Last year’s participants share how they have benefitted from doing Walk1200km‭.‬

The daily motivation

The Walk1200‭ ‬challenge‭ ‬gets me out the door on days‭ ‬I’d otherwise stay put‭. ‬It’s my most important daily‭ ‬‘pill’‭.‬

Jason Gurney

Getting to know your neighbourhood

I walk nearly every day but Walk1200km pushed me further, even through post-accident recovery, flu or family commitments. After moving to a new town, walking helped me meet neighbours and explore the area. Tips? Just start!

Andrea Orchard

Walking despite chronic illness

I live with Ankylosing Spondylitis (a type of inflammatory arthritis that causes chronic back pain and stiffness) and other complications. Initially, I really had to push myself to get out for a walk when I was in pain and the fatigue was too much, but I soon realised how amazing I felt afterwards – and that feeling has inspired me to keep going. Now I’ve walked over 1100km and I feel better than ever, and hope to inspire others in similar situations.

Anna Fraser

Walking through life’s curveballs

After back surgery, Walk1200km helped my recovery and reminded me how lucky I am to walk. Even short walks in tough conditions count, proving that every step matters.

Sharon Boulton

Regaining health and confidence

I joined to lose weight and rebuild my mental and physical health. Walking 1600km was a huge achievement for me, given my personal history. I’ll keep walking and join again next year.

Vera Hindrupp

Tracking progress makes it fun

I liked the idea of Walk1200km to get moving more. I built a spreadsheet to track my weekly progress and finished ahead of schedule. Most walks were around the neighbourhood, with occasional serious tramps. Highly recommended for anyone who wants a mix of daily walking and adventure.

John Bush

Healing and recovery

I joined Walk1200km five years ago while rehabilitating a knee injury. Little steps counted – literally, even to the letterbox. The encouragement from fellow walkers kept me moving, and now I’m back to multi-day hikes. It’s shown me the power of determination and the joy of everyday walks. Walk1200km is more than a challenge; it’s a supportive community that inspires you every step of the way.

Alison Silcock

Consistency builds strength

This is my fourth year of participation. The benefits shift depending on life’s challenges, but the motivation to get out and explore New Zealand’s beautiful places is always strong. Whether walking nearby or in scenic spots, it improves health, reduces stress and gives a sense of pride. Walk1200km is simply a brilliant idea – get out, move and enjoy!

Linda Keesing-Styles

Gaining fitness and confidence 

Achieving my 1200km goal gave me the fitness and confidence for multi-day hikes and even a week-long 154km Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. Walking keeps me healthy and opens up new ways to explore the world.

Mary Quin

Consistency builds strength

This is my fourth year of participation. The benefits shift depending on life’s challenges, but the motivation to get out and explore New Zealand’s beautiful places is always strong. Whether walking nearby or in scenic spots, it improves health, reduces stress and gives a sense of pride. Walk1200km is simply a brilliant idea – get out, move and enjoy!

Linda Keesing-Styles

Inspiration through creativity

Through injury, sadness and loss, Walk1200km has inspired me to an ‘I can do this’ attitude. You don’t need to be an Olympian to achieve Walk1200km. You can do this.

Lois Bishop