously and could have
been avoided had you used
that history to structure your
own campaign. Recent history
is important too, keep track
of what layers have been
laid down in the snowpack
through snowfall, humidity
and wind events while you are
there and try to find out what
happened before you arrived.
Failure is a relative term.
In this age of expeditioning
there are people that have
climbed several of the world’s
highest mountains who have
succeeded on every climb
they have undertaken due to
them training appropriately
and the efforts of experienced
expedition operators to
ensure their groups are
successful. This trend has the
potential to develop a cadre
of mountaineers who do not
know failure and therefore
may not be able to appreciate
the need for it at times.
I always respect the effort
and outlay for someone to
be on a big mountain and I
am fully aware that failure is
painful and depressing after
committing so much. Success
is fantastic and should always
be the end goal. It is the
outcome I always aim for
but when the stars are not
aligned, and the signs are
clearly indicating one should
be operating on the right side
of caution it’s a no-brainer –
the crux of it is that you have
to know what those signs are
to be able to make those calls.
40//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243

SURVIVAL
surviving
the
olympics
Words and images by Steve Dickinson
Adventure Magazine has a long
relationship with the legendary surf
break in Tahiti, called Teahupoo,
going back over 20 years. The
choice of Teahupoo as the venue for
the Paris Games surfing event has
sparked debate about the venue's
appropriateness and athlete safety.
With its reputation as one of the world's
most ‘challenging’ waves, Teahupoo
presents unique challenges for both
organisers and competitors.
Teahupoo has been part of surfing
history. This Tahitian reef pass is etched
in every surfer's mind from Laird’s
Hamilton’s “Millennium Wave,” to the
“Code Red” madness in 2011, Surfers
have died here, and many more have
been injured; on a big day with the
right conditions it is one of the planet’s
most amazing surfing spectacles. And
all this happening in a tiny, incredibly
picturesque village, surrounded by
mountain at the end of the road on
Tahiti Iti.
When considering Teahupoo suitability,
it's essential to understand the breaks
unpredictable conditions. The chances
of encountering ideal surf conditions
during a predetermined four day
waiting period are slim, even in the
peak season. Unlike more versatile
surf spots like Huntington Beach even
Sunset Beach, Teahupoo demands
specific criteria to be considered
suitable – minimum 10-to-15-foot wave
faces, light off-shore winds. Anything
less than perfection won't meet
Teahupoo standards.
42//WHERE Code Red 2011 ACTIONS one of SPEAK the most LOUDER memorable THAN days WORDS/#243 in surfing history
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//43

It was so big it was like being in a cartoon
At Teahupoo, surfing success is measured by one metric: riding
barrels. Turns and cutbacks will get scored, but it's epic barrels or
nothing.
Considered by many the King of Teahupoo, local legend Raimana Van
Bastolaer, when we asked about the Olympics in Teahupoo replied, “I
think some will charge, some will stay on the side if it’s a big size wave
… but we never know. Some will push themselves.”
What about the competitors from all those “non-major” surfing nations,
many of which will be facing this wave for the first time? Some will have
qualified for this event by the ISA (International Surfing Association)
heats held on four foot messy beach breaks. Is it sensible to put those
athletes in such a risky situation before the world where the result of
pushing yourself could be faceplanting on the coral reef?
"REGARDLESS WHETHER THE OPTION TO
HAVE THE OLYMPICS AT TEAHUPOO IS
WISE, IT NEEDS TO BE MENTIONED THAT
TAHITI AND HER ISLANDS HAVE SOME
OF THE BEST AND MOST BEAUTIFUL
WAVES IN THE WORLD; BEACH BREAKS
AND REEF BREAKS WITH CRYSTAL CLEAR
WATER ALL SET AMONGST BREATH
TAKING SCENERY."
44//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//45

Make our island adventure
playground your next stop
And experience the world’s most welcoming adventure holiday
Local Michele Bourez at Teahupoo at its best
In twenty years of turning up for the WSL event at Teahupoo,
which has a two-week waiting period, it has been good half
a dozen times and epic twice. Let’s say that against all odds,
the four-day-only waiting period allocated for the Olympics,
produces some ‘epic’ Teahupoo; twenty-foot barrels out of
the west. The real deal Teahupoo. What will happen then?
With billions being earned for advertising rights, would the
organisers deem it too dangerous and cancel?
The view at the end of the road is spectacular
"TEAHUPOO MEANS
WALL OF SKULLS; LET'S
HOPE THAT IS NOT AN
OMEN"
Despite these challenges, the Paris Olympic surfing event
boasts familiar names from the Championship Tour (CT),
professionals. A lot of big names have qualified to represent
their country and will perform regardless of the conditions.
But the Olympics should be different from another WSL
event where the same professionals battle it out month on
month. The Olympic Games motto is “Citius, Altius, Fortius –
Communiter” - “Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together”- part of
that togetherness is surely a level playing field for all.
The decision to host the Paris Games surfing event at
Teahupoo raises valid concerns over the environmental
impact both on land and on the reef of the location and
screams the even bigger question of its suitability, fairness
and safety for the athletes.
46//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243
Now, it's just a case of waiting and seeing what Mother
Nature serves up.
Worryingly Teahupoo means “Wall of skulls”, let’s hope that
is not an omen.
© Grégoire Le Bacon

SURVIVAL
Testing Times in the
Braeburn Range,
Nelson Lakes
Words and images by Eric Skilling
Enduring a brutal storm in the middle
of the night, collapsed tents, falling
off a log into a stream, getting lost,
unwelcome encounters with wasps,
eels the size of pythons, a seconddegree
burn injury, hitting the proverbial
wall, and - a first for me - unwanted,
uncomfortable, and unnecessary interpersonal
conflict.
Reaching the more remote Mole
Saddle was an eventful five-days. A mix
of rugged, steep, and overgrown paths,
beautiful clear rivers and streams,
magnificent views, vocal native birds,
backcountry huts full of history and
character, and secluded, peaceful
camp sites. We also finished with the
warm glow of comradeship that comes
with shared adversity. This really was
an adventure for the ages.
Mandy and Ajay negotiating the narrow track to D'Urville Hut
48//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//49

1100
1000
900
800
Roberts Road to Speargrass Hut
3 hours. Easy
Stepping out from the carpark and
into the stillness of native beech
forests must be the perfect start
to a 5-day trip. Lined with mosses
and lichens, the path meanders
past gullies filled with raucous
waterfalls, and a canopy providing
welcome relief from the summer
sun. Speargrass Hut, a favourite
of mine, and thoughtfully placed
in the gently sloping valley under
the imposing scree-covered slopes
of Roberts Ridge. A couple of us
chose a pleasant campsite in the
regenerating forest nearby, with the
company of an inquisitive weka.
"AN HOUR LATER,
AFTER SEARCHING,
WADING THROUGH
WATER UP TO OUR
WAISTS AND MUD
UP TO OUR KNEES,
AND A BIT OF BUSH-
BASHING, WE ENDED
BACK WHERE WE
STARTED."
1200
1000
900
600
Speargrass Hut to D’Urville Hut
8.5 Hours, 22km. Tougher
Day two was a big step up. The elevation
profile gives no indication of challenges we
faced that day. Firstly, one of our members -
for no apparent reason - suddenly ran out of
energy, or “hit-the-wall” as they say. Luckily, his
legs turned to jelly close to Sabine hut. Once
there he was able to use the radio telephone
and arrange a water-taxi trip to D’Urville Hut.
We left him enjoying the company of other
trampers, and the rest of us continued onto
D’Urville hut.
Spirits were high as we left Sabine Hut - our
colleague was in safe hands, and the track
ahead was wide and well graded. Reality
hit soon after diverting off the route to Blue
Lake and crossing the clear waters of the
Sabine River.
Within minutes we confronted washouts,
drop-offs, and missing markers. Finally, we
crossed the two bridges marked on the map,
close to the D’Urville River and the hut. Any
joy was short lived as we came across yet
another waist-deep stream, spanned by a
large log. I confidently stepped onto the log
and edged my way across, calling for Antz to
document this marvellous feat. Less than a
metre from reaching the other side, I looked
back to see who was following, which began
a slow-motion tumble into the deepest
section of the stream. Apart from dented
pride I was disappointed to find Antz had
failed to record the incident for prosperity.
It was a relief to exit the forest and step onto
the rocky river flats of the D’Urville river.
Antz noticed a marker nailed to a large piece
of driftwood lying in the centre of the flats
- we headed towards it. An hour later, after
Above: Another waist deep stream spanned by
a large log allowed a dry crossing for most.
Right: Chris on the Upper Sabine
Image by Annette
searching, wading through water up to our
waists and mud up to our knees, and a bit
of bush-bashing, we ended back where we
started.
Remarkably an eagle-eyed Mandy somehow
spotted a yellow marker on the true-left of
the river, hidden in amongst grass taller than
herself. A little later we arrived at D’Urville
Hut just in time to greet the water-taxi at the
jetty.
Antz then dropped his pack, stripped off
boots and shirt and headed for a refreshing
plunge off the jetty. Just as he was about to
step off the edge, he noticed dark shapes
in the water. Almost a dozen fat, black,
metre-long eels slithered into view. He
retreated. Later we learnt that another party
had taken the plunge and will forever bear
the scars from bites to the leg, finger, and
embarrassingly, the butt.
The day’s dramas did not end there. The
contentment of the evening meal was
shattered when a pot spilled, splashing
Jacqueline’s thighs with boiling water.
Thankfully, she was wearing woollen
thermals which withstood the worst of the
scalding liquid. Jacqueline is also a qualified
nurse, with a fully stocked first-aid kit.
Regardless, she coped with the pain and
blisters amazingly well over the next few
days.
Lastly, the people conflict. It is not cool to
arrive late, move someone else’s pack off
a bunk, and claim the bunk for yourself.
It is even less cool to then claim an extra
mattress alongside yours for your gear. Hut
etiquette 101 - be cool by acting respectfully
or expect conflict.
50//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//51

700
650
600
550
500
450
D’Urville Hut to Tiraumea Hut
3 hours. A short day
That night it began to rain. Initial plans to conquer Mt
Misery were always going to be under review after the
tortuous journey the day before, but when we heard the
summit-track described as “rubbish!”, and the return
times were “at least 9 hours” without the rain, we settled
on a more modest target of Tiraumea Hut.
After leaving the riverbed the track climbs steeply for
about 250 metres into a beautiful beech forest. From
there we meandered gently downhill to the hut. It helped
when the wind began to drop with the rain easing to
passing showers and bouts of warm sunshine.
Tiraumea Hut is a classic backcountry hut, nestled on
a grassy flat fifty metres from the river, and surrounded
by lush forest. A sign over the door proudly announces,
“Built in 1961; R Sutherland and R Osman”. Despite it
being well maintained, it was also clear from the visitors’
book that this dwelling has sheltered very few.
1200
equip
yourself!
1000
900
600
Tiraumea Hut to Mole Saddle
5 hours. Quite tough but not a long day
Once again, the elevation profile does not do justice to
the steep, leg-aching ascent shorty after leaving the hut.
More dense podocarps and beech dominate this narrow,
up-and-down route, with some steep and rocky gullies to
scramble around.
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Experience had taught us to identify the black beech
favoured by invading wasps, but alas, the narrowness
of the track led to inevitable close encounters. Both
Mandy and I suffered their wrath this day after invading
the territories of these unwelcome colonists. Personally,
I did not have any longer-term effects from the attack,
but Mandy endured painful swelling despite using
antihistamine cream and taking a tablet.
It was also my turn to hit-the-wall. Quite suddenly I
found my heart rate reaching anaerobic levels at the
slightest effort. I struggled on, thanks to the help and
encouragement of the others, but it was a huge relief
when we walked out above the bushline into sunshine
and the alpine grasses below the Mole Saddle.
And what a sight. To the northeast - over Mt Misery - the
horizon dominated by the ragged peaks of the Cedric
range. A brilliant white speck of ice marked the 2278
metre Mt Hopeless, its summit clothed in a small blanket
of passing cloud. Ahead of us the scrub covered Ella
range hid all further views east. To the southwest the
Matakitaki River was a meandering ribbon of silver in the
afternoon sun.
Deciding to camp where we stood was an easy decision
- just below the saddle at about 1300 metres. We took
full advantage of a gentle breeze and bright sunshine to
dry out soggy gear, enjoy the views, and dine together
under the backdrop of the surrounding mountains.
"QUITE SUDDENLY I
FOUND MY
HEART RATE
REACHING
ANAEROBIC LEVELS
AT THE SLIGHTEST
EFFORT."
The Storm – 10 hours. Tough
Very wet and very windy
An advantage of camping high is the
spectacular views. A disadvantage is exposure
to the elements. Around 11pm I was woken by
a sudden gust and the staccato of raindrops
on my tent. Within an hour Antz was adjusting
pegs, guy ropes and pole attachments as his
tent was laid flat by gusts of wind.
Another tent had lost all its pegs and was
flapping like a flag in a hurricane. That
occupant emerged dazed, damp, and
disorientated, but within minutes she was cosily
bundled in the tent of her knight-in-shiningthermals.
Ajay’s chivalry is now legendary. I
must make a plug for my single-person Macpac
Microlight which kept me dry and warm all night
despite the battering.
1400
1200
1000
900
600
Jamieson Track
3 hours. Easy
Unsurprisingly, we were all up before 6am, packed and
heading down the small stream that was once the Jamieson
track, and the shelter of the mature beech forest. Fortunately,
the storm eased within an hour, leaving us with genuine joiede-vivre
as we congratulated each other after crossing the
farm fence at the end of the track.
This trip had exceeded everything I expected, but also left me
promising to be back - there is so much more to explore and
enjoy out here.
I prefer to use Jetboil, Backcountry and Macpac product,
especially Macpac Tents.
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//53

SURVIVAL
Surviving the
worlds scariest lifts
Words and images by Phil Clark from Mad About Travel
Skiing is one of the best pass times ever and
over the years it has offered me some incredible
experiences. Throughout the world ski resorts all
have a few things in common, mountain scenery,
fast paced action, downhill thrills and scary lifts!
Often to get to some of the best terrain you need
to brace yourself for a frightening ride! Braving
your fears is one of the best things about skiing,
people face fear in many ways. Riding lifts which
frighten the bejesus out of you just piques your
experience and makes the reward even better.
Here are some of the most epic ski lifts I have
found throughout the world.
NEW ZEALAND
Craigieburn, Southern Alps – Located on the
way to Arthurs pass this club ski field has some
of the best two natural powder bowls in the South
Island of New Zealand. It also has one of the
wickedest “Nut Cracker “ rope tows. Fast and
unforgiving the technique is to ski up to the rope,
flip your “nut cracker” onto it, and hang on! In
about 8 minutes you will be at the top about to ski
some of the best powder in NZ.
Treble Cone, Wanaka – Now a part of history
the Saddle T Bar was one of the sickest jokes the
NZ ski industry decided to play on unsuspecting
skiers and boarders. Traversing an exposed,
rough, ice strewn off camber ridge the T bar
naturally sorted the gifted from the ordinary. If you
could ride the Saddle T Bar then you could ride
the epic natural half pipes and powder of Treble
Cones saddle. Replaced by a chair running on a
much more sensible route the terrain is still epic
and still sorts the gifted from the ordinary.
EUROPE
Meribel, France – Known locally as “The Fridge”
and “The Freezer”, “The Plan Des Mains” and
“Cote Brun” are two of the highest lifts in the
Three Valleys mega ski resort in France. They
link Meribel with Val Thorens which is at 3500m.
These north facing chairs catch all the wind,
snow and blizzard conditions. As I found out
when running a chalet in Val Thorens, they are
the only way home after a long day of skiing the
incredibly long runs or the Three Valleys and
they are COLD! A hot Vin Chaud is vital once
these lifts have been experienced on a freezing
December afternoon.
Aigle du midi tram in Chamonix
Pizza Box Niseko
Chamonix, France – The Valley Blanche is one of the worlds longest
ski runs which starts at 3800m and travels over 17km’s over an active
glacier. In order to access this run you need to take a few brave pills!
First there is the tram which climbs 2317m from the town to the top
of a needle peak. Then there is the arete ridge from the peak to the
glacier, so you don crampons, get the rope out and abseil down the
arete. Finally there is the 17km’s of glacier to ski, preferably without
falling down a bottomless crevice! Best completed with a guide, for
every avid skier this is a must do experience!
JAPAN
Furano, Hokkaido – The H1 link chair from Kitanomine to Furano.
This chair goes flat, then down, then up and up and up! Linking the
two resorts of Furano it shows you some of the most epic off piste
terrain in Furano.
Niseko, Hokkaido – The two infamous Pizza box chairs of Niseko,
“The King lift” and the “Wonderland Chair”. Literally like sitting on a
pizza box these single seat chairlifts have no safety bar, no friends
and are right at the top of the mountain so they rock like a 70’s
hipster. They do access some of the most epic powder bowls in the
WORLD. So they have to be ridden!
"IN ORDER TO ACCESS THIS RUN YOU NEED
TO TAKE A FEW BRAVE PILLS! FIRST THERE
IS THE TRAM WHICH CLIMBS 2317M FROM
THE TOWN TO THE TOP OF A NEEDLE
PEAK. THEN THERE IS THE ARETE RIDGE
FROM THE PEAK TO THE GLACIER...FINALLY
THERE IS THE 17KM’S OF GLACIER TO SKI,
PREFERABLY WITHOUT FALLING DOWN A
BOTTOMLESS CREVICE! "
54//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//55

Experts at adventure travel since 2000
"where clients become friends"
Mammoth Mountain
USA
Jackson Hole, Wyoming – The Aerial
Tram runs from the base of Jackson
Hole to the summit of the Grand Tetons
4,139 feet high in 12 minutes. While
you’re on your way up a helpful lifty
runs a safety briefing telling you all
about how the ungroomed advanced
offpiste black terrain you’re about to
encounter, is absolutely not suitable for
beginners or even intermediate skiers.
Once you’re up there you can agree
with them while poking your nose into
the vertical entrance to Corbets Couloir.
The 360 degree views of the Grand
Tetons really are amazing, and the ski
down even better.
Mammoth Mountain, California –
The famous Chair 23 runs straight up
Scottys face to the summit ridge. You
get a birds eye view of this double black
face while sitting on a rocky fixed grip
slippery plastic chair seat WITH NO
SAFETY BAR! Its truly frightening but
the run is worth it!
Big Sky, Montana – The Lone Peak
tram has just been replaced so it’s not
quite as daunting as it was when you
could only fit four people in it. This 4612
foot long tram ride deposits you on the
teeny, tiny tip of Lone Peak. DO NOT
FALL OVER as you’re putting your
skiis on, cause you won’t stop until
you reach the bottom! The exposure of
the mountain peak is something else,
the easiest way down is a long, steep,
black diamond run down Liberty bowl.
If it’s too much, you can look at the
view, take some photos and take the
tram back down.
56//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243
"YOU GET A BIRDS EYE VIEW OF THIS
DOUBLE BLACK FACE WHILE SITTING ON A
ROCKY FIXED GRIP SLIPPERY PLASTIC CHAIR
SEAT WITH NO SAFETY BAR! ITS TRULY
FRIGHTENING BUT THE RUN IS WORTH IT!"
CANADA
White water, British Columbia - Not
so much frightening, as quaint, White
water ski resort has four chair lifts and
a handle tow for beginners. These are
some of the oldest lifts I have seen still
running! 40 years young and locally
owned, they brought used chairlifts to
keep costs down. Later in a world of
modern express detachable chairlifts,
they brough a couple of great value fixed
grip lifts. White Water’s very first point of
their mission statement is “Making the
experience affordable” I applaud this
resorts sentiment, and on top of this, the
resort is AWESOME! Whitewater sits in a
natural powder valley and gets some of
the best powder I have ever skied in, the
local town of Nelson is pretty wicked too.
Big White, British Columbia – The
Cliff chair at Big White is well named,
climbing a double black powder bowl,
the chair starts out mellow and then
climbs almost vertically over a rocky bluff
which precedes the 1km long Parachute
Bowl . The Cliff chair gives you a hairraising
view of the terrain you’re about
to shred. One of the highest mountains
in the Okanagan, Big White has some of
the best powder bowls in the area.
Portillo, Chile
SOUTH AMERICA
Portillo, Chile – Located in the Andes right
on the border between Argentina and Chile
this small steep ski resort has discovered that
ski lifts tend to get wiped out by avalanches
if you leave them in place in big storms. So
the invented a removable 6 person T bar.
Randomly this lift works incredibly well,
but it’s a fine line between white knuckle
terrifying and exhilarating! The Va-et vient
(sling shot) lifts fire you up the mountain at an
unprecedented pace, rewarding you with a
long powder run down.
There is one thing in common with all these frightening lifts - they access the most
amazing powder and terrain! The moral of this story, take your brave pills, harden up and
enjoy some of the best terrain the world has to offer you.
For more information contact: www.madaboutravel.co.nz
"We live what we sell"
0800 623 872
info@madabouttravel.co.nz
madabouttravel.co.nz

trekking himilayas
Led by Robert Bruce
In late December to January
2024 a large group of New
Zealanders, hosted by Got To
Get Out founder Robert Bruce,
successfully trekked to Mt
Everest Base Camp in Nepal.
Most of the group achieved
their goal of trekking to a height
of 5364m above sea-level in
the middle of Nepal winter. At
the higher altitudes the group
endured temperatures down
to -20 overnight and -15 in the
day, utterly freezing conditions.
This is the fourth time Robert
has taken a large group of
Kiwis to the foot of the tallest
mountain on earth, his fifth time
guiding in Nepal having also
guided the Annapurna Circuit.
This trip marks the 10th year
anniversary of his founding Got
To Get Out. He always returns
in Nepal winter, New Zealand's
Christmas holidays.
Robert came up with the idea
of getting people 'outdoors
and active' after his first trip to
the Himalayas in 2014 after
leaving the corporate world to
instead start a social enterprise
that gets people active. As well
as hosting nearly 1000 ‘micro
advenures’ in New Zealand
since, he has been particularly
passionate about enabling and
leading what he calls ‘the Kiwi
‘rite of passage’ to Basecamp.
This particular trek, compared
to any other in New Zealand
or Nepal, feels very significant
thanks to the strong kiwi
connection of Sir Edmund
Hillary. “‘Sir Eds’ legacy
feels ever-present in the
Khumbu region, with various
monuments, statues, bridges
and buildings named in both
his and Tenzing Norgay's
honour. For trekkers landing
in Lukla from Kathmandu (the
very beginning of the trek to Mt
Everest), the first thing you see
is the name on the terminal
‘Tenzing Hillary Airport’. Some
call this the most dangerous
airfield in the world, but ‘most
thrilling’ is a better description,
as you come in to land on a
tiny, steeply angled airfield
seemingly carved out of the
side of the hill. The story goes
that Sir Ed rounded up the
Sherpa people and literally
stomped the earth flat with
their feet, walking up and down
the hill to form the first version
of the runway.
"SOME CALL
THIS THE MOST
DANGEROUS
AIRFIELD IN THE
WORLD, BUT
‘MOST THRILLING’
IS A BETTER
DESCRIPTION"
The trek to basecamp is
around 120 km return. Trekkers
only walk around 10km per day
though some day are longer,
with a gradual ascent that
some days are steeper than
others. Walkers ascend around
500m of vertical elevation a
day. The usual walking time is
around 8 hours a day, split in
two before and after lunch. The
relative short days of walking
(compared to say, hiking Te
Araroa in New Zealand) is
important to not ascend too
quickly and risk getting altitude
sickness, and also to walk
within daylight hours as it gets
very cold when the sun begins
to fall behind the towering
7000 and 8000+ meter peaks
flanking the valley you are
ascending.
The terrain of the trek is
somewhat similar to Tongariro
Crossing in New Zealand; the
trail is basically dry, rock-hard
compacted earth, interspersed
with rock steps. Not technical
at all, but a long slow trudge.
The route was originally
developed to facilitate trade
between Tibet/ China and
Nepal, so the trail has been
designed with yaks in mind,
and is still used for them. The
trail is the perfect width for
a large herd of yaks to pass
through in single file, and never
too steep for them to continue
their long heavily laden trudge
uphill. Walkers need to give
way to yaks, and get out of
their way!
There are no roads in the
Himalayas at all, so the only
way produce and supplies can
get delivered cost effectively
is on the backs of animals,
or people. Helicopters can
bring supplies in, but it is very
expensive. So daily, herds of
mules, cows and at higher
levels yaks trundle past daily,
kicking up huge clouds of dust.
It’s important to keep your
mouth covered to avoid getting
it into your lungs.
Each day on the trail, hikers
stay in tea houses, and
these become your ‘home
away from home’. The tea
houses are another relic of
the trade route from Tibet to
Nepal, conveniently perfectly
positioned to provide rest for
weary Sherpa who would stop
to rest and have tea, during
their immensely long trade
journeys. Today, there are
multiple tea houses in each
little village you come to, that
serve a wide array of food and
drink and accommodation.
Western food options like
pasta pizza and chips are
available, but it’s nice to have
local cuisine. Almost every
meal is vegetarian, it’s not
recommended to have meat in
the Himalaya, without knowing
how it was transported or
stored. Power is unreliable
and so refrigeration is not
confirmed.
On arrival at Basecamp the
Got To Get Out group cheered
each other, and celebrated
their huge effort. Some of the
group waved New Zealand
flags, ate their favourite foods
brought all the way from home,
and of course took many
photos standing on the famous
rocks and boulders at base
camp with the Khumbu icefall,
and Everest in the background.
Some photos show the
kiwis standing in front of
the infamous Khumbu
icefall, where most Everest
climbing expeditions begin.
Mountaineers have to cross
ladders placed precariously
over huge constantly moving
ice slabs, before attempting
Mt Everest. It’s considered
some of the most dangerous
mountaineering in the world,
and features heavily in films
and documentaries.
At this time of year the barren
frozen surface resembles
more of a moonscape, again,
somewhat similar to the
Tongariro Crossing. Not a
single tent can be seen, only
rocks and ice. And it’s very
clean! People always ask ‘are
there bodies and rubbish up
there?’. The answer is that
basecamp and the walking
route through the Khumbu is
very clean. Concerted efforts
over the years have ensured
that the tourism experience
is very good and rubbish is
removed.
Higher up on Everest, yes
apparently there are bodies
that simply can’t be removed
but mostly covered by snow
and ice other than perhaps a
boot sticking out visible. These
days Sherpa are incentivised
to bring rubbish down off the
mountain, and it can create
good income for them to
remove unused bottles and
other waste, so it has been
cleaned up considerably.
Only the very tip of the summit
of Mt Everest can be seen from
Base Camp. So the best views
of Mt Everest is very much on
the days approaching it, or
from Kala Patthar 5644m, the
viewing point some choose
to do before departing Gorek
Shep (the highest camp) on
the last day before turning
around.
The weather this year was the
best group leader Bruce had
ever seen since first visiting ten
years ago. The sun was high
each day, skies blue with white
7000 and 8000m peaks all
around. Bruce said he hoped
the mild conditions were not
a sign of a region warming
up, as prior trips had reached
lows of -30 at Basecamp. -16
at Basecamp was warm in
comparison and with no snow
on the ground, it was quite a
contrast from prior years,
The total size of the expedition
each day was actually over
25 individuals, with expert
Nepalese trekking guides and
porters included in the count.
The kiwis he brings each year
have an excellent relationship
with the Nepalese guides,
some of whom he has trekked
with three or four times. The
local guides and porters very
much appreciate the spending
(money) and work they get in
their down-season, with some
walking many days from their
lowland farms, especially to
join the annual Got To Get Out
treks.
This year, as with prior trips,
some of Roberts' group
encountered challenges linked
to altitude sickness. Just
walking daily in extreme cold
conditions and being in a dry
dusty environment can lead to
various chest and lung issues.
This year one guest got sent
home via helicopter quite early
in the expedition from Namche
Bazar (the ‘Sherpa capital’) at
3440m above sea level. This
Kiwi hiker contracted a chest
infection after just three days
walking, so after consultation
with the doctor on the trip, and
along with Nepalese guiding
staff, the decision was made to
send the patient to a purpose
built trekkers hospital in
Kathmandu via helicopter.
Another guest did make it to
Everest Base Camp before
being diagnosed with HAPE
(high altitude pulmonary
edema) so also needed to
descend via helicopter.
Both made a full recovery, but
it further illustrates the risk and
challenges of embarking on
this adventure. It is not for the
faint hearted. The main issues
trekkers face are chest (lung)
infections, hard to breath,
intense headaches, sore
throat, loss of appetite, and
fatigue. If walkers can endure
all of that, they make it to their
goal of Mt Everest Base Camp.
“The choice of guiding in the
winter season in Nepal is
strategic”, says Bruce.
In peak climbing and trekking
seasons (around May for
climbing, November for
trekking) the tea houses,
accommodation and flights
in-and-out of the Himalaya
are very full. In winter when
he travels, less people are
willing to brave the colder
temperatures and so the
trails are nearly empty. These
conditions are perfect for
Got To Get Out to bring large
groups of Kiwis, who tend
to be available during their
Christmas holidays, eager to
attempt the 'rite of passage' to
follow the footsteps of sir Ed,
and tick Basecamp off their
bucket list.
This year, Robert and Got To
Get Out plans to host more
international expeditions to get
Kiwis outdoors on overseas
adventures. He has in mind
the Machu Picchu Inca trail in
Peru, Mt Kilimanjaro summit
in Africa, and of course a
return to what he now calls
the unofficial home of his
social enterprise - Mt Everest
Base Camp for New Years
2025. Details will follow via his
social media when tickets are
available.
58//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//59

what values matter most to them.
I think this correlates with the time
they spent either alone or with others
walking in the bush, floating down
rivers or paddling on the ocean.”
He hopes to inspire and empower
people to explore the natural
environment as a way of improving
mental health.
Ocean conservation is also an
important issue for the boys. Like
many Kiwis, the four grew up on
the coast, nourished by the sand,
salt and the waves. The ocean was
instrumental in their childhoods and
continues to play a guiding role
now. For this reason they believe
it is essential we preserve and
protect our ocean for the future.
Funds raised will also go to Live
Ocean which supports exceptional
marine scientists, innovators and
communicators to champion and
improve the health of our coastline
and marine ecosystems.
The team understands the
magnitude of the challenge ahead of
them. Attempting to kayak +2000km
along the coastline, with variable
winds, weather, temperatures and
ocean conditions is nothing to
take lightly. “This will undoubtedly
be one of the most physically and
mentally demanding trips we have
attempted”, Drew reflects, “but that
is what excites me, the challenge is
why we are attracted to it.” Training
and preparation are key for the boys
to make sure their bodies and skills
are in top form before they set off.
Spread across the country, the team
have been preparing individually
for the trip. Running guided tours,
Cared, Kurt and Connor are out
paddling most days for work,
however all jump at an opportunity
to paddle further afield in their own
time. Drews’ preparation on the
other hand, has him on the water
most mornings and afternoons,
spending as much time in the kayak
in between work.
A journey of this nature is made
easier with support. A few generous
sponsors have already got on
board to help the boys out with the
expeditions; NMIT has lent them
the use of four kayaks and Chris
from Kayak HQ in Nelson, a huge
advocate for mental health, has
generously assisted the four boys
with some CKER paddles, transport
of the kayaks, and other sea
kayaking gear.
The boys welcome every little bit of
new support, whether that means
following them on Instagram or
Facebook, spreading the word,
contributing to their Givealittle or
supporting through some kind of
sponsorship. You can contact them
through their email or their socials.
paddl4purpose@gmail.com
@paddleforpurpose
paddle for purpose
In March, four kiwi boys embarked on a
three-month kayak journey from Cape
Reinga to Wellington down the east coast
of the North Island (about 2200 km).
The team is made up of three Stewart
brothers, Kurt, Connor and Drew, all
originally from Whangarei, and a close
friend, Cared Blackham, from Eastbourne,
Wellington.
Drew, the youngest of the Stewart
brothers, had the idea to navigate the east
coast of the North Island by kayak after
completing the South Island portion of the
Te Araroa Trail back in 2019. He felt that
walking the North Island portion of the
Trail would miss the North Island's true
beauty: its coastline.
Drew’s wild idea was a seed planted with
his two older brothers, Kurt and Connor,
and now four years on, that seed is
starting to bear fruit. In the intervening
years, Drew studied Environmental
Planning at the University of Waikato,
and began working as an environmental
consultant. Meanwhile, Kurt and Connor
completed an adventure tourism diploma
at Nelson Marlborough Institute of
Technology (NMIT), which is where they
met Cared, who was stoked on the idea of
an epic kayak trip down the North Island
coastline. Kurt, Connor and Cared are
all now kayak guides working across the
country in Wanaka, Whangarei and Abel
Tasman respectively.
None of the four have undertaken a sea
kayak expedition of this magnitude, and
with all living in separate locations in
Aotearoa, planning and preparation has
been no easy task. But each of them are
committed to the journey.
A key driver for the boys is using the trip to
make a positive contribution to two things
that mattered to them most; the health of
people and the environment. “These two
go hand in hand for us. Exercise in and
on the water, bush and mountains has a
massive positive effect on my physical
and mental wellbeing, as well as for many
others. I think that a lot of people have
forgotten or are yet to discover this”, Kurt
says. Through their Givealittle campaign,
they are hoping to make a positive
impact on mental health awareness and
marine conservation. The Mental Health
Foundation of NZ and Live Ocean are
both charities supporting causes close to
their hearts.
Having experienced their own mental
struggles and watching friends and family
also navigate the choppy waters of mental
health, they would like to help make this
process easier and more accessible by
supporting the Mental Health Foundation
of NZ. They hope to inspire others to start
their own journey towards an improved
wellbeing and to help remove some of
the stigma around getting support for
mental health. They believe the simplicity
of nature can take us away from all the
stresses that follow us day-to-day, and
that time and exercise in the natural world
can help heal the mind, body and soul.
The four boys have all found that getting
out into the natural environment has
helped them grow, explore their identity
and find solace. Cared realised the
importance of being active out in nature
while studying at NMIT/Te Pukenga. The
personal development he saw in himself
and his peers was eye opening. “I saw
friends develop a sound understanding of
their own personal identity and discover
WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?
TREK. CLIMB SKI.REPEAT
60//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243
WANAKA, NZ | WWW.ASPIRINGGUIDES.COM | +64 27 301 0466 | INFO@ASPIRINGGUIDES.COM

"DAVID
ATTENBOROUGH
WOULD DEFINITELY
BECOME AROUSED WITH
THIS ONE. YOU SCALE
A COUPLE OF ALMOST
SHEER CLIMBS AND
CLAMBER UP BESIDE A
WATERFALL."
the goat
New Zealand’s toughest 20k trail run
Words by Nick Laurie
January 20th and it was time to test out just
how hard the hardest 20k trail run actually
is. I had entered when I was training for the
Kepler Challenge(60k) and 20k seemed like
a small training run to me. My plan was to
dominate the Kepler and then do a couple of
trots after Christmas and be ready for a great
showing at this ‘fun-run.’ Oh how wrong could
I be.
Firstly, I did not dominate the Kepler. I had my
arse handed to me on an unrelenting course
and underestimated the recovery that was
needed after such an effort. I would go for
a run and at any sign of a hill it was almost
like a PTSD reaction and my mind would
give it the big nah. Straight after Christmas
I was able to put my big boys’ pants on and
had a couple of good 15-25k sessions at
Wenderholm and on the bush reserves of
Auckland’s North Shore. There are some
really cool trails in Albany, Glenfield and
Birkenhead. Thanks Auckland Council.
All prepped and primed I was set for an
impressive showing down at Mt Ruapehu.
The GOAT is an event that has been going
20 years and, in our race, celebrated it’s
10,000th finisher. It follows the Western
round alpine track from Whakapapa to Turoa.
It is approximately 20k long, has 1168m
ascent and covers terrain that includes lava
flows, scoria fields, mountain beech forest,
tussock grasslands and alpine herb fields.
David Attenborough would definitely become
aroused with this one. You scale a couple of
almost sheer climbs and clamber up beside a
waterfall.
As with every one of these missions, gear
selection is very important. Being an alpine
event there was a list of compulsory gear
that every competitor had to take with
them. I must say that this was very strictly
policed with one of the most rigorous gear
inspections that I have ever experienced.
This team should be sent to Mt Eden jail - no
contraband would get past them. I arrived
pretty late to registration, and I think that
they had already had a laugh hours earlier,
so when I offered to show them my whistle I
just got the stupid boy look. They were big on
having a seam sealed jacket a proper long
sleeve thermal top and an emergency bag,
not blanket. I picked up my lucky number 309
and went back to our Air BNB.
"I DID NOT DOMINATE
THE KEPLER. I HAD MY
ARSE HANDED TO ME
ON AN UNRELENTING
COURSE AND
UNDERESTIMATED THE
RECOVERY THAT WAS
NEEDED AFTER SUCH
AN EFFORT."
We discussed what gear each of us would
be using tomorrow and each had a fuelling
strategy. The first call was shoes. Some of the
lads had done it before and had visions of a dry
track and selected their footwear accordingly.
I chose to run in the Asics Trabuco Max shoes
that I had got for Christmas. I wanted to use
these because they had extra cushioning and
were nice and grippy, with rain expected. They
were great drainers as well which is important
when going through water. You don’t want
waterproof shoes otherwise you end up carrying
2 buckets of water strapped to your feet. The
next important thing to spend some money on
is socks. I got myself a pair of thorlo trail socks.
Great cushioning, non blistering and they had a
firm band above the ankle which kept heaps of
trail debris out.
We all had our individual fuelling strategies.
I had trained with the plan of a gel and an
electrolyte capsule every hour. I knew that I
would need 1.25l and decided to take 1.5l just in
case. There were no aid stations on the course
as it is very remote. The golden rule here is
don’t try something new on race day. One guy
tried out a new brand of gel and paid the price
with a crampathon. I personally liked the GU
band as they were easy to swallow and easy on
the gut.
We got one of the wives, thanks Sandi, to rise
early and drive us to the start. She hung around
and took some epic video of us all looking at our
best as we ran the first 1.75k down the sealed
road to the track. Everyone says to save your
quads on this sealed downhill stretch, but I say,
don’t listen. It is the best surface that you will
have all race so unleash the inner Kenyan. It’s
also the only time that you will want to check
your Garmin. The rest of the kilometre splits are
deeply disappointing.
We were penned off into seeded groups of 50
and set off at 3-minute time intervals. It was
quite cool to watch the top guys take off. I
remember seeing this couple in matching his
and her outfits with the top seeds and I thought
oh how nice they have let a couple of tourists
have a nice experience. The, “her” finished top
woman and the “him” finished 3rd overall. They
were world orienteering champs! The seeding
worked well because we were soon onto single
track, and you didn’t want to be barging or
holding people up.
62//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//63

RIDE, RELAX
& REPEAT
Explore scenic Rotorua
with our Mountain
Biker package
starting from $279!
"I REMEMBER STANDING
UP ON ONE SECTION
OF THE WATERFALL
AND FEELING A BIT
LIGHTHEADED. I WAS
SURPRISED NOT TO SEE
FELLOW COMPETITORS
HURTLING TO THEIR
DEATHS."
I remember standing up on one section of the
waterfall and feeling a bit lightheaded. I was
surprised not to see fellow competitors hurtling
to their deaths. Apparently, the top competitors
come and scope these rockfaces out during
training and work out the most efficient way up
them. My tactic was to follow the guy in front of
me. I knew that the last 1.6k was going to be up
a sealed road and I was relishing getting to that
and running like the chariots of fire movie up to
the red-carpet finish.
Book Now: 0800 538 466
237 Fenton Street, Rotorua
"I HAD A
NEWFOUND
ADMIRATION
FOR SIR EDMOND
HILARY AS HE HAD
TO RELENTLESSLY
CLIMB LIKE THIS
FOR WEEKS AT A
TIME WHILE I WAS
STUFFED DOING
IT FOR 3 HOURS."
After the beautiful downhill sealed section, it was on to the
shitty trails. It was raining and the ruts turned into muddy
creek beds. It was hard to get any footing and for most of it
running was out of the question. It was an obstacle course.
I can remember the person in front of me trying to avoid
the first few puddles and rivers but after about 30 minutes
everyone was just covered in mud. I came up to a guy
towards the end of the race who looked nice and clean and
asked how he had managed to dodge the mud. He said at
the last river he had just had a lie down and a wash!
I felt fresh throughout the first half of the race and went a
hard as I could. There were 3 guys that I used to row with,
and my goal was to catch them. I caught one of them by
halfway but when the terrain opened up a bit I literally hit
the wall. I opened the after burners and started to run a
bit harder but with the fatigue from the obstacle course I
wasn’t lifting my feet as best I could. I kicked a rock and
went over face first. This was not only embarrassing but
very depleting. The shot of adrenaline was a waste of
energy and was sapping.
I fell on 5 occasions and got pretty fucked off! This is
where I could do better if I ever come back. I need to work
on my agility. I remember seeing the 10k marker and
thinking that they had got that wrong. Surely, we were at
20!
C
M
Y
Let us take you on
a great adventure...
The last section of the race is on a steep sealed
road and is affectionately known as Mama’s
Mile. So named because at this stage you just
want your mum. I had my goal to run this section
but after about 20m I worked out that that was
the dumbest thing that I had ever thought of. If
I had have run a bit more of this section instead
of power walking, I would have placed top ten
in the very old person’s section. Maybe next
time. It was steep and I had run out of why. I
finished 4h and 50 secs- didn’t get my 4h goal
either. Maybe next time. The winner came in at
1h55. His Dad has won the race 8 times and
finished second at 1h58 to the prodigy. I can’t
comprehend how these guys do this so quickly.
A member of our group, Watti, won the real race
(over 60s) in 3h11 and I had the fastest 1st k in
the group 4m15secs.
Sarah asked me would I come back? It’s a race
that requires agility which is not my skillset, but
it is a test of grit. I do these things to impress
myself and if I can get going a bit faster and
not fall so much perhaps, I could crack the 4h
barrier.
See you next year GOAT.
In the second half of the race, we had to scale a very
steep hill section on hands and knees and then at
17k there was a rock waterfall that we had to climb. I
commented to a fellow competitor that I had a newfound
admiration for Sir Edmond Hilary as he had to relentlessly
climb like this for weeks at a time while I was stuffed doing
it for 3 hours.
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
www.alpinerecreation.com

Fishing
pivotal moments
that change everything
Words and images by Matt Butler
In my teens I began to explore
a bit further from home
From a young age, I have always had
an innate draw to the outdoors, any
chance I could get I would prefer it was
spent outside. But everything changed
when at 12 years old, I was introduced
to fly fishing after my mother sent me
to a fishing club on my own one night.
That night, something just clicked. It felt
like this is what I was supposed to be
doing and I was going to pursue it at
any cost.
I got my first rod for my 13th birthday
and with no tuition or guidance it took
me 3 years to catch my first fish. I did
everything I could to get better, I read
books, bought gear and joined the
fishing club. But being the youngest in
the room by at least 4 decades, it was a
tough crowd.
It’s ironic that any seasoned fly
fisherman will say that a day on the
water is not about catching fish, it’s
about the experience and opportunity.
Because at a young age this is how I
felt, I was just happy to be out there.
Over the coming years, I used to get
out to the river after school and go on
the odd weekend trip to some far away
destination. That was until I moved
up to the big smoke to launch my first
business. These years were spent
toiling away with little thought to much
else, although the dream was to one
day be free to fish every day.
This moment came sooner than I
thought, when I decided to liberate
myself from the city and move south
to Wanaka, New Zealand to pursue
my burning desire to fish. My lack of
water time in the previous few years
showed, as I struggled to get my first
south island fish. But it was the ability to
see the trout in the water that changed
everything.
Observation was now my number
one priority. Rather than jumping in
to catch a fish, I would often sit and
just watch, seeing how it fed and
reacted to external influences. I would
then calculate my approach and
methodically go about catching it. At
times I would even set up a camera
to film myself in the process for later
review.
All of this waiting, watching and
analysis paid off as I quickly mastered
my game and it wasn’t long until I
charged in with confidence. Eventually
getting to the stage where I felt I had
the skills to teach others.
I had done so much fishing on my own
over the preceding year and I felt some
company would be much appreciated.
So, I decided to try becoming a guide. I
was a bit hesitant and unsure at first, but
I backed myself to figure it out on the go.
My first ever day guiding was spent
in a helicopter flying all over South
Westland with a couple of American
billionaires. I had never been in a
helicopter before so it was mind blowing
and I was more than glad to have a
senior guide accompanying me and
showing me the ropes.
Cicada snack!
66//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//67

Moments like this are what inspire my work at KEA Outdoors
This trip turned out to be life changing. At this
point, guiding was just a temporary dabble for
me. But it was what one of the billionaire clients
said to me that changed the course of my life for
the next 5 years.
Sitting down on a rock to take a rest, I asked
the 80+ year old mogul, “if you could go back in
time, what would you change”. Without hesitation
he replied, “I would have enjoyed my youth and
not tried to get rich quick, you have your whole
life to make money”. As someone with ambition
in business, this struck deep to the core of
everything the world had told me. ‘Work hard,
sacrifice and enjoy life later’ was the motto of most
entrepreneurs. But it was on that day that I made a
choice, I was going to do what I loved for the next
5 years until I was 30, then get back into business.
The following 5 years were some of the most
exciting of my life as I spent up to 200 days
guiding on the water during the NZ summer and
then spent all my winter exploring and fishing
across the northern hemisphere. From tarpon in
Florida, to Salmon in Norway, Trout in Ireland and
Roosterfish in Mexico, I had the time of my life.
With the deadline of my 30th birthday
approaching, I knew it was time to make a
change. However I was having such a wild time
it was hard to consider what was next. Then
overnight, that all ended…
We all have our own story of what happened to our
lives during the pandemic and we all experienced
it in different ways. For me, it was the stop gap my
life needed to move forward. Overnight, our borders
closed to the world and I lost 99% of my work
indefinitely. My northern trip was canceled and I had
time on my hands, too much time.
But, rather than squander it I decided to take this
opportunity to make another drastic change and
start a business I could build into the future. This
was the birth of KEA Outdoors, an outdoor gear
brand that creates gear inspired by my days as a
guide but for the everyday adventurer.
The purpose of the gear ties directly back to my
frustrations when spending hundreds of days a
year outdoors. Initially this was in the first aid/
survival category but has now grown into a wider
product range and a brand with global reach.
Now I find myself at a turning point once again.
This new endeavor has sparked a new passion
for me in creating great gear for others. It has
been a challenging but rewarding journey as I
built the business mostly on my own.
But things are about to step up, as it’s now time
to lean on the success to date and take things
to the next level. We are building a brand that is
taking on the stale outdoor gear industry, from
little old Wanaka, New Zealand.
That’s why we are offering the opportunity to
those that believe in our story to become part of
this journey and to own a piece of KEA Outdoors
through our Equity Crowdfunding Campaign,
launching in April 2024.
This is a unique opportunity to join an exciting
kiwi brand taking on the world and we would love
to have you on board. You can learn more at
www.keaoutdoors.com
It’s been a wild journey over the past 20 years as
fly fishing and the outdoors has shaped my life in
a way I could neve have imagined. The biggest
take away for me is that leaning into change can
foster great things, you just need to take the dive!
"SITTING DOWN ON
A ROCK TO TAKE
A REST, I ASKED
THE 80+ YEAR OLD
MOGUL, “IF YOU
COULD GO BACK IN
TIME, WHAT WOULD
YOU CHANGE?”
WITHOUT
HESITATION HE
REPLIED, “I WOULD
HAVE ENJOYED MY
YOUTH AND NOT
TRIED TO GET RICH
QUICK, YOU HAVE
YOUR WHOLE LIFE
TO MAKE MONEY”
The all-new fourth generation Helios is the culmination of a seven-year
quest to achieve precision beyond all previous limits of your imagination.
IT’S WHERE ACCURACY COMES ALIVE.
68//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243

STAYING
SAFE
Xtorm Xtreme Solar Panel SolarBooster
21W $399.00
Overload protection and temperature
control
Auto Power Management to prevent
overheating
No internal battery
Charges 2 devices at the same time
21 Watts SunPower® Panel
WWW.OUTDOORACTION.CO.NZ
Xtorm Xtreme Rugged Power Bank 20.000mAh $199.00
High Capacity 20.000mAh for multiple device
charges
Shock-resistant and water resistant
Recharge your phone at least 4 times
Emergency Flashlight
4 USB outputs
WWW.OUTDOORACTION.CO.NZ
KEA SURVIVAL KIT GEAR PACKS $40.00- $50.00
KEA Gear Packs are built for purpose and contain all the
essential gear required to pack or refill your outdoor survival kit.
WWW.KEAOUTDOORS.COM
Xtorm Xtreme Rugged Power Bank
10.000 mAh $129.00
10.000mAh internal battery
Charges 3 devices at the same time
Integrated flashlight
Water resistant
Recharge your phone at least 2 times
3 USB outputs
WWW.OUTDOORACTION.CO.NZ
Xtorm 20W Fuel Series 4 Solar Power Bank 10.000
mAh $109.95
10.000mAh battery
20W USB-C PD output
2x USB output
Built-in SunPower® Solar Panel
Splash-proof (IPX4)
Powerful integrated LED flashlight
WWW.OUTDOORACTION.CO.NZ
KEA kit $80.00 (GO) - $120.00 (XL)
KEA KIT GO & XL are Outdoor Survival
Systems to help pack essential safety gear.
GO for on the move and the XL for vehicle/
basecamp
WWW.KEAOUTDOORS.COM
70//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//71

Kiwi Camping Medium Duffle Bag 60L $139.00
Rugged, durable and designed to withstand
the toughest adventures. The new Kiwi
Camping duffle bag comes with detachable
padded backstraps convert to the duffle into
an expansive backpack.
WWW.KIWICAMPING.CO.NZ
STAYINGAFE
Rab Emergency Group Shelter 2 $139.95
Made with lightweight and windproof polyester fabric,
this emergency shelter is suitable for 1-2 people and
includes waterproof seats and weather-resistant
ventilation windows.
WWW.OUTFITTERS.CO.NZ
Rab Trailhead Bivi $269.95
Lightweight and waterproof, this bivi offers great
protection from the elements with a MVTR rating of
10,000 g/m2/24h. To use alone or under a tarp.
WWW.OUTFITTERS.CO.NZ
Rab Siltarp 1 $229.95
Strong, seam free, ultralight, and waterproof, the
Siltarp offers a great shelter and a variety of setup
options with a central lifter point.
WWW.OUTFITTERS.CO.NZ
Rab ARK Emergency Bivi $19.95
Made with lightweight PE, the ARK
Emergency Bivi is wind and waterproof
and reflects body heat to keep you safe
in emergency situations.
WWW.OUTFITTERS.CO.NZ
EXPED WINTERLITE -5 DOWN SLEEPING BAG
$699.99
Designed for cold-weather
mountaineering and harsh
environments. Water-repellent,
breathable, windproof,
lightweight shell with 540g of
800-fill power goose down
insulation. Differential cut,
adjustable draft collar, 3D foot
box. 1070g
WWW.BIVOUAC.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.
WWW.GASMATE.CO.NZ
Kiwi Camping Matai Pro -5°C
Sleeping Bag $109.00
Matai Pro -5°C boasts
a rectangular design
providing ultimate warmth
in cold temperatures,
with generous width and
height for added comfort.
Features include a ripstop
shell, inner pocket,
adjustable hood, and YKK
zips.
WWW.KIWICAMPING.CO.NZ
kiwi camping Rover Lite 3CM Self-Inflating Hiking Mat $99.99
Compact to pack and carry, the Rover Lite selfinflates
in minutes. The tapered design can fit in a
sleeping bag for maximum comfort on adventures.
WWW.KIWICAMPING.CO.NZ
EXPED ULTRA 7R MUMMY SLEEPING MAT
$369.99 (MEDIUM)
Lightweight, supportive mat
insulated with responsiblysourced
down insulation for
comfort on your adventures
year-around. Compact packed
size, a recycled 20D ripstop face
fabric and 9cm-thick chambers
with fatter chambers at the sides
to reduce the chance of rolling
off. Certified carbon neutral by
myclimate. RV 7.1, 620g
WWW.BIVOUAC.CO.NZ
Vango F10 Xenon UL2 Tent $699.99
Stable two pole 4-season tunnel design that is easy to pitch, lightweight and
packs up small. Features a large vent over the door for airflow and stopping rain
getting into the inner with an open door, a front vestibule, high quality, lightweight
Yunan poles, and a fast-pack bag. 1.9kg (packaged weight)
WWW.BIVOUAC.CO.NZ
Kiwi Camping Weka 2 Hiker Tent $349.90
Kiwi Camping's most popular hiker tent
with double-sided entry, sturdy vestibules,
and a user-friendly design. With a fly that
handles rain and snow, the Weka 2 is
perfect for hiking adventures.
WWW.KIWICAMPING.CO.NZ
Kiwi Camping Mamaku Pro -5°C
Sleeping Bag $129.00
Mamaku Pro -5°C offers
ultimate warmth with
lightweight, compact design
and silvertherm lining for heat
retention. Ideal for outdoor
adventures with ripstop shell,
inner pocket, and YKK zips.
WWW.KIWICAMPING.CO.NZ
72//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243

ZEROFIT Heatrub move $109.95 (AUD)
Baselayer, Thermal
The Move features a 45% polypropylene
inner / hollow polyester shell that work in
tandem to regulate body temperature, so
as you work harder for longer, you don’t
overheat in the conditions.
WWW.ZEROFIT.COM.AU/PRODUCT/
HEATRUB-MOVE/
ZEROFIT Heatrub Ultimate $129.95(AUD)
Baselayer, Thermal
The award-winning Heatrub Ultimate
is best-in-class baselayer that uses
enhanced Heat Threads inside the
garment that are activated through
movement, gently brushing against the
skin to generate positive warmth instantly.
WWW.ZEROFIT.COM.AU/PRODUCT/
HEATRUB-ULTIMATE-UNISEX/
Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoodie $399.99
Ultralight and packable, featuring VerticalX
SuperStrand insulation that is just as soft, light
and lofty as 700-800 fill power down thereby
giving you the best of both down and synthetic
insulation. Ripstop nylon shell and lining for
abrasion, water and wind resistance, a quilting
pattern that reduces stitching and creates an
uninterrupted flow of warmth and it stows in its
own pocket. Available in men’s and women’s
hoodie and jacket versions. 309g (men’s large)
WWW.BIVOUAC.CO.NZ
ZEROFIT Heatrub Ultimate Leggings $129.95 (AUD)
Baselayer, Thermal
The Ultimate Leggings are made from
the same material as the award-winning
Heatrub Ultimate baselayer. The
leggings are comparable to fleece lined
overtrousers, but with the added benefit
of ease of movement.
WWW.ZEROFIT.COM.AU/PRODUCT/
ULTIMATE-LEGGINGS/
bear cottage Possum Merino Wool Ombre Throw $195.00
A unique and luxurious blend of NZ possum
fur and pure NZ merino lambswool. A beautiful
luxurious Multi Tone Throw – so versatile, so
light and ever so warm.
35% Possum Fur, 55% Merino Lambswool,
10% Mulberry Silk.
Measurements approx: 1.24m x 1.71m
WWW.BEARCOTTAGE.CO.NZ
ZEROFIT Heatrub neckwarmer $49.95 (AUD)
Adventure Wear, Thermal
The Neck Warmer uses the same ‘heat
threads’ that feature in the award-winning
Ultimate baselayer, which has been
independently proven to be five times
warmer than a standard product.
WWW.ZEROFIT.COM.AU/PRODUCT/
HEATRUB-NECKWARMER/
74//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243

FIRM OOTING
Merrell Moab 3 Womens Oyster/Chalk $259.00
The Moab 3 (Vent) Hiking Shoe - With the
inclusion of a premium Vibram outsole, the Moab
3 is built for any terrain or elevation Australia has
on offer. For over a decade, the Merrell Moab
has been the choice of hikers when a choice
needs to be made, making it the bestselling
hiker in the world. Famous for its out-of-the-box
comfort, durability and all purpose versatility, its
predecessors have enabled 25million people
to step further outdoors. Moabs 3rd version
features a new more supportive insole, a softer
more cushioned midsole, a grippier Vibram
outsole, and partially recycled fabrics.
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ
Merrell Moab Speed 2 Gore-Tex Mens Beluga / Womens Black $379.00
The Moab Speed 2 represents Merrell's latest
advancement in hiking. Combining the expertise and
trail experiences of the renowned Moab hiking boot with
cutting-edge innovations from avid hikers worldwide, this
upgraded generation of hiking shoes sets a new standard
in outdoor footwear.
• Padded collar
• Bellows tongue keeps out debris
• Protective and abrasion resistant synthetic heel and
toe cap
• Dual heel and tongue loops for ease of entry as well
as carabiner compatibility
• Cleansport NXT treated for natural odor control
• Lightweight FlexPlate technology provides
torsional rigidity, lateral stability, and forefoot
flexibility
• FloatPro Foam midsole for lightweight comfort that
lasts
• Vibram TC5+ outsole provides exceptional traction
for outdoor multi-sport activities, formulated
exclusively for Merrell
• Vibram traction lugs specifically designed to increase
traction and shed debris with each step
• Nylon ripstop and TPU upper
• 100% recycled laces and webbing
• 100% recycled breathable mesh lining
• 100% recycled mesh footbed cover
• 50% recycled removable EVA foam footbed
• Vegan-Friendly
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ
SALEWA ALP TRAINER 2 GTX $429.90
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. Climbing Lacing right to the
toe allows for a more precise fit, while the Vibram®
Alpine Hiking outsole covers a wide spectrum of
mountain terrain.
Fit: STANDARD / Weight (M) 470 g (pictured)
(W) 370 g
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ/SALEWA
SALEWA puez knit mid ptx $499.90
The first hiking boot with Salewa Alpine Hemp.
It has an abrasion-resistant knitted nylon and
ripstop polyester mid-cut upper, with hemp and
recycled polyester laces. Reinforced with an
external toe cap and 360°protective rubber rand,
it also features our PFC-free waterproof and
breathable Powertex® membrane. At the heart of
its construction built into the dual density Alpine
Hemp and EVA midsole, is the new Salewa
Edging Plate II, a special thermoplastic frame
that runs the entire length of the boot, offering a
combination of enhanced flex, and rebound for
long-lasting hiking comfort. The Pomoca Alpine
Trekker outsole offers excellent grip and traction
in technical terrain.
Fit: STANDARD / Weight (M) 480 g
(W) 385 g (pictured)
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ/SALEWA
SALEWA pedrok pro mid ptx $459.90
We designed the Pedroc Pro Mid PTX to offer
a lightweight, versatile, and protective technical
shoe with a mid-cut upper to cope in a wide range
of scenarios from mixed mountain terrain to city
streets. The SALEWA® 3F system and Ankle
Protector system provide additional support and
stability, while an abrasion-resistant double ripstop
upper with TPU rand provide enhanced protection.
Weather protection and breathability are provided
by our sustainable Powertex® PFC-free waterproof
membrane. The EVA midsole delivers optimal
rebound, and the Pomoca Speed Hiker Pro outsole
has a multi-directional lug pattern that works well on
mud, grass and rock.
Fit: STANDARD / Weight: (M) 390 g (pictured)
(W) 290 g
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ/SALEWA
Anatom Q4 Torridon B2 Mountain Boots $549.00
For 4-season trekking, rock scrambling, glacier
travel and winter walking adventures. Full rubber
rand and the finest quality leather to withstand
frequent use and provides excellent ankle support
plus the right flex and torsional support for
confidence over technical terrain. Tri-Aria 3-layer
Membrane System, Vibram® Sorapis outsole.
WWW.BIVOUAC.CO.NZ
SALEWA mountain TRAINER 2 MID GTX $649.90
Introducing the next generation of our bestselling,
robust and reliable alpine trekking boot. This hardwearing
suede leather classic with a full 360°
protective rubber rand is even lighter and more flexible.
Equipped with a waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX®
Performance Comfort membrane, a dual density
expanded PU midsole that offers a good balance of
cushioning and stiffness, and the self-cleaning Vibram®
WTC 2 outsole is engineered for improved grip and
traction in a wide range of conditions.
Fit: STANDARD / Weight (M) 600 g (W) 470 g (pictured)
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ/SALEWA
SALEWA ORTLES light MID ptx $659.90
This lightweight, comfortable mid-cut boot is both
technical and agile. The Pomoca Alpine Light outsole
ensures increased grip and traction in varied terrain.
The Ankle Protector System wraps the foot, providing
stability and protection from rock and scree. The
Edging Plate technology blends targeted stiffness for
edging stability and enhanced climbing performance
with balanced flex and rebound for hiking comfort.
The tough nylon fabric is reinforced with high-tenacity,
abrasion-resistant, protective TPU stitching and film. It
also features our PFC-free waterproof and breathable
Powertex® membrane, and the elastic gaiter keeps out
trail debris and grit.
Fit: STANDARD / Weight (M) 575 g (pictured) (W) 425 g
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ/SALEWA
76//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//77

Review
"Moab 3 features a new more
supportive insole, a softer
more cushioned midsole, and a
best-in-class Vibram® outsole."
THE WORLD’S
WARMEST BASELAYER ®
Designed in Japan, made for the outdoor world, Zerofit unisex baselayers are game-changing products for adventurers who
refuse to let colder temperatures stop them from enjoying the hills, mountains, lakes or forests.
Created by a passionate team of innovators and baselayer specialists, the Zerofit Heatrub Ultimate is the most technically
advanced baselayer on the planet and completely different to any other product you’ve ever worn before.
Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Boots
Reveiw by Eric Skilling
The sign read “Track now open. Caution Advised. Condition
of track itself very rough.” This had to be the perfect place to
test a new set of boots - lots of exposed tree roots, steep in
places, and steady rain to make it a bit muddy and slippery.
I packed several books and a few litres of water into an old
canvas Macpac Genesis and headed off.
It was not long before I had gained full confidence stepping
down the steep, slightly muddy and root-bound track. This
is hardly surprising - Merrell is hardly a start-up in the
adventure footwear industry and these boots have been a
top-selling model for over a decade.
"With a notably stiffer
sole, the boots promised
durability and great
support on rougher terrain
such as scree slopes."
With a notably stiffer sole, the boots promised durability and
great support on rougher terrain such as scree slopes, while
sacrificing a little control boulder hopping across streams. A
mid-cut with an official weight of 1kg, they felt ideal for both
single and multi-day tramping.
"By the
time I had
emerged out
of the bush
and mud,
and onto
the beach,
I had every
reason to
feel assured
that I could
rely on these
Moab boots
during future
multi-day
excursions."
The all new Moab 3 features a new more
supportive insole, a softer more cushioned
midsole, and a best-in-class Vibram®
outsole. Our newest generation is the most
environmentally friendly Moab ever, utilizing
recycled materials in construction. The Moab
3 Mid WP features a waterproof membrane to
keep your feet dry.
Features
• Waterproof membrane seals out water
and lets moisture escape
• Pig suede leather and breathable mesh
upper
• 100% recycled laces and webbing
• Bellows tongue keeps out debris
• Protective and abrasion resistant rubber
heel and toe cap
• 100% recycled breathable mesh lining
• Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable
contoured footbed with reinforced heel
cushioning for medium support
• Molded nylon arch shank
• Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs
shock and adds stability
• Super Rebound Compound provides
durable shock absorption to help reduce
torque and allow for a smooth transition
into the midfoot
• Vibram® TC5+ outsole technology gives
you confidence with every step from
mountain trails to city streets. Made
exclusively for Merrell, Vibram® TC5+
delivers all-around grip, traction, and
durability designed for every day wear.
• Lug: 5mm
• 2lbs-3.25oz, 1000g
WHAT MAKES IT SO GOOD?
1. It’s five times warmer than a
standard baselayer
That is quite a claim, but it’s a fact. Tested at the
iconic Boken Institute in Osaka, the Heatrub
Ultimate baselayer recorded a Heat Retention
Rating of 0.78; a standard baselayer would have
a rating of between 0.1 to 0.14. And for reference,
a jumper would typically have a rating of 0.3. The
Ultimate performs best in a temperature range
of -10° Celsius thru 10° Celsius – so even in the
coldest of conditions, it has got your back.
2. Instant warmth the moment
you put it on
A standard baselayer traps body heat between
your skin and the material, so it takes a little time
before you feel the benefits. With Zerofit, five
separate fabrics, along with a patented knitting
process, create instant warmth as soon as you
pull it on. We don’t engineer our products with
compression for heat as a technology, unlike
other brands. The unique fabric mix means you
don’t need the tightness in order for it to work,
making it super comfortable too.
ZEROFIT HEATRUB MOVE -
ADAPTABLE WARMTH ON THE GO
The Ultimate baselayer is perfect for the
coldest of conditions, but it is
complemented by the Heatrub Move
($109.95), which is twice as warm as a
standard baselayer and ideal for milder
temperatures of between -5° thru 12°
Celsius. It features a 45% polypropylene
construction on the inside of the
baselayer and a hollow polyester shell
that combine for ‘Adaptable Warmth’,
keeping you cosy when you’re at a
standstill yet regulating temperature and
ensuring you don’t overheat as you move.
The construction removes sweat from
the skin and evaporates it off the surface
of the baselayer quickly, so that nasty
feeling of ‘cold sweat’ never materialises.
3. Fewer layers, greater warmth
and freedom to move
The Ultimate is the ideal product for people
who dislike traditional tight baselayers. Over the
years, you may well have ‘layered up’ in order to
combat the effects of cold weather. This is
where we are changing the game. The Heatrub
Ultimate is so good at keeping you warm, you
won’t need multiple additional layers, giving
you greater freedom to move easily. In short,
fewer layers yet greater warmth.
4. Central Heating from
top to toe
Innovative ‘Heat Threads’ positioned on the
inside of the garment gently rub against your
skin as you move, which creates positive
warmth across your body and this instant heat
is retained while you’re wearing the baselayer.
We also produce Heatrub Ultimate Leggings
and Heatrub Ultimate Socks that are made
from the same material and work in exactly
the same way, so you can have top-to-toe
warmth with Zerofit.
Five times
warmer than
a standard
baselayer
Instant heat
the moment
you put it on
No need for
multiple
additional
layers – a gamechanger
Heating
from top
to toe
If I do have a concern, it would be the mesh covering the
top of the boot. Clearly a way of making the boot lighter
and more breathable - but I doubt they would cope with
long sessions ploughing through matagouri or bush lawyer.
If bush-bashing is your preference I suggest the more
rigorous Phaserbound range.
READER OFFER!
Buy any Zerofit baselayer and receive a
FREE THERMAL POM BEANIE
Worth$39.95 using code ADV001
at checkout
By the time I had emerged out of the bush and mud, and
onto the beach, I had every reason to feel assured that
I could rely on these Moab boots during future multi-day
excursions.
78//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243
The helpful team at Merrell Takapuna store
Zerofit Heatrub Ultimate baselayer (available in Black, Grey and Navy) – $129.95 ■ Zerofit Heatrub Ultimate leggings (available in Black) – $129.95
■ Zerofit Heatrub Ultimate socks (available in Black) - $49.95 ■ Zerofit Heatrub Move baselayer (available in black, white and titanium) - $109.95
FOLLOW US!
@zerofitaustralia FOR MORE DETAILS, PLEASE CONTACT zerofit@dynacast.com.au
SEE THE FULL RANGE AT WWW.ZEROFIT.COM.AU

Review
"The Apex pro is
made of strong
material around
the pockets and
has strong mesh to
keep it superlight."
CamelBak Apex Pro Run Vest
Reveiw by Nick Laurie
The latest release from CamelBak is the Apex
Pro running vest. I was sent one to test drive and
I had some deep thought on how I would put it
through its paces.
I usually use a backpack for my distance races
with the thought that I can carry more water and
not have to waste time topping it up. This tactic
did not pay off in the Kepler last December when
I ran dry for the last 10k. I was lucky that there
was a supermarket set up on the trail that saved
me from dehydration. I was keen to try a quality
running vest and CamelBak have come to the
party. I could easily refill the small bottles at taps,
streams, or aid stations. You can use a bladder
in the Apex Pro as it has an area to hold one and
a clip for the hose.
The biggest bug bear with a running vest is
that the bottles bounce around and slosh. The
inventors at Camelbak have tackled this problem
by using their sealable flasks that have a leak
lock. They are secured with 2 tie downs and
have a nifty hole in the bottom so that you can
hang them when drying. When you drink you
have to suck the flask taking the air out of play
and eliminating the slosh.
The next issue for me is that the material is often
too light and rips and tears easily. The Apex pro
is made of strong material around the pockets
and has strong mesh to keep it superlight. There
are heaps of handy storage pockets and even a
waterproof one that fits an iphone. The big deal
about this vest is that it has RECCO technology
sown into it that will reflect any search and
rescue beacon making it easy to find you if you
get lost after dark.
I wanted to test this vest on a track with heaps
of stairs to see how bouncing around would feel.
None better than the track from Huia to Whatipu
in West Auckland. Steps, Steps and more Steps.
I knew that the return trip would take me 3 hours
and the 1 litre of water that I could carry in the
flasks would give me enough. If I was guzzling
too much, I could refill at Whatipu campground.
" I found it way freer
to run with than the
backpack and loved
having all of the
weight up around
my shoulders."
I also decided to carry all of the
compulsory gear that is needed for a race
to test the capabilities. I discarded the
quiver pack for poles that comes with the
Apex Pro because I am not a stick racer
just yet. It was easy to remove and will clip
back on just as easily. The gear fit in easily
and I could distribute it around to different
pockets for comfort. I didn’t need a whistle
because the pack comes with its own.
I’m reasonably broad with a 105cm chest
and was given a size large to try. What!
Not an XL! At first glance that line from
the flight of the concords “small mans
wetsuit” came to mind but once I put it on
and adjusted the positioning of the cross
straps, to fit around my man boobs, I was
very grateful for the snug fit - no rattling or
bouncing. I found it way freer to run with
than the backpack and loved having all of
the weight up around my shoulders rather
than down in the small of the back which
after a couple of hours can get annoying.
It felt good.
The only bug bear was that I am a heavy
sweater and the whole pack with exception
of the phone pocket was saturated. I
would suggest putting thermals that you
want to stay dry in a plastic bag. I chucked
the pack in the washing machine with
my running gear, washing out the bottles
separately and am ready for my next
adventure.
This vest is the bomb!
BE IN YOUR ELEMENT.
BECOME A COP.
APPLY AT NEWCOPS.GOVT.NZ
Constable | New Zealand Police
Competitive Kaihoe Waka Ama
Bay of Plenty District
80//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243

FEED YOUR ADDICTION
Like a ‘perfect storm’, we have seen a dramatic growth and
development in online stores over the past 5 years.
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.
Aspiring Guides offers specialised, innovative & personalised
mountain guiding services.
www.aspiringguides.com
Amazing holidays for active people and those who seek
‘travel less ordinary’. www.wildsidetravel.co.nz
The best outdoor equipment for all of your adventurous
antics. Outdoor Action has you sorted.
www.outdooraction.co.nz
Building versatile and reliable gear so you
can adventure with purpose.
www.keaoutdoors.com
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
Temperature. Taste. Transport.
Hydroflask, more than just a water bottle.
www.hydroflask.co.nz
Top NZ made health supplements delivered straight
to your door, with same day dispatch.
www.supps.nz
This small, friendly family-run company is based in Lake
Tekapo, New Zealand, specializing in guided outdoor
adventures throughout New Zealand's Southern Alps.
www.alpinerecreation.com
The place to go for all the gear you need whether you're skiing,
snowboarding, hiking, biking or just exploring.
www.thealpinecentre.co.nz
Gear up in a wide selection of durable, multifunctional
outdoor clothing & gear. Free Returns. Free Shipping.
www.patagonia.co.nz
With 22 locations around NZ
we’re one of the largest car
rental networks in the country.
www.rad.co.nz
Fast nourishing freeze dried food for adventurers.
www.backcountrycuisine.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
Your adventure travel specialists, with over 20 years
experience! They live what they sell.
www.madabouttravel.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
The only baselayer
you'll need. 5 x
warmer than a
traditional baselayer
www.zerofit.com.au
Bobo Products, a leading importer and distributor of snow
and outdoor products in New Zealand.
www.bobo.co.nz
NZ world class climbing centre.
Your climbing experience is at
the heart of what they do. They
provide trained and competent
professionals that are psyched
on climbing and passionate
about supporting others.
www.northenrocks.co.nz
Purveying the finest singleorigin
roasted Espresso
and Filter coffee in NZ since
2013 for you to enjoy at
home or work.
www.redrabbitcoffee.co.nz
10% discount on coffee use
ADV10%

Tokyo, the selfie city
JAPAN: a country of contrast
In James Clavell's book ‘Shogun’, one of
the characters explains how the Japanese
have three hearts: ‘one they have in their
mouth that they show the world, one in
their heart that they show their friends and
family and a third that is deep in their soul,
they show only to God alone’.
Shogun is the story of John Blackthorne,
an English sailor who was shipwrecked
in Japan in the 1500s and must quickly
come to terms with the unique challenges
of Japanese culture. Now, we were not
shipwrecked, we were there by choice,
but the culture was still a shock - well, less
than a shock, more of a confusion that
takes some getting used to.
We were on our way to Club Med Sahoro
to ski, and we stopped off in Tokyo for
three days. We had done our research
and knew what to expect, to a degree.
When you think of Japanese people and
the Japanese way of life, you think of a
controlled, polite, historic, and ‘cultured’
destination. I was expecting geisha girls
in kimonos shuffling down the street, but
I wasn’t expecting city life on acid. Tokyo
is a bigger-than-life, anime, sign-flashing,
sound-blaring cacophony of light and
sound that assaults your senses twentyfour
hours a day, seven days a week.
In a freezing 3 degrees, young women
were dressed as schoolgirls in miniskirts
and high boots; and there were people
outfitted as rabbits and mice. Every
wall seemed plastered with the same
humongous boy/girl K-pop band.
Tokyo is a massive sensory overload; a
city crammed with people and noise, yet,
in all the chaos, there was a politeness
and a sense of calm and safety that I
had never felt in a big city before. It is
entertaining, if exhausting.
"TOKYO IS A MASSIVE
SENSORY OVERLOAD;
A CITY CRAMMED
WITH PEOPLE AND
NOISE, YET, IN ALL THE
CHAOS, THERE WAS
A POLITENESS AND A
SENSE OF CALM AND
SAFETY THAT I HAD
NEVER FELT IN A BIG CITY
BEFORE"
However, amongst the chaos lies some
really tranquil places, such as the Shinjuku
Gyoen National Gardens, a surprising
haven in the midst of the bright lights and
high rises.
Getting around Japan most people use
the immense train system. To describe it,
imagine you had a large piece of paper
and tipped a bowl of spaghetti onto it,
that is what the local train map looks like:
hundreds of intersecting lines, hundreds
of trains and then thousands of people in
neat, well-ordered lines waiting to board.
Once you find the correct train, on the
correct platform and stand in your neat
shoulder-to-shoulder rows, the train doors
open, and the culture switch is flipped
off. In a land where personal space and
politeness count for everything, sitting
down with another man standing in front
of you with his genitals less than 20 cm
from your nose is a little discomforting; the
politeness and personal space rules on
the train go right out the window.
We caught the train out to Kamakura one
day and arrived in what seemed another
world. The towering hotels and office
blocks were replaced by ancient trees and
equally ancient temples and a calmness
and serenity that you associate with every
big cathedral in the world. Here, there
were women dressed as geisha girls (we
later found out most were tourists), people
praying, people talking in hushed voices
and oddly what seemed like every other
person taking selfies.
This is the ‘three-heart’ aspect of Japan.
On the one hand, you have a crazypacked
environment where people are
ant-like, frenetic and crazy. Then, there
is this other incredibly calm and cultured,
peaceful environment which seems just a
short distance away.
The first few days in Japan left me
bewildered and confused, sure I was
entertained and impressed but as we
headed out of Tokyo towards Hokkaido
you had a defined feeling that this too
would be a whole new experience.
We felt the change as soon as the plane
landed, we had gone from Tokyo city life
and landed in an airport covered as far as
you could see in ‘Yuki’ - snow.
Less than two hours from the airport is
Club Med Sahoro, located in the southern
part of Central Hokkaido, 167km east of
The bright lights of Tokyo
84//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//85

Incredible food, zero crowds and an enclosed gondola all make for an amazing Club Med experience
Sapporo and 130km from the New
Chitose Airport. After the hustle and
bustle of Tokyo, arriving at Club
Med Sahoro felt like “coming home”.
The resort sits a little way up the
mountain and is ski-in ski-out right
from the back door. Access to the
lifts (and then back again to the lodge
at the end of the day) is via beginner
trails that meander through woods,
somewhat like a scene from Narnia.
This was much more our style.
We arrived at Club Med, or “the
Club” as it’s fondly known and were
greeted by one of the on-site resort
team known as the G.Os, (the
acronym comes from the French
word, “Gentil Organisateur” basically
translated to Gentle/Gracious
Organiser in English). There job is
to keep you entertained with the
numerous programs and activities
available and we came to appreciate
that the G.O.’s are the heart and soul
of the Club Med experience.
Our G.O. happened to be a fellow
Kiwi from Nelson. She was excited
to meet someone from ‘home’ as
for some strange reason, Kiwis do
not make up a large percentage of
the visitors to Club Med Sahoro. I
wonder if it has something to do with
our Kiwi 8-wire mentality; we think
we can pretty much do anything,
so the last thing we seek is an allinclusive
package deal that is Club
Med. We soon learnt that having that
mentality means the Kiwis are really
missing out.
Arriving in the late afternoon, after
going through the “orientation” and told
all the things that were available for us,
we headed to the bar for drinks. This
was our first introduction to the “Club
Med” way of life. Firstly drinks at the
bar are free. Yep, and not just a house
wine or beer, and people will talk to
you. Actually, that’s all part of the
experience of going to Club Med.
We sat down in the bar, drinks
in hand, looking out to the snow
covered hills when a group of young
men (early 20s) sat down and asked
us how we were enjoying ourselves.
Surprised that these young men
would be interested in what us oldies
were up to, we mumbled something
about only just arriving and took a
sip of our drinks. Turns out these
young men were some of the G.O’s
and they chatted away, asking us
questions about where we were from
and telling us all about the fun we
were going to have during our stay.
The staff were all incredibly articulate
and friendly, and hailed from a range
of countries. Some worked at Club
Med as a full time job, others had
“summer jobs” back in their home
countries and spent the winters
working at Club Med Sahoro.
Our first night in the bar was followed
by dinner in the restaurant. We had
the choice of joining a bigger table
or sitting on our own. We were
somewhat reluctant to just “barge
in” on someone else having their
dinner so we opted for a table for
two. The restaurant offered a buffet
with a huge range of options from
traditional Japanese food, Thai,
Chinese, European and more, all
delicious, as well as a traditional
nabemono (hot pot) restaurant that
you needed to book.
After dinner there was a show. Now
I have to admit I’m not overly keen
on the hoopla that goes with this
type of performance entertainment,
but I learnt that it’s all part of the
experience. It’s easy to sit back and
let the action happen around you but
you gain so much more by stepping
up and getting involved.
" IT’S EASY TO SIT
BACK AND LET THE
ACTION HAPPEN
AROUND YOU BUT
YOU GAIN SO MUCH
MORE BY STEPPING
UP AND GETTING
INVOLVED."
The following morning we were keen
to get out for our first taste of the
mountain. The Sahoro Express, one
of the ski lifts, only opens on the
weekends and as it was a Sunday
we knew we only had the day to
ride that terrain, so that’s where we
headed first. Although Sahoro was
not having great snow conditions
that week, due to the fact that the
Express had not been skied on
all week, there was still plenty of
powder pockets to be found and
some very steep terrain. Probably
not the ideal starting point but it was
either today or never.
We had a great morning skiing
through the snow laden trees on
the upper reaches of the Sahoro
Express. We said again and again
you could see what huge potential
the terrain had if there was new
snow. However, we made the best
we could of what was available.
One of the great things about skiing
in Club Med was you just had to ski
back to the resort at lunchtime. You’d
leave your boots in your locker, slip
on your shoes and head into the
restaurant for lunch before reversing
the steps and heading back out to
the slopes for the afternoon.
Skiing the trees off the Sahora Express
86//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243

"CLUB MED SAHORO, ACCESS
TO THE LIFTS (AND THEN
BACK AGAIN TO THE LODGE
AT THE END OF THE DAY) IS
VIA BEGINNER TRAILS THAT
MEANDER THROUGH WOODS,
SOMEWHAT LIKE A SCENE
FROM NARNIA."
CLUB MED SAHORO QUICK FACTS:
The resort offers 16 included activities :
• Group ski lessons for kids
• Group ski lessons for teens
• Group ski lessons for adults
• Magic Carpet
• Group Snowboard lessons
• Four fitness lessons (high intensity,
yoga, soft training and cardio
room)
• Entertainment
• Swimming pool
• Aqua classes
• Sauna
• Badminton
• Squash
• Table tennis
• Card games and more
• Kids clubs
and 6 on demand activities:
• Spa
• Kasumi Waterfall Trekking
• Tomraushi Onsen
• Private ski lessons
• Private Snowboard lessons
• Pool table
Ski and snowboard gear available to
hire or purchase
88//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//89

Club Med is a slick operation in every
way. We have skied at numerous places
around the world but the ease of skiing at
Club Med is hard to beat. The “bracelet”
around your wrist gives access to both
your room and ski locker so you are
never searching for your keys.
Like other Club Med properties, the
holiday is all-inclusive; accommodation,
entertainment, activities, lift passes,
meals, snacks, beverages, as ski and
snowboard lessons every day. Kids'
programs are also included (for children
over 4), and child care for 2-4-yearolds
is available, so parents can relax
knowing that the kids are cared for.
We were travelling as a couple, but
this was a family resort and as one of
the friends we made explained, that for
them, with two young children, Club Med
was a real game changer. We met and
made friends with a range of parents
who had children as young as 4 in ski
school and child care, and the kids
loved it, which meant the parents loved
it. They were free to have their time on
the slopes and all were excited to meet
back to have dinner and play with their
children at the end of the day, a perfect
scenario.
As many of the snow-based resorts in
Japan, Sahoro is a resort in the truest
sense; there is no village or other
restaurants or shop's to explore. The
club is self-contained, however, you
can get a taxi to the nearby town of
Shintoku, which is about 30 mins away.
Sahoro Ski Resort is medium sized with
only 610 metres of vertical (420-1,030m)
and 21 marked runs. The resort is all
below the treeline, with runs through
the forested mountain slopes. Of the
21 trails, 8 are rated for beginners, 3
Our ski instructor, Craig and our amazing group who became fast friends at Club Med Sahoro
" WE WERE LUCKY TO GET THE SAME
INSTRUCTOR FOR MUCH OF THE WEEK, A
SCOTTISH GUY CALLED CRAIG... I LEARNED
MORE IN A WEEK FROM CRAIG THAN I HAVE
DONE IN THE LAST 10 YEARS. "
for intermediates, and 10 for advanced
riders (black runs). The lift network is
well developed with a gondola, 3 highspeed
quads, and 5 other lifts. Advanced
skiers and snowboarders will prefer to
get off-piste, when there is snow. (Club
Med even offer ski lessons to ski trees).
Japan is renowned for amazing dry
powder. With an average snowfall of
8.7m, we had heard the stories and
seen the pics. But no one controls the
snow gods, and on our arrival, even
though there was an abundance of
snow, it wasn’t dry, and it wasn’t powder.
We were simply a little unlucky in
getting warm weather, with just some
snow flurries, but the upside is we
experienced a week of sunshine, rarely
spoken about in Japanese ski chats.
After exploring the mountain on our own
for the first day we decided to join one
of the lessons (all inclusive). For two
and a half hours each morning and two
and a half hours every afternoon, you
could meet up with a group of skiers of
a similar level and your instructor would
take you out for the day.
We were lucky to get the same instructor
for much of the week, a Scottish guy
called Craig. He had spent 13 seasons
working on Turoa, in Ohakune, NZ so
we considered him n honorary Kiwi. He
was a super nice guy and extremely
knowledgeable. I thought that with an
offering of free ski instruction at all
levels, the expertise might be a bit ‘thin’.
This was not the case, and I learned
more in a week from Craig than I have
done in the last 10 years.
Not only do the instructors teach all day
but there commitment to Club Med does
not end there. You’ll find the instructors
(and all the G.O’s) in the restaurant
each night, having dinner with different
guests before joining in the evening
entertainment. Craig did a great rendition
of air-guitar for one of the evenings
shows, while others sang, danced and
even performed aerial shows.
Historically, Club Med carried a young
person’s vibe tag, but our experience
was that it was superb for families and
involved hassle-free skiing. Their focus
was clear, for everyone to have fun, and
they achieved that every moment of
every day at every level.
The best part about any place you visit
is the people you meet but that’s not
always easy to do; we tend to keep
to ourselves a little. However, Club
Med forces you into a more interactive
environment that you cannot help
but embrace. As a result we met and
became friends with a wide range of
people, young and old, some with
families, some couples and some
travelling on their own.
Whether it was at our ski lessons, over
lunch or dinner, in the bar or after skiing
at one of the evening ‘shows’, you were
encouraged to get involved and interact
with one another. We found the more we
embraced the Club Med experience, the
more we got involved, the more we got
out of it. As we have said in Adventure
over and over again, when travelling,
it is less about where you are, but who
you are with and who you meet and we
met some incredible people.
Despite my early reluctance we found
we embraced the Club Med feel, the
family feel, and the camaraderie, and
by the end of the week, we had made a
group of long-lasting friends, all enjoying
the experience that Club Med offers.
We will be back...
Groomed empty runs with Club Med in the background
90//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//91

"CLUB MED SAHORO WHEN THE
SNOW IS FALLING..."
92//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//93

COOK ISLANDS: exploring the depths
Beachfront and garden Bungalows Onsite restaurant and bar
Rarotonga’s stunning southern coast Set on one of the best beaches on the island
" AMONG THE
COOK ISLANDS,
RAROTONGA AND
AITUTAKI EMERGE
AS THE PREMIER
DIVING HUBS."
Cook Islands archipelago is comprised
of 15 serene islands embraced by
vibrant coral reefs. These islands are
nestled some 900 kms distant from
Tahiti, French Polynesia, and 800 kms
from the Kingdom of Tonga, and about
the 3 hour flight from Auckland.
Among the Cook Islands, Rarotonga and
Aitutaki emerge as the premier diving
hubs. Rarotonga, the lively capital with a
populace of 14,000, exudes a colourful
charm. Its bustling daily markets, vibrant
community events, and diverse dining
and entertainment options create a
perfect blend of relaxation and activity.
Unlike its counterpart, Aitutaki, situated
to the north, Rarotonga experiences
cooler temperatures due to its higher
altitude, with occasional dips in the
afternoons. However, Aitutaki boasts
more consistent temperatures, albeit
slightly higher, accompanied by
increased humidity.
Both islands offer a similar array of dive
sites, with Aitutaki boasting marginally
better water temperatures and visibility.
Best Time to Visit the Cook Islands:
Nestled in the Southern Hemisphere, the
Cook Islands enjoy summery conditions
from October to March, maintaining
a pleasant temperature range of 25-
29°C year-round. However, visitors to
Rarotonga during the winter months
should anticipate occasional rain and
cloud cover, necessitating additional
layers. Water temperatures vary
throughout the year, with Rarotonga's
waters typically cooler at around 24°C.
Under the surface:
Exploring the underwater realm reveals
a vibrant tapestry of marine life typical of
the South Pacific. Expect to encounter
a kaleidoscope of colourful fish species,
including unicorn fish, butterflyfish,
snappers, groupers, and angelfish.
Divers may also spot green and
hawksbill turtles, white-tip sharks, moray
eels, and eagle rays.
Rarotonga's dive sites feature
breathtaking drop-offs adorned with an
intricate mosaic of coral formations in
hues of pink, purple, red, and yellow.
Each dive unveils a new coral landscape
with diverse fish and pelagic species.
Moreover, the Cook Islands offer prime
opportunities for humpback whale
sightings between June and September,
particularly near Aitutaki's marina and
Rarotonga's Trader Joes dive sites.
W W W . P A L M G R O V E . N E T
ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//95

PREMIER DIVE SITES IN RAROTONGA:
1. Ednas Anchor: Nestled between coral
outcrops, the anchor of the schooner Edna rests
at approximately 23 meters, surrounded by a
vibrant array of reef fish. This serene dive offers
excellent visibility and leads to Rarotonga's
mesmerizing drop-off.
2. Mataroa Wreck: Deliberately sunk in
December 1990, the Tongan sailing vessel
Mataroa now serves as a thriving marine
habitat. Divers can explore the fragmented
wreck, adorned with flourishing flora and
inhabited by lionfish and various reef dwellers.
3. Rutaki Passage and Drop-off: This narrow
vertical canyon boasts Rarotonga's most
impressive drop-off, attracting experienced
divers seeking encounters with tunas, white-tip
sharks, and barracudas. Strong currents add to
the thrill of exploring this dynamic underwater
landscape.
4. Bluewater Diving: Dive into the depths of
the ocean and encounter an abundance of
marine life drawn to Fish Aggregating Devices
(FADs). These artificial structures create thriving
ecosystems, offering glimpses of tuna schools,
barracudas, mahi-mahi, and diverse shark
species at depths ranging from 10 to 50 meters.
96//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#243

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