The U2U Urchin to Umukarikari loop offers plenty of ridge travel and incredible views of TongariroNational Park. Starting at the Umukarikari Track car park, head up into dense native beech to begin this rewarding trek. The well-marked trail is steady but not too steep: over the first 4km it climbs a cruisy 600m. Bellbirds and tūī are […]
About the author
Justin Sprecher
Wilderness newsletter editor and contributor Justin Sprecher is a tramper, thru-hiker and trail runner with a passion for wild backcountry. He has been writing and photographing for outdoor publications for more than a decade and holds a degree in film studies and communications from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. His writing has featured in publications in New Zealand and North America and his films have screened at festivals worldwide.
Trampers say decision to remove beloved hut failed to follow process
Foggy Peak, Korowai-Torlesse Tussockland Park
Roaming the red rocks
2026’s guide to outdoor socks
Subscribe!
Each issue of Wilderness celebrates Aotearoa’s great outdoors — written and photographed with care, not algorithms.Subscribe and help keep our wild stories alive.
