Complete the crossword and rearrange the letters in the blue squares to spell out the hidden solution. Send your answer, with your name and address, by March 21, to: wildernessword@lifestylepublishing.co.nz, or WildernessWord, PO Box 251566, Pakuranga, Auckland 2140. All correct entries go in the draw to win one of five Norsewear prize packs worth $96 – see prize details below.

Across

8. _____ Ice Plateau – isolated glacial plateau in West Otago (7)
9. In front of others on tramp (5)
10. Modes of transport for wilderness trails (5)
11. Mountaineer’s carabiner (7)
12. Small flittering bird seen in NZ bush (7)
14. Sleep _____ the stars – in wilderness without tent! (5)
16. Strenuous outdoor adventures can push you to the _____ (5)
18. Towards side sheltered from wind (7)
20. Synthetic water-repellent fabric that is permeable to air and moisture used in outdoor clothing (4-3)
21. This describes animals in wild state (5)
22. Bold environmental idea might win NZ WWF Conservation Innovation _____ (5)
23. Lake in Nelson Lakes National Park (7)

Down

1. _____ Sound – longest and deepest fiord in South Island (8)
2. _____ Valley – tramping area in Makarora region of Mt Aspiring National Park (6)
3. ____ out – supplies with all necessary gear for outdoor adventure (4)
4. Introduced mustelid animal that is pest in NZ (6)
5. Natural tunnel within solidified volcanic flow (4,4)
6. What non-waterproof tent did in rain (6)
7. Slight competitive advantage in triathlon, eg (4)
13. _____ sickness – result of oxygen deficiency that can affect mountaineers (8)
15. Seaweeds that sometimes wash up on NZ beaches (3,5)
17. Coarse grass found on sand dunes (6)
18. State of indulgent comfort – probably not what DOC huts offer! (6)
19. River in Kahurangi National Park that drains into Golden Bay (6)
20. Small biting fly (4)
21. Manages to get everything necessary into pack (4)

Hidden solution: NZ lowland forest tree (9)
February’s hidden solution: Old Ghost Road

Prize details

Each Norsewear prize pack contains an Aspiring Beanie made from heavy gauge wool and a micro fleece inner, lightweight possum gloves, a chilly carry bag and a classic blue Norsewear thermos.