Two participants share their walking journey, why they got into Walk1200km and what they have gained.
A life-changing event
Nick McFarlane
Signing up to Walk1200km was a no-brainer for me. I’ve always been aware of the benefits of walking – it’s pure gold for the body, mind and spirit – though I knew I needed more than just good intentions to stick with it. It’s all too easy to lapse when you don’t have a goal. Walk1200km provides that; there’s no escaping the progress tracker!
Last year my wife and I completed the challenge together but it was difficult with our conflicting schedules, so I did it on my own in 2025. We still walk as a family. Some of my best memories growing up were of hiking in the bush. We’re giving our boys that. Apart from all the benefits of being out in nature and exercising, I like that we really connect away from the constant distraction of devices.
I’m not exaggerating when I say Walk1200km has changed my life. I’m much fitter and the extra activity keeps my weight in check. My role as an electrical tutor is largely sedentary and I’ve found regular walking has positively influenced both my physical and mental health. I’ve noticed my ability to bounce back after a decent hike has increased. What used to ‘kill’ my legs no longer does. I’ve become much more confident and adventurous. The longer solo hikes have shown me I have the resilience to be alone, and have redefined what I believe I’m capable of. I now have the North–South Track in the Kaimai Range and Te Araroa Trail in my sights! Mentally, I’m calmer. Walking gives me space to reflect on all aspects of my life and problem-solve. I’ve noticed that it can also really aid creativity; I’ve come up with some great ideas while walking.
I tell everyone in my circle to consider Walk1200km – that they have everything to gain and nothing to lose except the soles off their shoes. I don’t have to say much because I guess I’m walking proof that it works.
Use it or lose it
Fungi hunter Anne Simmons and her dog Guinness
I discovered Walk1200km when looking for a training tool to prepare for the Rakiura Track. The challenge has got me seriously hooked now – much to my dog Guinness’s delight.
I’d neglected my walking until about five years ago. Though I tramped heaps from an early age and into my thirties, I’d moved on to other sports, especially scuba diving, which I paired with another passion, underwater photography. When overseas travel became difficult during the pandemic, I switched to photographing fungi, snails, flowers and birds. This involved having to seek them out on foot, which required me to become fitter and more agile.
Walk1200km has pushed me to get out regularly and extend myself. Ultimately, my aim is to return to tramping so I can roam further to see and capture more of the small world. Guinness and I have been on the challenge for nine months, and, much to my surprise, we’ve already reached over 2400km and we might just manage a third 1200km by year’s end. We will see.
I may be fitter and have greater endurance, but that doesn’t mean I necessarily walk any faster. Looking for fungi means slowing your pace. When on a mission, I prefer walking solo with Guinness as I feel guilty if I hold people up.
I do walk with people too, including husband Eric, who has become re-immersed in hunting. It’s nice to share experiences. I also walk with a friend who’s coming with me to Rakiura. It’s a buzz watching her gain confidence hiking with a pack.
An unexpected spinoff of Walk1200km is that I’ve become stronger all round. It’s helped me in my work, which is physically demanding. Then there’s the relaxation and enjoyment that comes with being in our great outdoors.
I’d encourage anyone, whether urban walker or mountaineer, to join Walk1200km. Walking costs nothing and we can tailor the challenge to our own particular circumstances. I think most people would be amazed how quickly they can build up the kilometres. At 62, I find the motto ‘Use it or lose it’ truer than ever.
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