Walk1200km is your walk – it’s individual, bespoke, unique, and you can make it what you want. Here are some ideas for walking with a purpose.

Get a trapline

Predator control groups are on a nationwide mission to make Aotearoa predator free and return the bush to its endemic species, including birds, bats, frogs, wētā and other insects. This is a great motivator. You can contribute by walking a trapline – and watch the kms add up! predatorfreenz.org

Ditch the car

New year, new challenge – why not reduce your emissions while you’re elevating your health and counting the kilometres? Or if you already use public transport, get off a few stops early. And don’t let the rain stop you – recent research shows the increase in negative ions in the air after rainfall is great for your mood. So is not being stuck in traffic and saving money – and the planet. Check out Walk2Work: livingstreets.org.nz/walk2work

Fundraise for a cause 

Walking is a great way to create awareness of a cause and involve your friends and community in generating funds for such things as cancer research and mental health. Walk1200km has partnered with the Mental Health Foundation again in 2024 and you can fundraise for them while completing the challenge. A project like this helps to strengthen your resolve to achieve your personal goal of 1200km. Check out the Mental Health Foundation: movefor.mentalhealth.org.nz/signup and select Walk1200km from the drop-down menu.

Be a tidy Kiwi

This is a rewarding sub-challenge: take a bag for rubbish along and improve a walk’s quality for yourself and others. Beaches, estuaries, riverside walks are obvious places to do this and you’ll develop an eagle eye for plastics. The kilometres will tick by and you’ll set a wonderful example. Check out Keep New Zealand Beautiful: knzb.org.nz

Support a friend

If you know someone who’s apprehensive about walking – whether it’s the distance, they’re recovering from an illness or they just need a nudge – inspiring a buddy is not only big-hearted, it’s a strong motivator for you to lead by example and stick to your plan. 

Double the distance

So you knocked off 1200km last year and you’re up for a bigger challenge? Or perhaps you walk every day already and the distance isn’t a big deal? Try doubling the kilometres, or set a goal like only including tramps or off-road walking. Some people walk every street in their city, or make a cafe their end goal. It’s your challenge!