“I feel nutritionally deficient, my stomach a gnawing void after 60+ days of trail walking on meagre rations.” While made worth it by the stunning views and company of friends, Victoria faces the harsh reality of packing another 14 days worth of food and trying to keep a party of two nourished amidst long days of climbing in Nelson Lakes.
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.
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.
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.
"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.'
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.
Victoria and Emilie brave wild weather and snoring hut mates in their voyage 'round Mt Ruapehu.
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.
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.
From the freedom of Ninety Mile Beach to Level 3 lockdown, Te Araroa was already promising to be one crazy adventure.
'Every piece of gear that you bring needs to be examined and optimised. A ruthless and analytical attitude needs to be taken.' Breaking down each component to allow for the lightest and safest travel, Alastair delves into the nitty gritty of fastpacking.
All great journeys begin with the first step. Victoria and Emilie fly over a locked-down Auckland to the top of Aotearoa and begin their adventures on Te Araroa.
How do you choose where to tramp when you have TOO many good choices? In what he calls the 'Starving Donkey Syndrome,' Uncle Jacko discusses the challenges of having the privilege to choose, as well as DIY maps and the best, easy meals to prepare on a tramp.
When it comes to winter tramping, it is especially important to remain flexible when planning dates and routes. Myrthe and her mates find a window of good weather and set out on a weekend mission to Top Hut in Oteake Conservation Park.
Uncle Jacko reveals Darwin's lesser known law, 'Survival of the Unfittest,' and takes the opportunity to have the last word in a hut debate.
After being on his bucket list for 3 years, Andy and his crew finally make it back to Lake Rotomairewhenua (Blue Lake) in the Nelson Lakes National Park, where they fastpack the Travers Sabine Circuit with a side trip to Blue Lake -- all with the goal of keeping their tramping time within 22 hours.
Well known for being one of the muddiest tramps, Brianna Loan learns firsthand the frustration (and fun) of being stuck in the mud with mates. As a recipient of the FMC Youth Award Grant, she and her team share laughs, forge friendships, and together face a crucial safety decision when the weather turns.
For her Duke of Edinburgh Gold Expedition, student Veronica Amey and mates tramp, bike, and kayak the Queen Charlotte Track, where they discover the magic and beauty of exploring their own country.
Uncle Jacko discloses his favourite YouTube videos ranging from 'cooking eggs and bacon in a paper bag' to 'ice axe self-arrest,' as well as shares a heartwarming story about the benefits of hospitality.
How long does it take to trek 120km? Andy Carruthers and his mates complete their next fastpacking mission: Nelson Lakes, 5 passes D’Urville to St Arnaud in 31 hours over 3 days. With a bit of scree surfing, fresh bread and regular dips in the lake, it's nothing the trio can't handle.
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