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Long White Gypsy

Discover NZ's best hikes with insider tips crafted by a local, trail guides, and gear advice. Perfect for solo hikers and beginners seeking adventure in New Zealand's stunning wild landscapes.

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Ask me anything (no really!)

Kia Ora Reader. Have you ever heard of an Ask Me Anything (AMA)? An AMA is a meeting where one person opens the floor to any questions from an audience. These sessions can cover a wide range of topics and don’t have to stay on subject. Of course, it’s up to the person hosting to make the rules. They’re usually hosted to help people get to know each other and expand their knowledge or view on a topic. Why am I telling you this? Well, this week I want to host an Inbox Ask Me Anything. Usually,...

Hey Reader. What I really wanted to share with you all this week is a story of my very first time on the TA. (Don't worry, this isn't directly related to my TA 101 series which is currently being broadcasted). It doesn't matter if it's the TA, or the latest Great Walk I've decided to tackle, or an overnight solo trip which is a bit more than what I'm used to. I feel like I need to remind you that I was a newbie once, too (and I'm still learning every day). I was on a TA coaching call a week...

Hey Reader. I want to start this email off today with a quick picture, because it's one of the best pictures I've taken in a while, and basically sums up what I spent last week doing. Here it is: Aurora Australis, captured just south of Tai Tapu, Christchurch. 11 October 2024, 05:22AM. I spent all of Friday (and a good few evenings last week) chasing the latest auroral activity. I have to say, this is hands down one of the biggest perks I'm growing to love about living in Christchurch vs...

AAAaarrrgh!! Something happened with the email I sent you this morning - it ended up going well before it was ready. So the cat's now well and truly out of the bag and the links may not have worked... I'm really sorry about that! Anyway, here is the email that was supposed to go out to you today. I know this won't be for everyone, so click here if you want to opt out of Te Araroa Coaching emails. Hey Reader! [Before we get into it, I almost deleted the opening paragraphs of this email three...

Kia Ora Reader! Welcome to the second instalment of the Winter Tramping Tips Series! If you missed the first instalment last week, we covered my picks of winter clothing and footwear to keep you warm and dry during your winter adventures. If you want to catch up, you can read it again here. (P.s. don't forget, if you'd rather not receive these emails, you can opt out here but still receive my normal newsletters!) In this edition, we're diving into the crucial gear you'll need for winter...

Kia Ora Reader! Ok here we go... the first instalment in my Winter Tramping Tips Series! (P.s. don't forget, if you'd rather not receive these emails, you can opt out here but still receive my normal newsletters!) So many people avoid the trails over winter (especially solo hikers). And for obvious reason! Not only is the weather typically colder and wetter than during the summer season, but many trails are 'closed off' or 'winterized' during these months, shortening the list of available...