Cassidy (11) and Barrett Bechtel (8) visited Big River Hut in Victoria Forest Park with their mum Allison. “We were the only ones in the 20-bunk hut but with the fire going, we were nice and cozy,” said Allison.

Joshua Bangs took his son Shaun Wright-Bangs for their first bush camp at Pirongia. “We had fun and learnt some lessons for next time,” said Joshua.

Phil Wickes walked to Mt Aspiring Hut in the West Matukituki Valley.

Louise Inglis climbed Ruapehu’s Dome Ridge on a snowcraft course with Auckland Tramping Club. “I didn’t think I was going to enjoy snow tramping, but I absolutely loved it!” said Louise.

Arlo Lawrence and grandmother Anne paused for a breather on a Palmerston North Tramping and Mountaineering Club trip to Rangiwahia Hut.

Todd Camm walked Te Ara Tirohanga (Rimutaka Trig Track) in perfect weather and had great views down to Lake Wairarapa.

It was a muddy and wet walk to Rerekapa Hut for Katie Brophy (13), Eleanor Raerino (11) and Liam Brophy (10). “The smiles say it all – a well-enjoyed overnighter,” said their grandmother Donna Howe.

Kay Clapperton, Dave Rogers and Jim Walker relished a bluebird morning at Speargrass Hut in Nelson Lakes National Park.

Thomas Chin, son James (5) and daughters Charlotte (3) and Matilda (4 months) were all smiles at Windy Canyon en route to Mt Heale Hut on Aotea Great Barrier Island.

Kathryn Conradson and Paulette Birchfield were happy to reach the summit ridge of Mt Barron, above the Ōtira Valley.