Opinion

A Night Out on Mt Arthur

Kahurangi Bivvy  A Night Out on Mt Arthur

Defined by its distinctive karst rock formations and sinkholes that remind trampers to guard each step, Mt Arthur lends itself to a photographer’s paradise. Documenting his trek to the peak with camera in tow, Peter Laurenson captures the maunga in all its glory.

Sustainable in Print?

Backcountry Magazine  Sustainable in Print?

In light of climate change, have you ever wondered why FMC continues to print its Backcountry magazine? Backcountry editor, Peter Laurenson, shares FMC's reasons behind the printed version, the steps taken to align with its values of stewardship and environmental protection, and the future of this classic publication.

Hakatere Conservation Area

Forgotten Lands  Hakatere Conservation Area

Despite a plan to upgrade its status years ago, Hakatere Conservation Area has been classified as 'stewardship land' since 2007 after its purchase by the Nature Heritage Fund. FMC President, Jan Finlayson, discusses its natural resources and recreational opportunities, as well as the many special creatures that call this magical landscape home.

Coromandel

Forgotten Lands  Coromandel

While great strides have been taken to restore the native bird population, the future of the Coromandel Forests is less certain. FMC outlines its vision for the protection of the Coromandel Peninsula.

End of the Mountain Radio?

Communications  End of the Mountain Radio?

Satellite based comms devices have largely taken over from the humble mountain radio, but the latter isn't dead yet. There's still several groups of volunteers around NZ who rent out the sets and tune in for the 'sked' each night.  We heard from Hugh Wilde, chairperson of the Wellington Mountain Radio Service to give our readers his take on pro's and con's of some of the gadgetry.

Gwavas Conservation Area

Forgotten Lands  Gwavas Conservation Area

Covering 2,700 hectares of the Wakarara range in Central Hawkes Bay, the Gwavas Conservation Area has been awaiting reclassification since DOC's early days. John Beech, General Committee Member for the Manawatu Tramping and Skiing Club, offers insight into this region's battle for reclassification and greater land protection.

Mavora and Livingstone Ranges, Southland

Forgotten Lands  Mavora and Livingstone Ranges, Southland

Why is land classification important? What are the consequences of classifying an area as a stewardship land as opposed to a national park? FMC Executive Crystal Brindle explains how classification works and champions for the Mavora Lakes Conservation Area and Livingstone Mountains to be awarded the highest tier of protection.

When the kids are very little

Outdoor dads  When the kids are very little

I’m sure that fear of losing the freedom to get into the mountains is common among many keen outdoor parents. But rather than just waiting to see if that perceived ‘fate’ became reality, I proactively decided to adapt to this new life-chapter and embrace the opportunities that it held. 

Thin and Hard

Climbing  Thin and Hard

A winter climb of the south face of Mount Taranaki proves challenging and leaves little room for error. Despite the need to carefully calculate each step, photographer Peter Laurenson still manages to capture spectacular images along the way.

Wilderlife
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