1. We asked the team at Further Faster in Christchurch which Great Walks they’d done, and what tips and gear they would recommend.

From left to right:

Julz: Hasn’t managed to get a Great Walks booking, her dates are always full… for now!

Tip and gear: If you can’t get in, don’t discount all the other great tracks we have! Investing in a great tent like the Sierra Designs High Side 1 means you can explore some of the lesser-known parts of Aotearoa.

Morgane: The Milford is on her wish list because she’s a bit crazy about Fiordland!

Tip and gear: Because the Great Walks have such great facilities you can pack lightly. The Aarn Pace Magic 30 or 40 is great for this and has been designed with fast-packing or packing light in mind.

Matteo: Has done the Abel Tasman Coast Track and the Tongariro Northern Circuit

Tip and gear: I prefer not to wear heavy hiking boots – the trails are so well maintained that I’ve been sweet in a trail running shoe like the La Sportiva Karacal.

Nat: Has raced and fast-packed several Great Walks – her fave is the Paparoa Track.

Tip and gear: Bring lots of snacks! Because most of my Great Walks have been fast packing or trail races I’ve found the Mountain King Trail Blaze poles have been awesome!

Rocky: Has raced the Kepler Track.

Tip and gear: Pack a great waterproof shell like the Montane Phase Lite. It’s perfect for summer outings on the Kepler because it still might rain!

Senka: Which Great Walk hasn’t she done!?

Tip and gear: I love wearing Injinji toe socks! As someone whose toes can rub together and blister, the individual sleeves for each toe prevent this and add more moisture-wicking – yay! They pair comfortably with jandals if you don’t want to carry slippers or booties for the hut.

Dan: Loves a Great Walk – like the Heaphy!

Tip and gear: Do the Heaphy with friends but start from different ends. Meet in the middle, share a can of wine and then swap keys (important: don’t forget to swap keys!). I like the Aarn Featherlite Freedom for the extra capacity it gives me to help with the kids gear and to take some luxuries – like the wine.

57A Buchan St, Christchurch P: 03 338 1774 www.furtherfaster.co.nz