At 1687m, Te Atuaoparapara collects plenty of snow during winter, but in summer conditions the summit is rubble with a sparse covering of tenacious tussock and shrubs.

It’s a rewarding day traverse, and it can also be enjoyed as an overnighter staying at Sunrise Hut or camp nestled beside a tarn at 1580m.

Te Atuaoparapara is one of our 75 Top Trampers’ Peaks. View all the peaks in the list.

Missed yesterday’s feature? Erin Hewetson (Ngāi Tahu) follows in the footsteps of her tīpuna and challenges herself on the Hollyford Track. She finds that even when fully prepared, being adaptable is a crucial skill for travel in the backcountry.

The final part of NZ Mountain Safety Council's six-part series on mental shortcuts – or heuristic traps – explores conformity.

Overriding our own judgement to fit in with a group and prevent conflict can put everyone in danger.

Learn how to identify the conformity mindset in the outdoors, and gain practical tips to avoid this trap.

Watch on YouTube

Brought to you by NZ Mountain Safety Council.

Where are you standing in the image above?

Scroll to the bottom of this email for the answer…

A new 120m suspension bridge across the Whangaehu River opens today, removing one of the longest and most exposed stretches of highway walking on Te Araroa.

The bridge replaces 32km of road walking between Whanganui, Fordell and Whangaehu, much of it alongside SH3, with a new 25km coastal walking route through the Whitiau Scientific Reserve, a nationally significant coastal dune and wetland area at the mouth of the river.

See our list of upcoming tramping events and activities across the motu. If you have an event you want to feature, email the details!

2 Sept - 21 Oct: Women’s Adventure Film Tour 2026

Location: Multiple locations

The Women’s Adventure Film Tour® (WAFT) returns for its eight year, celebrating extraordinary women and their thrilling adventures. Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled showcase of courage and triumph that will ignite your spirit. Don’t miss this unforgettable adventure! More info.

8 Oct: Aarn Pack Party

Location: MD Outdoors, Nelson, 5:30pm

Curious about Aarn Packs? Join us for an evening to discover what makes these unique New Zealand-designed packs so comfortable on the trail. Try on a range of Aarn packs, see the latest models, and get expert advice on finding the right fit. Already own an Aarn pack? Bring it along and ask any questions you have. More info.

10 & 11 Oct: OTNZ River Safety - Auckland branch

Location: Karangahake Gorge

This course is designed for hikers – to help plan for journeys that may involve rivers and bodies of water; to develop river safety skills, including hazard assessment and river crossing techniques. More info.

17 & 18 Oct: OTNZ Canterbury Bushcraft Course

Location: Craigieburn Trails

This course will endeavor to develop your personal practical skills to use in the bush by experiencing the outdoors with qualified instructors. More info.

5 Nov: Learn about the rescue with Westpac Rescue Helicopter 

Location: 17 George Bolt Drive, Lyall Bay, 10:30am

Learn what happens when a PLB is set off, when a  111 call is made. Talk with the crew about what is needed from us when they are responding to a call out. The visit starts with a 20-minute talk from the Westpac Helicopter staff, then an opportunity to  look over the helicopter and talk with the crew.

5 Nov: Outdoor Training New Zealand Auckland Branch meeting

Location: Point Chevalier Tennis Club, Auckland

The Auckland branch of OTNZ has an active committee, a manageable course schedule, and holds two monthly evening meetings to introduce new topics of interest and engage with the wider membership. More info.

7 Nov: OTNZ Canterbury Navigation Course

Location: Awaroa/Godley Head

This course will endeavour to develop your personal practical skills and prepare you for tramping safely in the outdoors, led by qualified instructors. More info.

14 & 15 Nov: OTNZ River Safety - Auckland branch

Location: Karangahake Gorge

This course is designed for hikers – to help plan for journeys that may involve rivers and bodies of water; to develop river safety skills, including hazard assessment and river crossing techniques. More info.

21 Nov: Outdoor Training NZ River Safety

Location: The Willows, West Melton

Rivers are one of the greatest hazards in the New Zealand outdoors - learn how to read a river and where the best place to cross is. More info.

Answer A

Want to receive fewer emails? Did you know you can select the days of the week you receive the Wilderness Daily email? Update your preferences here.