Complete the crossword and rearrange the letters in the blue squares to spell out the hidden solution. Send your answer, name and address, by February 20, to: wildernessword@lifestylepublishing.co.nz. All correct entries go in the draw to win one of five Back Country Cuisine prize packs worth $50.

Across
8. Maori name for Great Barrier Island (5)
9. Sheltered area of coast (7)
10. Natural environment of animal in wilderness (7)
11. Description of boggy area of partially decomposed vegetable matter (5)
12. Rear part of boat (5)
13. Far from the _____ crowd – in quiet wilderness spot, maybe (7)
16. _____ beauty – wilderness sight! (7)
19. _____ light – good option for staying in huts and campsites (5)
21. Fissures in earth’s crust through which hot gases can escape (5)
23. Brown _____ – small NZ bird also known as pipipi (7)
24. Frozen masses permanently covering large areas (3,4)
25. Strong and firm like muscles after prolonged strenuous outdoor activity (5)

Down
1. Lake _____ – in Westland Tai Poutini National Park (8)
2. Snow and ice in avalanche area are not this (6)
3. Clip or zip on backpack (8)
4. Natural physical tempo you might settle into while tramping (6)
5. One way to deal with destructive predators (4)
6. _____/Mt Cook – highest mountain in NZ (6)
7. ____ warbler – NZ bird also called riroriro that you might hear in bush (4)
14. Journeys down mountains (8)
15. _____ Saddle – challenging walk for experienced hikers in Fiordland National Park (8)
17. Tubular passageway in underground cave (6)
18. Migratory grasshopper seen in NZ (6)
20. Non-native plants of pea family seen along streams in NZ’s South Island (6)
21. Bridal ____ Falls – common name for waterfalls (4)
22. Length of swingbridge from one side to other (4)

Hidden solution: Place of wilderness beauty set aside for public use (6,7)
January’s hidden solution: Cape Reinga

Back Country Cuisine
From tasty meals to snacks and everything in between, to keep your energy levels up and your adventures wild. Each prize pack contains two dinners, two breakfasts, a dessert and two smoothies.