A vehicle losing its rear wheel and dragging its undercarriage along the road sparked the fire that swept through 3000ha of Tongariro National Park last November.

A fire investigation report released under the Official Information Act describes witnesses seeing a vehicle with no left rear wheel being pushed on SH47 by three people.

Specialist wildfire investigator Grant Detheridge-Davies said inspection of the road showed marks consistent with an item being dragged across the surface from about 60m before the specific fire origin area and then on for approximately 320m.

Also in this week’s outdoor news: DOC sees surge in summer visitor numbers across four regions, generous grant to allow more accessibility on West Coast Wilderness Trail, $22k of paywave donations at Punakaiki pancake rocks and more!

Missed yesterday’s feature? Stay dry and comfy with our 2026 guide to rain jackets.

The pack you carry into the backcountry today is lighter, drier and smarter than anything available when Gearshop opened its doors in 2006. That gap – between what was possible and what was available in New Zealand – is exactly why Hamish Pirie started the business.

“We want people to trust the equipment we sell and the advice we give, and for them to have great experiences outdoors as a result,” says Pirie.

Gearshop has won the Wilderness magazine Online Retailer of the Year award twice and took four categories in the 2025 Most Trusted Business Awards, including New Zealand’s most trusted online outdoor and sports shop – all by public vote.

Gearshop is celebrating its twentieth anniversary with monthly giveaways throughout 2026 on Instagram, Facebook and in-store. Visit gearshop.co.nz.

Take a look at this week's most read articles at wildernessmag.co.nz.

Walkers can now reach the popular Packhorse Hut, perched overlooking the rolling hills of Banks Peninsula, via a new track on Tūpari Reserve.

Developed by the Mikimiki Conservation Trust and crafted by volunteers, the single-file Tūpari Reserve Packhorse Hut Track was designed with the contours and gradients of the land in mind.

“You get the best views, it’s not too steep, and you get as much bush cover as possible,” said managing trustee Megan Reynolds.

An easy walk leads you to the modern and spacious 20-bunk Hawdon Hut, situated in a grandiose mountain environment in Arthur's Pass National Park.

The current hut was built in 2007 & opened in May 2008 by former DOC Director General Hugh Logan. It replaces the original Lockwood-style hut, built in 1971, which burnt down in June 2005.

The trek to the hut makes a good introduction to backcountry tramping with multiple river crossings. When the river is running lower, this is an excellent trip for families wanting a weekend escape.

The hut has a woodburner and a radio that is connected to the Arthur's Pass Visitor Centre.

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