Fifty people cramming into a 16-bed hut, toilet waste spread around a pristine lake, freeloaders – we’ve heard the gripes. When it comes to discussing pressures on the conservation estate, Te Araroa Trail walkers come in for a bit of flak. Is it justified? No, says Te Araroa Trail chief executive Rob Wakelin. “I see […]
About the author
Kathy Ombler
Freelance author Kathy Ombler mostly writes about outdoor recreation, natural history and conservation, and has contributed to Wilderness for many years. She has also written and edited for other publications and websites, most recently Federated Mountain Club’s Backcountry, Forest & Bird, and the Backcountry Trust. Books she has authored include Where to Watch Birds in New Zealand, Walking Wellington and New Zealand National Parks and Other Wild Places. She is currently a trustee for Wellington’s Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush Trust.
The 2026 Wilderness Outdoor Photographer of the Year competition
Otamatapaio Hut, Oteake Conservation Park
Why we’re putting on weight
A lofty location for Brass Monkey
Dirt bike trial on Tongariro Northern Circuit gets approval
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