In 1998, Ana Terry and Jackie Winters were tramping in the heart of Kahurangi National Park. Conversations ranged while they tramped the mountains and valleys. Jackie stated that after she died, she’d like a hut built in the mountains.

Twenty-five years later, following Jackie’s death, Ana received a call from the estate lawyer with the news that her friend’s will included a bequest for the building of ‘a hut in a high lofty place where solitude prevails’. Ana was named as the person to bring that lofty wish to life.

That was the ‘moment of conception’ for the new four-bunk Brass Monkey Hut that now sits high in the ranges of Lewis Pass, nestled in a spot on the Main Divide where New Zealand’s east and west meet. In our May issue, Wilderness writer Guy Frederick visits the new hut.

Missed Friday’s feature? High Court action asks Minister of Conservation to explain surprise land decisions, spectacular 189-metre bridge emerging on Hooker Valley Track, the unlikely appeal of barefoot hiking and more news in last week’s The World Outdoors.

For more than a century, Bridgedale has been making outdoor socks for walkers of all types.

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That’s why Bridgedale is a perfect partner for your Walk1200km challenge. Don’t just take our word for it. Hear why some of New Zealand’s leading adventurers choose Bridgedale, too.

Check Wednesday’s newsletter for the results!

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Desmond Scanlon (18) and his cousin Roy Diederich (21) set off up the Ohau River and climbed onto the exposed tussock tops in fine weather. Unable to bypass the Pinnacles, however, they descended into the Waingawa River then retreated. While they were camping under an oilskin sheet somewhere below the summit of Arete, a storm arrived, trapping them for three days. They moved camp to below Dundas Ridge where they huddled in the lee of a boulder for four more days. The boys eventually waded down Ohau River for two days until they met a farmer and were rescued.

Our May 2026 issue is online now and winging its way to subscribers in the post.

Here’s a sneak peek of what's in the issue:

Plus dozens more stories!

This week's photo comes from Paul Richardson. This ‘amazing autumn’ photo is the theme of one of this month’s Walk1200km #microchallenges.

Complete any of the microchallenges and be entered to win over $500 in prizes!

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