Deep in the forest of South Westland, there’s a suspension bridge with an odd-looking door. It looks like a portal into another world. The predator-proof door is a relic from the early days of restoring this valley.

Today, both sides of the creek are predator-free and the original 12,000ha zone has grown to more than 100,000ha, stretching from the Southern Alps to the sea.

A mix of boots-on-the-ground work and high-tech AI cameras that can identify predators are key to Predator Free South Westland's success.

But the long-term question being watched around the motu is whether a ‘remove and protect’ model can become a blueprint for the rest of the country.

Missed yesterday’s newsletter? Reach this glorious tarn-side campsite in just four hours.

These three actions will improve your fitness and help you prepare for a multi-day tramp. You don’t have to spend all your spare time training; just fitting some of these ideas into your weekly routine can all add up.

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.

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.

18 April: Film and Panel Discussion - Think Like a Forest

Location: Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū

Join us for this special film screening and panel discussion to learn about the work being done to regenerate our forests. Watch this informative film 'Think Like a Forest' and then take part in a discussion on the 'Recloaking Papatūānuku' project with science advisor David Norton and Simon Millar from Pure Advantage. 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.

2-3 May: Outdoor Training NZ Survival Confidence

Location: Waitakere Ranges Regional Park

This two-day practical course is designed to provide participants with basic bushcraft survival skills (what would be required if you become lost in the New Zealand bush), including survival priorities and building a bivvy. More info.

Answer C - Eugenie Sage

Eugenie Sage is an NZ environmentalist and former Green Party MP. She served as NZ’s 13th Minister of Conservation from 2017 to 2020. During her term, she led the development of the Aotearoa NZ Biodiversity Strategy, established the Jobs for Nature programme, and opened the Paparoa Track Great Walk.

Quiz provided by Pam Hutton/PuzzleBeetle.

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