I have recently decided to take up hiking — years of trail running are taking their toll and I need a new outlet to satisfy my need for adventure.

I’m in the midst of planning my first ‘big’ hike which I plan to do in a few weeks across the Tongariro Crossing here in New Zealand.

I enjoyed this piece full of great advice — I especially like the idea of bringing something with you to celebrate once reaching the summit, a tip I plan to follow.

Thank you for sharing your experiences, reading of your adventure has me even more excited now as I prepare for my own.