How some participants have walked their kilometres and the benefits they’ve noticed.

‘I’m exploring new paths’

This challenge has given me the motivation to push myself further and explore new paths.  

Having the Walk1200km progress tracker on my fridge has given me the motivation to get out each day and walk. As a result, I am fitter and can go further and this gave me the confidence to try a 50km ultra run. 

Here’s to an awesome 2024!

– Rochelle Flemming

‘I’m walking every day’

It hasn’t been as easy as I thought it would be. My shortest day was 770m and my longest 24km. My monthly tallies have ranged from 64km to 122km.

I’ve gone for a walk nearly every day for a year, and am proud to have made it. I also haven’t had a single day of illness in the whole year. I’m going to chalk that up to all those stress-busting miles under my feet.

I have started lots of challenges and programmes over the years, but this is the longest one, and the one I have actually stuck with. I’ve discovered new pathways, spent early mornings getting strides in at the beach rather than scrolling on my phone, and had some peaceful nights strolling under starry skies. I’ve been entertained by podcasts and long talks with friends, or just let tangled thoughts roam free.

I think every Kiwi should take part in this challenge. Even if you are not physically able to walk 3.3km every day, hopefully, there is an equivalent that is meaningful for you. I’m excited to get my new tracker and start again in 2024!

– Naomi Arnold

‘It’s improved my wellbeing’

I have benefitted so much from Walk1200km just by being outside at the end of a long work day. I am now semi-retired and find walking during the day so wonderful for my well-being. I’m looking forward to doing the 2024 challenge.

– Phillipa Townshend

‘I’m fitter and healthier’

Although I didn’t complete the challenge this year due to the awful weather in Hawke’s Bay, Walk1200km has inspired me to get out and try to walk 3–4km every day. It has definitely improved my overall fitness, health and wellbeing. I will start again in 2024 with the aim this time of walking 1200km!”

– Tina Barton

‘People are noticing the differences in me’

I am fitter, I walk further each day, I no longer notice the hills and I am walking faster. I have lost some weight but, more importantly, I have toned my body and people are starting to notice the differences.

I have enjoyed my walks and have had fun seeking out different trails and tracks to add variety. If you enjoy your walk it is never a chore, so my advice is to vary your route as much as you can and to be present in the moment. Listen to the birds, the water and the wind; smell the salt, the flowers or the rotting leaves in autumn, and feel the sun, the wind or the rain on your face.

– Jenny Christensen

‘Age is no barrier’ 

I am 82 years old and Walk1200km has been a great motivational initiative to get me out exercising. My general health and fitness are so much better because of it.

– Garry Kilgour