In this eventful portion of their trip, Emilie once again shows her bravery as she gets stung by a swarm of wasps and takes a serious tumble that requires Victoria to act fast. Amidst it all, this powerhouse team meets new friends and soaks up the magic and healing held within the Richmond Ranges.
Nothing like a pristine, bluebird day in the mountains to beckon all climbers. For Alastair McDowell and Hamish Cumming, it signals that it's finally time to tackle the intimidating northern side of the Mt Rolleston - the Otira Face.
Cleverly using sweaty socks as stockings, Santa drops off presents for Emilie as they celebrate a true backcountry Christmas. And for Victoria, the holiday season evokes some past reminders en route to the Richmond Ranges.
A lack of rope and soft snow pack forces two climbers to weigh their options: build a snow cave for the night or set up an emergency bivouac shelter and call for rescue.
A spring climb of Ringatoto and the east ridge of Tahurangi reminds two experienced mountaineers, Peter Laurenson and Simon Williamson, that there is no room for complacency on the mountain.
"If snow is in condition, it’s a joy. When it’s not, it’s a torment." Peter Laurenson and his mates go off-trail in Nelson Lakes.
Victoria and Emilie continue to explore the many coves and beaches of the breathtaking Queen Charlotte Track, rediscovering the magic of low tide and nature's smallest sea creatures.
Being the sole companion to a seven-year-old isn't always easy for either party. On the start of their South Island trek, Victoria faces some difficult memories from her past and contemplates how much life has changed since her corporate days.
After 44 days of tramping in all weather conditions, Victoria and Emilie celebrate an epic milestone: the completion of the Te Araroa's North Island section.
The 'Big 50' inspires Andy to expand beyond fastpacking and tackle a new type of adventure -- ski touring. After taking an alpine skills course, he and his mates head to Ball Pass in Mount Aoraki.
Do you want to take the next step in volunteering and make conservation a lifestyle? Mary Jowett shares how the 'Adopt a Plot' scheme allows volunteers to take ownership over a plot of land and save its native vegetation without the use of spray.
"I am beginning to see the Trail not just as an act of physical capability, but one of mental fortitude. Endless days of physical discomfort have a way of breaking you down . . ."
An extra rest day replenishes this mummy daughter tramping team. After saying goodbye to new friends, they set off on the next stage of their Manawatu adventure while Victoria contemplates the shortcomings of 'thru-hiking.'
"I'm reflecting on how sometimes I feel my mental illness is due to a lack of mental fortitude, which is unfair given you wouldn't say a person with diabetes or high blood pressure could (or should) just think themselves better."
Victoria and Emilie roll up their sleeves and help restore Stanfield Hut, giving back to the backcountry hut system that has sheltered them along the Te Araroa trail.
With pit stops along the way for homemade cake and ice cream, road walking has its perks. Mother and daughter duo, Victoria and Emilie, continue their journey along beaches and agricultural land, eventually reaching the famous Rescue orange Whiowhio Hut in Palmerston North.
The wettest part of Te Araroa is the paddle down the Whanganui: Victoria and Emilie enjoy the chance to rest their feet and stretch their paddling muscles
Victoria and Emilie brave wild weather and snoring hut mates in their voyage 'round Mt Ruapehu.
Inspiring the next generation: FMC provides free mountain films for school students.
When weather causes plans to change, Victoria and Emilie venture on a side-trip towards Ruapehu. With only a short walk to Whakapapaiti Hut, Victoria takes the luxury of an afternoon to sit and ponder.
A 19-person ascent of Mt Aspiring along with poor visibility? For these experienced mountaineers, it only adds to the thrill of a backcountry trip with good mates.
Gerald Bruce-Smith reports on pest-busting in the South Island’s first national park, Arthur's Pass.
Mother and daughter team, Emilie and Victoria, make the jump from the freedom of Ninety Mile Beach to the rolling agriculture of Kings Country, continuing all the way to National Park.
Uncle Jacko shares creative tips for tramping post-operation and dives into a discussion on tea bags, GPS boosters, and walking sticks.
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