A new, family-friendly cycle trail has opened in Westport. It’s the first leg of a 55km coastal trail that locals believe will attract a wider range of people than the riders currently flocking to the region’s advanced mountain bike trails. The 5km Pūwaha section of the proposed, 55km Kawatiri Coastal Trail runs from Westport to […]
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
A tale of adventure and tragedy
25 huts to visit in 2025
A lofty location for Brass Monkey
Why we’re putting on weight
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