Bracing. Invigorating. Fingers fumbling, nose running like the Waimakariri. Cheeks so cold it’s hard to tell if that’s a smile or a grimace. Breath puffing like clouds from a steam train. Outstanding clarity. Blue-sky days to pine for.

Welcome to winter tramping. It’s fun, trust me. Or better, trust Victoria Bruce, who writes so eloquently about how tramping in the cold season, when frost, snow and short days transform the landscape, is truly something to savour. Told through the lens of a hut-bagging trip in Marlborough’s Leatham Conservation Area, her story emphasises how winter tramping is often less about the destination and more about experiencing the rhythm of icy mornings, careful route-finding, long evenings ensconced in fire-warmed huts, the tranquil quiet and the glory of a perfect blue-sky day. 

Of course, not all winter tramping is lovely. You need to pick your days and plan your route extra carefully. But get it right and you’ll find there is nothing to compare. 

If, over the coming months, you feel less inclined to venture outside, read and re-read Victoria’s story. You’ll be out the door in no time, and thankful for it.