A night on Pureora revealed a different perspective to otherwise familiar landscapes. Photo: Mark Watson

A trail of two islands

April 2026

Read more from

April 2026

While the South Island’s sustained back country tramping is a drawcard for many Te Araroa walkers, this trail veteran found the North Island offers a unique and varied experience of a different kind.

I’d been walking since dawn to escape Auckland’s southern suburbs, and in the late afternoon the route markers finally led me into a reserve of regenerating bush. All day the countryside had teased me with glimpses of something else beyond two days of left and right turns through suburbia. Although I longed for the familiar […]
April 2026

Read more from

April 2026

Mark Watson

About the author

Mark Watson

Wilderness gear editor Mark Watson divides his workdays between graphic design, writing and photography. His passion for tramping, climbing, cycling and storytelling has taken him all over Aotearoa and the world in search of great trails, perfect moves and epic light. He has published four books and his photographs have featured in numerous publications. Especially motivated by long distance travel, he has tramped Te Araroa and cycled from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego.

More From April 2026

More From April 2026

Related Topics

Similar Articles

Busy year for Te Araroa Trust

Hiking the length of Aotearoa in traditional Japanese sandals

Mud, sweat and tears in Longwood Forest

This article is exclusively for Wilderness subscribers

Already a subscriber?  

Subscribe to read this article immediately and unlock exclusive 10-15% discounts at NZ’s best outdoor stores. 
Cancel anytime. 

Website Subscription

Print + Website

1

free articles left this month.

Already a subscriber? Login Now