NZ Backcountry Miles
Aotearoa New Zealand · Hiking & Trail Running
Authentic trail adventures, shared experiences, and a passion for helping more people discover the outdoors of Aotearoa.
Scroll
Aotearoa New Zealand · Hiking & Trail Running
Authentic trail adventures, shared experiences, and a passion for helping more people discover the outdoors of Aotearoa.
Why NZ Backcountry Miles Exists
I started NZ Backcountry Miles because I genuinely believe that more people should have the chance to experience Aotearoa's outdoors — not just those who already know how. Over time I've seen how much a simple hike can do for someone's confidence, wellbeing, and connection to the land around them.
Too often the barriers are practical ones: no transport, no one to go with, not knowing where to start, or just not feeling experienced enough to try. I've been lucky to find my way into the backcountry and I want to share that with others — no pretence, no pressure, just people getting outside together.
This initiative is driven by passion and community connection, not a business model. Whether you're following along on YouTube, joining a community hike, or supporting the journey — thank you for being part of it.
Transport, experience, confidence, equipment — I help sort the practical stuff so people can just focus on getting out there.
Shared trails create real connections. I believe spending time outdoors together — regardless of background or experience level — is good for everyone.
New Zealand's trails belong to everyone. NZ Backcountry Miles exists to help more people feel welcome, safe, and capable out there.
About
I'm a passionate hiker, trail runner, and outdoor explorer based in Auckland. I've spent years discovering New Zealand's trails — from quiet bush tracks to multi-day alpine routes — and I've developed a genuine love for what the backcountry gives back to you.
As an ultra marathon runner who has completed events like the Tarawera Ultramarathon 102km, I've learned a lot about preparing for and navigating New Zealand's wild places. More importantly, I've learned that the outdoors is far more rewarding when it's shared.
NZ Backcountry Miles started as a personal passion project. Over time it became something bigger — a way to bring people along who otherwise may not have had the opportunity to experience what's out there. No hype, no filters. Just genuine trail experiences, shared with good people.
Outdoor Adventures
I organise two kinds of outdoor experiences — volunteer-led community hikes for people who want to get started, and deeper multi-day backcountry adventures for those ready to go further. Both leave from Auckland, and both are about the experience, not the itinerary.
Not everyone has easy access to the outdoors. Sometimes the biggest barriers are transport, experience, confidence, equipment — or simply not having someone to go with. Through NZ Backcountry Miles, I organise occasional volunteer-led hikes to help people experience New Zealand's trails in a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment. No experience necessary. Just show up ready to walk.
Routes chosen to suit all experience levels. If you've never hiked before, that's completely fine — you're exactly who these adventures are for.
Transport, route planning, safety guidance, and supplies — I sort the practical stuff so participants can focus on enjoying the experience.
These hikes are about connection as much as the trail. People from all walks of life, exploring Aotearoa together in a welcoming environment.
Interested in joining a community hike? Get in touch and I'll let you know about upcoming adventures. There's no cost — just a willingness to get outside.
Join a Community HikeFor those looking to go deeper into the backcountry, I offer customised multi-day adventures across the upper North Island. These involve route planning, logistics support, preparation advice, and someone who knows the trails well. Overnight DOC huts, alpine ridges, and raw New Zealand wilderness — the kind of trip that sticks with you.
Spend a night in a DOC hut. Experience the backcountry properly — golden hour on the ranges, starry skies, and morning mist over the valleys.
I handle the planning, logistics, safety briefing, and navigation so you can focus on the experience. Tell me where you want to go.
Got a specific trail in mind? I'm open to exploring destinations across the upper North Island departing from Auckland.
Enquire about a multi-day adventure. Get in touch with your desired destination and I'll come back to you with options, availability, and what's involved.
Enquire About an AdventureCommunity
This is what NZ Backcountry Miles is really about. Taking people out who haven't had the chance before — watching someone experience the outdoors for the first time and seeing what it does for them.
On this trip to the Pinnacles in the Coromandel, I took someone on their very first hike. The climb is steep, the views are huge, and the hut stay overnight makes it unforgettable. This short captures that experience.
"Sometimes all someone needs is a person willing to show them the way."Watch on YouTube
YouTube Channel
Follow along on every trail. Honest conditions, real route beta, and genuine backcountry experiences across Aotearoa — no hype, no filters.
Support the Journey
NZ Backcountry Miles is built around a passion for sharing Aotearoa's outdoors with others. If you'd like to help sustain this initiative, any contribution goes directly towards making more adventures and community hikes possible.
Get in Touch
Whether you're interested in joining a community hike, planning a multi-day backcountry adventure, or just have a question — I'd love to hear from you.
Fill in the form and I'll get back to you as soon as I can. There are no silly questions — everyone starts somewhere.
nzbackcountrymiles@gmail.com
Follow Along
Find Me Online