The cover for the Great Walks Jun-Jul issue has been revealed, showcasing New Zealand’s South Island in all its beauty.
This NZ special features world-famous walks including the Hollyford and Routeburn tracks, which Great Walks tackled back-to-back. Editor Brent McKean says combining the two created the perfect South Island walking adventure.
“If you're going to cross the ditch to try one of NZ’s 11 Great Walks, it seems a shame not to do a couple,” writes Brent. “The Classic Guided Walk combines the Milford and Routeburn tracks, allowing walkers to experience two iconic landscapes in one trip.”
Other Kiwi adventures featured include the Hollyford Track, Queen Charlotte Track and the lesser-known Mt Ruapehu loop walk. The issue also highlights some of New Zealand’s best guided walking operators.
Back in Australia, featured walks include WA’s stunning Cape to Cape Track, the Byron Whale Trail in northern NSW and Tasmania’s rugged Tyndall Range, where writer Julia Patten experienced spectacular night skies during a lunar eclipse and aurora borealis.
The Walksmart section covers alpine walking gear, hiking in your 60s and beyond, and tips on avoiding “alpine divorce”.
Readers are also introduced to one of the judges for this year’s Wilderness Photographer of the Year, presented by Mountain Designs with more than $20k in prizes on offer.
“An award-winning wilderness photograph is one that makes you feel something,” says judge Samuel Markham. “The best images remind us how special and fragile our wilderness areas are.”
The Great Walks June-Jul issue is out next week.