After Bryn Heveldt became frustrated with bouncing between multiple browser tabs for maps and weather information when planning an outdoor mission, the freelance web developer decided to create Mapit.nz.

The map combines open-source LINZ map data with weather data from Open-Meteo to provide the foundation of the site. “The weather API is specific to the exact geolocation. It’s surprisingly accurate and detailed,” Heveldt said. Other features include a meal planning tab, a place to store notes and equipment lists.

His favourite feature is the satellite magnifying glass. “It allows you to assess the terrain or find a clearing for camping without turning on entire layers and losing your place on the topo map.”

Also in this week’s outdoor news: The easy Nordic habits that could make your winter more active, The North Face opens new store in Christchurch, Taranaki Maunga summit ranks among toughest days hikes in world and more.

Missed yesterday’s feature? Our gear editor Mark Watson reviews Kathmandu’s new XT 40 designed for ultralight tramping and fastpacking.

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

Launched in early 2025 and still developing, the National Parks and Reserves Lands and Survey Rangers’ Archive is a freely accessible website that preserves the history of rangers who worked across the motu under the Department of Lands and Survey between the 1950s and the late 1980s before the Department of Conservation was formed.

There are more than 2000 original archives, including photographs, personal narratives, documents, management plans and oral histories that trace the evolution of ranger work.

Camp Stream Hut has sheltered musterers and trampers for over 100 years. The original hut was built in 1898. It burnt down a replacement was built in the same style using materials recovered from the fire. Squat, with a steeply pitched roof and clad with rusty corrugated iron, the hut nestles in its tussockland surroundings.

The six-bunk hut is owned and managed by Mackenzie Alpine Trust - Lake Tekapo, who ask for a $10 to the trust in exchange for a night’s stay.

Access is easiest from the south, and if following Te Araroa northbound, it’s the first in a string of historic huts through the Two Thumb Range. The hut is located just a few kilometres south of Te Araroa’s highest point, Stag Saddle (1925m).

We featured this hut as part of our ‘25 huts to visit in 2025’ series.

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