Complete the crossword and rearrange the letters in the blue squares to spell out the hidden solution. Send your answer, name and address, by September 20, to: wildernessword@lifestylepublishing.co.nz. All correct entries go in the draw to win one of five Back Country Cuisine prize packs worth $50.

Across

7. What creek does during long hot summer (5,2)
9. Hollow rock with cavity lined with crystals (5)
10. Common _____ – sound practical judgement helpful on wilderness adventure (5)
11. Use this to explore underwater wilderness in shallows (7)
12. Pine ones form part of leaf litter (7)
14. Possible wilderness source of nutrition if not of poisonous variety (5)
16. _____ Bay Hut – DOC hut in Rakiura National Park (5)
17. All you need for short tramp of a few hours (7)
19. _____ Coastal Walkway – part of Te Araroa at Whangarei Heads (7)
21. Small rural village at base of 18 Down (2,3)
22. Did up and tightened tramping boots (5)
23. _____ Harbour – enclosed harbour estuary on north-western side of North Island (7)

Down

1. _____ River – river in Westland known as a tahr hunting spot (6)
2. People who faced wilderness challenges in days gone by (8)
3. Poetic word for small land mass in sea (4)
4. Great bargain for outdoor gear! (1,4,3)
5. Intentions ____ in hut – where to record your planned movements (4)
6. _____ Spur Track – walk in Arthur’s Pass National Park (6)
8. Finger _____ – signs on NZ subantarctic islands for guiding shipwrecked sailors to supply depots (5)
13. Cords worn around neck to hold camera, whistle etc (8)
15. Emerge from dense bush again (8)
16. _____ rust – fungal disease now affecting NZ native plants (6)
17. Keep hydrated (5)
18. _____ Range – mountain range separating Waikato and Bay of Plenty (6)
20. Black-and-white toothed whale sometimes seen in NZ waters (4)
21. Stumble on tree root (4)

Back Country Cuisine
From tasty meals to snacks and everything in between, to keep your energy levels up and your adventures wild. Each prize pack contains two dinners, two breakfasts, a dessert and two smoothies. www.backcountrycuisine.co.nz