In the outdoors, good judgement is gained through experience, but sometimes that experience is the result of bad judgement. The time you spend in the backcountry builds experience. Every trip you make contributes in some way to your bank of knowledge, skill and thought processes. But unless some of those trips involve challenges – planned or unforeseen […]
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.
The 2026 Wilderness Outdoor Photographer of the Year competition
Otamatapaio Hut, Oteake Conservation Park
Dirt bike trial on Tongariro Northern Circuit gets approval
Why we’re putting on weight
A majestic coastal walk
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