Without the support of the brands on these pages, there would be no Walk1200km. They are as enthusiastic about the challenge as you, and are hand-picked to enhance your walking and ensure you reach your goals. 

Footwear partner: Aku

AKU is an Italian footwear company based in Montebelluna, the heart of the Italian sports footwear region. For more than 40 years it has been making footwear in its own facilities in Italy and Romania for people who live, work and spend time in the outdoors. In order to reduce its environmental impact, the brand focuses particular attention on the durability of its products. 

“Aku has high-quality, comfortable footwear for all walkers, no matter their experience or where their walks take them. We’re proud to support your Walk1200km goals, one step at a time.” 

– Hamish Pirie, Aku distributor

Shop the AKU range at www.gearshop.co.nz

Sock partner: Bridgedale

Bridgedale makes premium socks that’ll keep your feet warm, comfortable and blister-free even after another huge day on the trail. Bridgedale has socks for walking, hiking, trekking, mountaineering, trail running and everyday use, as well as waterproof socks.

“Partnering with Wilderness on Walk1200 has been a no-brainer for us. It offers fantastic synergy with Bridgedale’s ‘Screens Down #SocksUp’ campaign, encouraging people to improve their health and mental wellbeing by getting active and into the outdoors. And why not do that with comfortable, blister-free feet throughout the entire 1200km!” 

– Nic Burgess, brand manager 

Find out more about Bridgedale at www.ampro.co.nz.

Retail partner: Further Faster

Further Faster has been a go-to outdoor shop in Christchurch for the past 10 years. People come from all over New Zealand and the world, seeking premium gear from local and international brands along with the knowledge and experience the staff provides. The team comes from a wide range of adventure backgrounds and are excited to help you find the right gear for your Walk1200km journey!

“Walk1200km is a great way not only to explore the natural world but also to motivate and inspire yourself and those around you to achieve something incredible! We love it when people come into the shop to buy gear for a new challenge or adventure, so we can get them kitted out correctly and share our advice and stories with them and offer our support and good vibes! Good luck, team!”

 – Rocky, co-owner

Visit Further Faster at their Christchurch store or shop online at www.furtherfaster.co.nz.

Pack partner: Big Agnes

Big Agnes packs include an entire collection from daypacks to large-capacity multi-dayers. The packs are made from a combination of recycled and durable materials and all feature a modern shape with interior and exterior storage features that can be adapted to a user’s needs. 

“Big Agnes is proud to support participants on their Walk1200km journey. Big Agnes packs are made sustainably and with durability and ease of use in mind and will comfortably hold all you need to achieve your distance goals – no matter if you do day walks or multi-day tramps.” 

– Hamish Pirie, Big Agnes distributor

Shop the Big Agnes range at www.gearshop.co.nz.

Breakfast partner: Yum

Nelson-based Yum is an award-winning food company specialising in nutrient-dense breakfasts that taste amazing, provide sustained energy and are good for the planet. Their breakfasts include craft granolas, an epic pancake/waffle mix and Bushline Breakfasts – an instant, nutrient-dense breakfast for the outdoors in earth-friendly plastic-free packaging.

After taking part in Walk1200km in 2024, Yum founder Sarah Hedger wanted to support others in their quest for Walk1200km. “It’s an incredible initiative that can empower and improve the life of anyone, at any age. We wanted to support and help you feel amazing, healthy and strong for your walks. Like walking, choosing a healthy, balanced breakfast can make you feel better immediately. We salute you and are thrilled to be a part of your Walk1200km journey!” 

– Sarah Hedger, Yum founder 

Find out more about Yum at www.yumnz.co.nz.

Camera partner: Panasonic Lumix

Lumix specialises in powerful, compact cameras with substantial zoom range that are ideal for Walk1200km participants. 

“Many of our cameras are rugged and weather-sealed, and specially designed to go anywhere and work in all conditions – which is why we’re proud to support you on your Walk1200km journey. There is a Lumix model to suit your needs and to capture your journey, and especially your #microchallenge accomplishments, in the highest quality. Good luck to all participants this year.” 

– Andrew Reid, Panasonic New Zealand Ltd 

Find out more at www.panasonic.com/nz.

Food partner: Back Country Cusine

Wherever your Walk1200km journey takes you, Back Country Cuisine can provide the fuel needed to keep going, to keep discovering, to keep adventuring.

“Getting outdoors and exercising in nature is good for us, especially with our busy modern lives. That’s why Walk1200km is a great initiative – it’s helping people to get outside more and get fitter. At Back Country Cuisine, it’s our mission to make it easier for people to achieve their outdoor goals, and that’s why Back Country Cuisine is proud to support Walk1200km.” – Tony Caudwell, general manager 

Find out more about Back Country Cuisine’s range of meals at www.backcountrycuisine.co.nz.