We asked participants why someone they‭ ‬care about should Walk1200km in 2026‭. ‬

It introduces you to new friends

To prepare for the Paparoa Track, I started Walk1200km from suburban Hamilton. I walked 4.3km to the nearest lake at the University acknowledging, then meeting, neighbours, students and staff and I now know dozens by name – it’s become my local ‘great walk’. 

Bob Mills

It helps with perimenopause

It is easier to achieve than you think. I did it for the first time in 2025and walked a total of 222 days to achieve the 1200km, eight weeks ahead of the 12 months. It’s motivating, and my perimenopause symptoms have improved since I started. I have walked two half marathons and a few tramps, but most of my walks were done in the streets around my house. You don’t need fancy equipment and you can do it anytime of the day. I plan to do better next year!

Trish Brasell

It’s your challenge

You have heaps of like-minded people cheering you on‭. ‬It’s good for your health‭, ‬both physically and mentally‭. ‬Others’‭ ‬posts encourage you to try something different‭.‬

Karen Sortehaug

It helps you notice the small things

When walking every day, you get to appreciate the flow of the seasons, the way sunset shifts in the sky, the little signs of coming out of winter. Those first daffodils and magnolias are a great mood boost!

Donelle Cheree

It helps busy parents

I have always struggled‭ ‬to prioritise going for a walk as there are so many other things to do as a mum‭. ‬Being accountable to Walk1200km meant I had more motivation to go for a walk‭. I found it incredibly‭ ‬beneficial for my mental health and wellbeing‭.‬

Kate McCutcheon

It’s flexible

You can do it in six months or 364 days – no one is ever going to judge you. You are your own person, doing it your way.

Phillipa Townshend

It helps you to see beauty all around

Walking has helped to save my life. I have gone from not being able to walk and hating it to walking up to 14km and finding joy in my life. I love being in nature and find excitement in hearing a tūī. I have found the beauty in the world around me. It is so nice to see flowers opening, or stingrays feeding as I walk on my local beach. I love watching sunsets and sunrises. I have seen so many new places.

 Dianne Papesch