Photo: Michelle Brett
Over 90 species of birds live on this protected spit, including bar-tailed godwits, variable oystercatchers, Caspian terns and black swans.
While much of it is closed to public access, the 11km loop track offers an excellent walk with the chance to witness birdlife and gain incredible views over the windswept sands from the dune tops.
Missed yesterday’s newsletter? We asked hikers which direction they chose to walk TA and why – and what the advantages were.
Quiz
How did Pineapple Track in Dunedin get its name?
A. The spiky tussock along the track looks like the sharp leaves on the crown of pineapples.
B. Hikers used to snack on tinned pineapple when they stopped to rest.
C. Named after an Austrian settler called Franz Pinnapfel who helped to build the track.
Scroll to the bottom of this email for the answer…
Current Issue - April 2026
Should you go NOBO or SOBO on TA, enter the Outdoor Photographer of the Year competition, why autumn is the season for Queen Charlotte Track, mapped trip reports, gear guides and dozens more articles!
SKILLS CHECK: How to prepared for weather changes
Photo: Sarah Nicholson
New Zealand is a group of narrow mountainous islands surrounded by ocean, making ti susceptible to sudden changes in weather, often rain, wind and sun in one day. It means that no matter the duration of your adventure it’s vital to be prepared for – and expect – the unexpected.
Featured Book
Kid Friendly Adventures: Waikato, Bay of Plenty & Central Plateau
Over 250 activities suitable for children, from Port Waikato and Miranda to Rotorua, Taupo and Mount Ruapehu. Outdoor walks, activities, tips and tricks for anyone wanting to get kids into the fresh air.
Subscribers get a 10% discount.
Tramping calendar
See our list of upcoming tramping events and activities across the motu. Have an event you want to feature? Email us the details!
1 March - 30 April: MD Outdoors Adventure Film Festival Submissions Open
Location: Online
Are you an aspiring adventure filmmaker or just love capturing your adventures? MD Outdoors want to watch your stories and follow your journey in the outdoors!
Put together a short (up to 20-minute) film featuring an outdoor pursuit or adventure - whatever that means to you. The shortlisted films will be showcased in July 2026, with screenings in Nelson and beyond in New Zealand. More info.
20 March - 30 April: Waiheke Walking Festival
Location: Waikehe Island
This event runs over two months, featuring a range of community walks and activities you can sign up to, exploring the myriad of tracks weaved across the island, including hikes over private land not usually accessible to the public. More info.
28 March: Hike for a Cure
Location: Lake Hawea Station
Lake Hāwea Station is opening its gates once again for Hike for a Cure 2026 - this time, a rare chance to conquer both Breast Peak and Breast Hill. More info.
11-12 April: Outdoor Training NZ Introductory Bushcraft
Location: Auckland
This course is designed to provide fundamental knowledge, skills and confidence for adults with little or no New Zealand bushcraft knowledge or experience to commence their activities in the outdoors more safely for a one-day or overnight hike. More info.
1-30 April: East Auckland Walkfest
Location: East Auckland
A curated celebration of the region’s most scenic and surprising walking trails. From coastal strolls to countryside rambles, this event offers something for everyone, no matter your pace or passion. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a family with young children, or someone who simply loves a leisurely stroll, WalkFest has options to suit all fitness levels and interests. More info.
Quiz
Answer B - Hikers used to snack on tinned pineapple when they stopped to rest.
Pineapple Track follows Dunedin’s skyline with views of the city and Taieri Plains. It seems the name came in the 1920s when a local grocer used to guide hikers up the track and provide snacks of tinned pineapple. They hikers would often leave the empty tins hanging on trees or fences.
Quiz provided by Pam Hutton/PuzzleBeetle.
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.
