Complete the crossword and rearrange the letters in the blue squares to spell out the hidden solution. Send your answer, name and address, by November 20, 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 bottles of Scotchgard Water and Sun Shield worth $23.95.

Across
8. _____ Ranges – block of hilly country south-east of Auckland (5)
9. Australia’s interior wilderness (7)
10. _____ platform – wooden deck at vantage point offering wilderness panorama (7)
11. Top parts of walking poles making grasping easier (5)
12. ___-up – pause during torrential rain, eg (3)
13. Height above sea level (9)
16. Pauses taken during tramp to catch your breath and eat some food (4,5)
19. White___ – broken crest of wave (3)
20. This describes pleasantly warm weather (5)
22. Fly back and forth rapidly like fantails do (7)
23. Personal _____ beacon – wilderness safety device (7)
24. Eastern Great _____ – NZ endangered bird also known as kotuku (5)

Down
1. Australasian _____ – native waterbird that is widely found in NZ (8)
2. Biting one can be a nuisance during outdoor activities (6)
3. Reduced visibility caused by dust particles in air (8)
4. Small device that stops tent guy rope from slipping (6)
5. Adult male deer you might see in bush (4)
6. ___ ___ Lakes – picturesque spot north of Dargaville (3,3)
7. ____ out – makes meagre food rations last, eg (4)
14. Descended vertical cliff using rope (8)
15. Another name for greenstone or pounamu (8)
17. _____ Rapids Walk – loop track at Mt Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park (6)
18. _____ Forest Conservation Area – place with walking and biking tracks in Canterbury (6)
19. Provides delicious dehydrated meal for others, maybe! (6)
20. Beak of bird (4)
21. Glimpse this mysterious creature on Himalayan trek? (4)

Hidden Solution: Band of outdoor enthusiasts! (8,4)
October’s hidden solution: Boardwalks

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