Some of New Zealand’s most beautiful outdoor experiences are closer to home than we think.

The Waikato River Trails are a perfect example, offering 104 kilometres of walking and cycling through native bush, along quiet stretches of river and past fascinating hydroelectric history. Having ridden the entire trail and walked almost all of it, I’ve come to appreciate the variety of experiences this wonderful network offers, whatever your pace or level of adventure.

One of my favourite sections runs between Arapuni Dam and Jones Landing, where towering cliffs reflect in still water, swans glide past with their cygnets, and kingfishers dart along the riverbanks.

Add the century old Arapuni Swing Bridge and the remarkable history of the dam and powerhouse, and you have a little adventure that doesn't require travelling far from home. Join me as I explore why sometimes the best discoveries are right on our doorstep.

Think you need to be super fit before you start hiking? Think again. The truth is that hiking fitness isn't built in a gym or achieved overnight. It's built one walk, one hill and one adventure at a time.

Whether you're returning to the trails after a break or taking your first steps into the outdoors, there are simple ways to build strength, endurance and confidence without turning your life upside down.

In this article, I share the lessons I've learned from thousands of kilometres of hiking across New Zealand and beyond, along with practical tips to help you prepare for the trail.

You'll discover how to train for hiking in a way that fits real life, so you can spend less time worrying about whether you're fit enough and more time enjoying the journey. 🌿🥾