It’s January again already – who keeps fast-forwarding time?📆

Before we all abandon any New Year’s resolutions (no judgement here), we just want to    say a massive thank you for being part of our journey and part of the Festival. You’re    the reason we keep putting one foot in front of the other👣.

Now’s the perfect time to put your walking shoes back on, remind your legs what      they’re for, and “accidentally” get back into shape while exploring some brilliant routes – ready for the Festival 🎉.  No gyms, no grunting – just fresh air, good laughs, and km’s that somehow don’t feel like exercise🚶‍♂️.

🎉We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Karen Bowring to the Festival Team, and yes, we’re wondering how we ever managed without her. Founder of Globe Travel, Karen brings a brilliant mix of wit, wisdom, and exceptional attention to detail.

A much loved volunteer and all-round people person, Karen somehow manages to keep things organised while keeping everyone smiling – no small feat. With her travel know-how, sharp eye, and warm sense of humour, we know she’ll be a fantastic addition to the team.

Welcome aboard, Karen – we’re so glad you’re walking this Festival journey with us! 👣✨

Busy brain? Full calendar already this year? This is your official reminder to make some ‘you time’. Better still, invite a friend or two and turn it into a long-weekend📆.

Start by joining the ‘Slow Down You’re Here Walk’ with Mirjam. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a slower pace of walking, deep breaths, and a chance to remember where your shoulders are meant to sit.  When you’ve fully arrived, sink into a soothing Tea experience with Timmy Smith with calm vibes, and that ahhh feeling you forgot you had💚.

🚶‍♀️Still got a spring in your step? Perhaps chose the Northern Walk, leading you to the magical Sacred Blessing Sanctuary Garden. Nature, stillness, and good energy guaranteed🦋.

Or….perhaps the Tunnels to Tides – Stony Batter Heritage walk.  This one is a challenging but hugely rewarding experience and walk👏.

So many wonderful ways to slow down, stretch out, and enjoy. Come for the walk, stay for the feels and leave feeling lighter.

We’re very excited (and just a little bit curious ourselves) to share that we’re participating in the brand new HETA (Hospitality, Event Management, Travel and Adventure Tourism) qualification with Waiheke High School. Yes, brand new. First time ever. Fresh out of the box.

This means surprises are officially part of the programme.  As part of this pioneering qualification, students are stepping into real world experiences and, lucky us, that includes the Walking Festival. What does that mean for you? Well… your walk might be joined by someone unexpected.

Who could be narrating your stroll?
A future eco-tourism superstar?
A quietly hilarious local with excellent route knowledge?
Someone discovering their guiding voice for the very first time?

We can’t say too much (mainly because we don’t know either), but that’s half the fun. We love bringing the learning, growing, fresh energy, curiosity, and enthusiasm to the experience!

So if you notice a little extra sparkle, a new perspective, or someone who’s clearly loving every step, you’ll know why. You’re part of something special, something new, and

this year’s walks may just surprise you in the very best way.

Did you know it’s our 15th Waiheke Walking Festival birthday? That’s right, we’re officially old enough to know better but still young enough to keep walking anyway.

A massive thank you to our Trustees past and present, landowners, business owners, volunteers, Sponsors, Waiheke Local Board and anyone who’s helped along the way and of course our ever-growing walking family. Without your time, support, patience, and occasional sense of humour, this festival wouldn’t have survived year after year. Here’s to many more miles, smiles, and slightly muddy boots!

See you on the island👀