Get out and be active in the North Island

New Zealand’s Get Outdoors Week starts this weekend, so the Mountain Safety Council staff have chosen their top 10 North Island locations for you to get inspired to get out and explore, exercise and breath in some fresh air.

Get Outdoors Week is a national campaign, November 14-22, that encourages Kiwis to get into the outdoors, safely. Take the opportunity to explore your local area and make an adventure of it.

1. Karekare Waterfall: Auckland

   The combination of the beautiful scenery and easy access to these falls makes for a great after work walk. Only 15minutes walk from the beach and plenty of surrounding walking tracks means you can make a trip of it.

2. Puketapu Loop: Napier

   Voted by Lonely Planet as one of the most beautiful short bike rides in the country, the 18km moderate Puketapu Loop is an achievable ride with plenty to see along the way .

3. Kohi Point Walkway: Whakatane 
   

   A walk with amazing views across to the coast and down to Whakatane, the 7km bush-to-beach walk is well worth the three-hour commitment.

4. Kaitake Range: Taranaki 
   

   The lowland coastal forest of the Kaitake Range is quite different from the Egmont National Park offering tracks up to two hours walk or more.
   

Lake Westmere: Whanganui

The wildlife refuge of Westmere Lake offers a rare opportunity to walk among wildlife in their natural environment. This iconic 25minute woodland walk around the lake is a must, but there are many others to choose from.

Lake Westmere, Whanganui

1. Rangatira Point Track: Taupō

   There’s no better way to enjoy Lake Taupō than this easy 1.5hour walk through native bush following the lake’s edge allowing for swimming, fishing spots and picnic.

2. Titahi Bay: Porirua
   

   Explore the rockpools and beaches of Titahi Bay, only a 22km drive from Wellington City and just on the outskirts of Porirua.
   

3. Birchville Dam: Upper Hutt
   

   An intermediate level track in the hills near Upper Hutt, the track through the Akatarawa Forest up to the summit and down to the Birchville Dam boasts views of Upper Hutt city and the 100-year-old dam.
   

4. Turakirae Head Scientific Reserve: Wairarapa

    More of a weekend day trip, the reserve is home to New Zealand’s largest fur seal colony. The 3km walk from the public carpark is an easy walk for the family.
   

5. Mt Kaukau: Wellington

   It’s the most visible high point in Wellington City, so the one hour walk to Mt Kaukau summit is steep in areas but is worth it. Accessed easily by the Khandallah suburb entrance, the track is a great end of day walk.

Mt Kaukau, Wellington

No matter the track, be prepared for anything and pack appropriately. For more helpful guidance and free resources for planning a family outdoor adventure, head to the NZ Mountain Safety Council.

Head to getoutdoorsweek, for more information, and don't' forget to share your Get Outdoors Week adventure to be in to win! #GOWeekNZ @getoutdoorsweek

Refer to the new New Zealand Land Safety Code:

1. Choose the right trip for you: Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
2. Understand the weather: It can change fast. Check the forecast and change your plans if needed.
3. Pack warm clothes and extra food: Prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out.
4. Share your plans and take ways to get help: Telling a trusted friend your trip details and taking a distress beacon can save your life.
5. Take care of yourself and each other: Eat, drink and rest, stick with your group and make decisions together.