Complete the crossword and rearrange the letters in the blue squares to spell out the hidden solution. Send your answer, name and address, by March 24, 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 Gasmate Guardian Portable Insect Killer and Lights worth $39.99.

Across
1. NZ freshwater aquatic bird also known as grebe (8)
6. Having skills and competence for wilderness activities (4)
8. Critically endangered NZ nocturnal flightless parrot (6)
9. __ ____ Coastal Track – tramping track in Cape Reinga area (2,4)
10. Main stalk of plant or shrub (4)
11. This describes potentially dangerous outdoor activity (4-4)
13. ‘Wilderness’ magazine boss! (6)
15. Become clogged with gritty mud deposited by river (4,2)
17. In open air – how you dine in wilderness! (2,6)
19. Safety ____ – accepted set of rules for successful wilderness adventures (4)
20. Protective cover for blade of knife (6)
22. Island that is nature reserve off NZ’s west coast near Wellington (6)
23. Units of energy expended on tramp (4)
24. _____ Range – Canterbury mountain range near Craigieburn (8)

Down
2. Changed or evolved to suit environment (7)
3. Deep opening or fissure in earth’s surface (5)
4. Lines on map connecting points of equal temperature at given time (9)
5. Set of gear needed for outdoor activity (3)
6. Outdoor _____ – what to wear in wilderness (7)
7. Emerald _____ – colourful beauties seen on Mt Tongariro (5)
12. Use this to cook food while tramping (3,6)
14. Pests like stoats and weasels are _____ to NZ wildlife (7)
16. Get latest weather ones before setting out (7)
18. Destructive mudflow on slopes of volcano (5)
19. Small group of trees (5)
21. Wearing this reduces loss of body heat in wilderness (3)

Hidden Solution: Essential on cycleway (4,6)
February’s hidden solution: Scenic reserve

Gasmate Guardian Portable Insect Killer and Light
A dual function portable insect killer and light that’s ideal for camping, fishing or when sitting out on the deck.